Lately, I’ve found myself consumed in what I’m calling my ‘From Scratch’ era—a time of embracing fresh ingredients, slowing down, and truly enjoying the process of creating homemade meals for my family. Cooking and baking from scratch has brought me a deep sense of fulfillment, not only because I know exactly what’s going into my food but also because it’s a tangible way to nourish and care for my loved ones.
Why I’m Cooking From Scratch
Healthier Ingredients – I’ve been swapping out processed foods for real, whole ingredients like fresh vegetables, sourdough starter, and unprocessed pantry staples. This shift has made me feel better, knowing that what I’m feeding my family is wholesome and nutrient-dense.
Saving Money – Buying whole ingredients and making meals from scratch has helped us cut down on grocery costs. Homemade bread, broths, and even snacks are not only more affordable but also taste better than store-bought alternatives. I’ve started to get my vegetables from local farmer’s market stands.
The Joy of Creating – There’s something incredibly rewarding about seeing a loaf of sourdough rise in the oven or turning a pile of fresh produce into a delicious meal. It’s a creative, meditative process that I’ve come to cherish. Even through the fails, the process is so much fun.
How You Can Start Your 'From Scratch' Era
If you’re feeling inspired to start your own ‘From Scratch’ journey, here are a few simple ways to begin:
Save Your Vegetable Scraps – Instead of tossing them, collect scraps like onion peels, carrot tops, and herb stems in the freezer. Once you have enough, simmer them into a homemade vegetable stock or add them with a chicken carcass to create a savory chicken stock.
Start a Sourdough Starter – If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to start your own sourdough journey. I’m just beginning but I’ve already made cinnamon rolls, pizza, and bread (Check out my blog post on how to create your own starter!)
Grow Your Own Vegetables – Many kitchen scraps, like green onion roots, lettuce bases, and potato eyes, can be replanted and grown right in your home… this is an excellent way to stretch your vegetables and save money.
Swap Processed Foods for Whole Ingredients – Instead of trying to overhaul your pantry overnight, start small. Pick one processed item—like store-bought salad dressing or crackers—and replace it with a homemade version.
This journey has been one of the most rewarding shifts in my daily life, and I hope it inspires you to start your own ‘From Scratch’ era. I’d love to hear how you’re incorporating homemade meals and fresh ingredients into your routine! Share your experiences in the comments or connect with me over on Instagram @491westmainst
Let’s embrace the beauty of homemade, together!
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