Month two of the Pantry Challenge brought a bit more difficulty, but I’m determined to see this through! I still haven’t written a full inventory list—maybe that’s why I’ve leaned on simple, repeat meals. But no-waste cooking has become second nature, and turning leftovers into something delicious has felt like a fun challenge of its own!
This month, I finally ran out of eggs, and restocking them will take a big chunk of my budget. In the meantime, I’ve been diving deeper into homemade staples, making oat milk, veggie bouillon, brown sugar, cappuccino mix, vanilla extract, and veggie powder from scratch. I’m really starting to embrace the ingredient household mindset, and I love the control it gives me over my food!
Budget Breakdown:
💰 Monthly Pantry Budget: $298 (35% of my normal budget)
🛒 Spending This Month:
- $17.35
- $17.93
- $40.22
Total: $75.50
💰 Budget Left: $222.50
I spent $11.44 more than last month, but I’m still well under budget! My strategy for March is to keep making homemade ingredients, get creative with meal recycling, and prep some freezer meals for easy nights. Onward to Month 3!
➡️ Are you doing a pantry challenge this year? What’s been your biggest hurdle?