From bottled sauces to plant-based milks, supermarket shelves are filled with convenient options—but many of them come at a higher price and include unnecessary additives. The good news? You can make many of these products yourself at home—easily, affordably, and with better ingredients.
Homemade doesn’t mean complicated. It means more control, more taste, and more value—especially when shared with your family or roommates.
🥫 Why make it at home?
Here’s what you gain by making your own staples:
- Save money – most homemade versions cost much less per portion
- Fewer additives – no preservatives, thickeners, or artificial flavors
- Less packaging – better for the environment
- More flavor – fresh ingredients = better taste
- Fun time together – cooking becomes quality time with kids, partners, or friends
🍳 What you can easily make at home
Here are some simple homemade versions of common store-bought foods—plus ideas on how to use them:
1. Mayonnaise
Why: Store mayo often contains preservatives and refined oils.
How:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp mustard
- 150–200 ml sunflower or olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar
- Salt to taste
Whisk egg yolk with mustard, then very slowly add oil while whisking constantly. Add lemon juice at the end.
2. Tomato sauce
Why: Jarred sauces often include added sugar and salt.
How:
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes
- Garlic, onion, olive oil, herbs (basil, oregano)
- Simmer everything for 20–30 minutes
Use it for pasta, pizza, rice, or stews.
3. Plant milk (oat, almond)
Why: Most store-bought versions contain very little actual nuts/grains and added stabilizers.
How:
- 1 cup oats or soaked almonds
- 4 cups water
- Optional: vanilla, dates for sweetness
Blend and strain through a nut milk bag or fine sieve. Keeps for 3–4 days in the fridge.
4. Yogurt
Why: Homemade yogurt is cheaper and you can control the sugar and texture.
How:
- 1 liter of milk
- 2 tbsp plain yogurt with live cultures (as a starter)
Heat milk to 40–45°C, mix in the yogurt, keep in a warm spot (covered) for 6–8 hours. Chill and enjoy.
5. Chocolate spread
Why: You avoid palm oil and high sugar content.
How:
- 100g roasted hazelnuts
- 2 tbsp cocoa
- 1–2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- A little milk or plant milk for texture
Blend everything until creamy.
6. Pasta
Why: It’s cheaper, fun to make, and tastier fresh.
How:
- 300g flour
- 3 eggs
- Pinch of salt
Mix into dough, roll out, cut into shapes. Cook in boiling water for 2–3 minutes.
7. Granola
Why: Store-bought granola often contains a lot of sugar and additives.
How:
- 2 cups rolled oats
- ½ cup nuts/seeds
- 2–3 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- Cinnamon or vanilla (optional)
Mix, spread on a baking tray, and bake at 160°C for 20–25 minutes. Stir halfway through.
8. Vinaigrette sauce
Why: Skip store-bought dressings full of sugar, preservatives, and thickeners.
How:
- 3 parts olive oil
- 1 part vinegar (balsamic, apple cider, or lemon juice)
- 1 tsp mustard (optional)
- Salt, pepper, herbs
Shake or whisk until combined. Use for salads, roasted veggies, or grains.
🛒 Use Promoscore to shop smart
Even when making things at home, you still need ingredients—and Promoscore helps you get the best deals:
- Compare prices on core ingredients like flour, milk, nuts, eggs, oil
- Add items to your favourite list and truck promotions on your favorite products
- Scan products in store to check price history or nearby alternatives
- Add fidelity cards to Promoscore wallet and share it with your household
💡 Tip: Some products (like canned tomatoes, eggs, or nuts) go on sale often—add them to your favorites to grab them at the best price.
👩🍳 Cooking = quality time
Cooking together isn’t just about food—it’s about connection. Involve your kids in making yogurt or granola. Plan a weekend pasta session with your partner or roommates. Homemade food often brings more joy than anything you can buy.