What Are the Best Foods to Make vs. Buy?

Emma Christensen
Emma Christensen
Emma is a former editor for The Kitchn and a graduate of the Cambridge School for Culinary Arts. She is the author of True Brews and Brew Better Beer. Check out her website for more cooking stories
updated May 12, 2022
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Q: I like the idea of becoming more self sufficient and saving money: growing some of my own fruits and vegetables, making my own sauces and pantry staples, etc. But which things are worth growing or making, and which are better to buy?

Sent by Stuart

Editor: Great question, Stuart! This is something that a lot of us are thinking about and working towards. Another factor to keep in mind is how much time something takes (or that you’re able to commit). I find that time commitment is the downfall of many of my good intentions to make something myself.

Take a look at our Make or Buy series for some good discussions on specific dishes and pantry staples, as well as some other posts we’ve done on the topic:

• Make or Buy?
• Is It Cost-Effective to Make Your Own Pantry Staples?
• DIY Recipes from The Kitchn

Readers, what foods do you think are worth making yourself? What’s better to buy?

Next question?

Related: How to Make Great Granola Every Time

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