We sure do hear a lot about saving money these days. In fact, budget cooking is one of the top food trends for 2009. Whether due to necessity, lifestyle changes, a desire for simpler living - whatever the reason - cheap living is really catching on! The good news is that learning how to cook is actually a key ingredient in this new, more budget-wise lifestyle. When you understand basic cooking method, you are well-prepared to create wonderful meals at home, saving money at the same time.

Buy in Bulk.

If you know how to prepare meat (chicken, beef, pork) quickly and efficiently, it makes sense to buy your favorite meats in larger quantities when they are on sale. Trim and prepare the meat, portioning it into serving sizes. Label and date each package and put each portion into the freezer. Now, when you are ready to prepare dinner some night, just take out a portion and prepare it using your favorite cooking method with your favorite ingredients. This budget cooking tip actually saves time AND money!

Be Happy at Home.

Many believe there is no finer gift to give than preparing somebody a wonderful meal that you cooked yourself. And even a fine meal can still be considered budget cooking. The reason is because in comparison to eating at a restaurant, you are able to enjoy the finest of everything at home (usually) for a much smaller price than a restaurant. You can buy the best ingredients and prepare them in any way that you desire - just the right amount. All of this is possible with some basic cooking methods, creativity and practice. So, instead of buying that restaurant gift certificate - consider instead giving somebody a book, video or advice on cooking. You will be buying them many wonderful meals - rather than just one.

Take the Whole Tenderloin - not just the filet.

One of the nicest steaks you can prepare - especially on the outdoor BBQ grill - is the filet mignon. But even at the grocery store, this premium cut of beef comes at a premium price. So - I've got some great news for you! One of my favorite "chef secrets" is that breaking down an entire filet is actually much easier than most people think. I made a cooking video that discusses purchasing an entire tenderloin (at a much better price than just the filet) and learning how to prepare it yourself. This is still one of my best money saving tips!

The (not so) Obvious:

It might seem obvious, but the best way to save money on your food bill is to eat less, right? Well, the actual truth of the matter is that most of what is cooked is not eaten and goes to waste. A great way to save money is actually to make less - not necessarily eat less. Portioning is a secret of basic cooking method and a great way to save money. This is because most home cooks over-produce food rather than run the risk of running out of food, which everyone hates to do. However, if you portion correctly on the preparation side, you will save money and have another added bonus: proper portioning also ensures you will not have to even worry about leftovers. So you've solved another common budget cooking dilemma - what to do with leftovers? There won't be any!

Once you've mastered a few basic cooking methods and simple techniques for preparing great food, you'll find it to be a very simple and rewarding way to incorporate budget cooking into your frugal lifestyle.