You’ve probably heard the statistic.
More than half of the food produced in Canada is wasted and the average kitchen tosses out hundreds of dollars worth of edibles every year.
Your food scraps don’t need to go straight into your compost - they still have value.
Here are 4 creative ideas for cooking with your food scraps:
1. Beet Greens
Your beet greens are feeling neglected, but you can eat them. They taste similar to chard. Sautee them for an awesome side dish, add to a stir-fry, or most popularly, blend them into a killer green smoothie. Beet greens are super high in vitamin B6 while also providing you with a boost of antioxidants.
2. Shrimp Shells
If you live on the coast like me, fresh seafood is a delicacy. Shrimp shells however are often thrown away. Be creative and turn those shrimp shells into a stock and add it to a summer paella with clams, mussels, and of course, the shrimp!
3. Strawberry Tops
A simple syrup is a great way to use up those strawberry tops. Just add equal parts water and sugar in a saucepan and cook until the sugar dissolves. Add the strawberry tops and let them soak for at least an hour. Voila! The flavoured syrup goes great with cocktails.
4. Broccoli Stems
When most people buy a broccoli crown they often throw away everything except the florets. The stems are tougher and a little less tasty, but for the sake of not wasting food, they can still be used. Cut them up into small pieces and add them to your stir fry with the florets. Believe me when I say no one will know.
Save the food scraps and make a delicious addition to any meal by using a little creative flair. After all, if it saves you an extra trip to the grocery store, by the end of the year, your wallet will thank you.
