Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliate sites.
Christiane Jory, the author of The 99 Cent Only Stores Cookbook: Gourmet Recipes at Discount Prices , recommends hitting your local 99 cent stores (or Dollar Tree) for cooking up gourmet meals at discount prices.
Q. WHY ARE THE PRODUCTS AT THESE STORES SO CHEAP?
A. Sometimes a simple packaging mistake–say, in the color of the label–can mean a $5 can of artichokes sells for 99 cents. Manufacturers didn’t intend for the items to be sold at these prices.
Q. WHAT ARE THE GO-TO STAPLES YOU CAN PICK UP HERE?
A. Things to make casseroles, stews, and pasta dishes, like rice, spices, and canned tomatoes.
Q. WHICH INGREDIENTS ARE THE BEST BARGAINS?
A. Traditionally expensive olive oil and balsamic vinegar are great finds. (A 17-ounce bottle of olive oil normally costs around $9.50). Sausage is also a good thing to stock up on, because it has a longer shelf life than many other meats.
Q. WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST UNEXPECTED FIND?
A. I’m always amazed at the wines available. They aren’t just palatable; they’re good. At times you’ll find 99 cent bottles that are actually worth $40.
Thanks Amanda Armstrong for this Q and A with Christiane Jory! Go grab your copy of The 99 Cent Only Stores Cookbook: Gourmet Recipes at Discount Prices at Amazon now!
Leave a Reply