How to celebrate on a budget and have a spectacular feast

LUTHO PASIYA

ON THE evening of Friday, April 21, Muslims around the world will be getting ready for the Eid al-Fitr celebrations that mark the end of the month-long fast of Ramadaan.

For many, it’s a time for sharing, coming together as family and friends, and feeling the powerful strength of community – especially through food. But with food prices on the rise, many people will be looking for cost-effective ways to celebrate.

Here are four ways to stretch your rand.

Plan ahead

Decide now what food you want to serve, and budget accordingly.

This will allow you to prioritise what you want for the day and resist the temptation to buy unnecessary items.

Shop in advance

When you see specials on items you need for your planned meal, buy them. You can cook them in advance and then freeze them. This will help you to spread the costs over a couple of weeks.

Grocery items on special

Be on the lookout for items that have been reduced. Many retailers will reduce the cost of the item because it is out of season.

Check the kitchen

Plan your shopping list and meals and check what you have in the kitchen before heading out to buy your groceries.

Buy in bulk

This can significantly reduce costs in the long run, though the upfront payment may be a little more than usual. But if you are planning a large feast, then buying in bulk would probably be the best action plan.

Be in the know

You need to research the discounts the different South African retailers have and then compare prices. Once you have compared the prices, you can decide where to purchase your goods.

Bring and share

If everyone contributes, it can ease the burden on just one person or family having to dig deep. Someone can be put in charge of starters, two to three people in charge of mains, and someone in charge of desserts. That way everyone gets to contribute.