When I was young there were several shows on PBS to teach cooking. As today, many of these used exotic and expensive ingredients. We didn't try many of the recipes. I still love to watch the cooking shows but now I ask "How can I substituted things to make these dishes more affordable?" Can we be more frugal?
The other kitchen challenge is the wide range of gadgets. I go in those stores and think how cool these things are. When I get them home, I find that I use them a few times then they just fill up the middle drawer. Alton Brown set the bar when he refused to have any mono-functional gadgets. So, which tools can multi-function and which really are worth the space?
When you're starting out you only need to cook for one, or two, or your roommates, or guests. Getting recipes to divide or multiply and still taste right takes a bit of practice. Budgeting for the different situations will also effect the end results. Perhaps five "Ramen Nights" are worth one "Steak Night". PLEASE remember to eat a balanced diet, at least within a week. Bad nutrition will cost you more in the long run.
Then there is the whole "You save money by growing your own" situation. It may be true if you live on acres of land and you have plenty of time or help to take care of the garden. Preparing and storing your crop may also be a problem. Let's face it, frozen store brand vegetables are not very expensive and they are more reliable than the home version. Fresh salad ingredients are expensive but you can grow some of them on a patio.
Discerning what is practical for you is part of growing up.
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