So I recently came across the 6 to 1 grocery method and I’m super excited to introduce this method to you all and the recipes I come up with.
What’s the 6 to 1 method?
The 6-1 grocery method was created by Will Coleman, a social media influencer and chef who shared this strategy to promote intentional and mindful grocery shopping while emphasizing the importance of saving money and minimizing food waste.
The concept is simple.
- 6 veggies
- 5 fruits
- 4 proteins
- 3 carbs
- 2 sauces
- 1 something special for yourself.
As soon as my friend told me about this I pulled out my notebook and got to work! I’m queen of repurposing food. But I’m terrible at managing my grocery runs and how much I spend each time. So this challenge is perfect for me as I try to tighten up my spending in certain areas.
What I Picked Up For The 6 To 1 Method
Veggies (6)
- Onion
- Garlic
- Mushrooms
- Green Onions
- Cilantro
- Zucchini
Fruit (5)
- Pineapple
- Lime juice
- Tomatoes
- Bell peppers
- Avocado
Protein (4)
- Shrimp
- Ground Turkey
- Greek Yogurt
- Eggs
Starch/Grain (3)
- Rice
- Pasta
- Bread
Sauces (2)
- Soy sauce
- Marinara Sauce
Extra (1)
- Colby Jack Cheese
We ended up spending $74.58. This was the least amount of money we spent at the grocery store in I don’t know how long. We typically spend between $150-$200 and i usually find myself at the grocery store 2-3 times a week. I know, it’s bad. So you already know, I was up for the challenge.
NOTE: I did buy more than one of a vegetable or fruit because it was either on sale OR because one for the whole week wouldn’t last. And I’m also not counting olive oil or seasonings that i use to make the meals because I already have them in my house.
I need help choosing fruits and veggies
No worries, here’s a list of fruits and veggies that are PERFECT for this challenge
Veggie Options
- broccoli
- asparagus
- kale
- spinach
- cauliflower
- onion
- garlic
- zucchini
- squash
Fruit Options
- mango
- pineapple
- peaches
- apples
- tomatoes
- bell peppers
Please note: I’m not counting seasonings or olive oil as an ingredient because I’m assuming you have some sort of oil or seasonings in your pantry. Use what you have, The goal of this is to limit what you spend at the grocery store and get intentional about the items you get. We’re learning to maximize.
Throughout the next week I will post what I made with these ingredients. Stay tuned, you’re in for a treat! Please keep in mind, I am not counting seasonings or oil, as those things are already in my home.
Stay tuned, xoxo!
My Thoughts About the 6 to 1 Method:
While the 6 to 1 method serves as an excellent guide for mindful spending and intentional purchasing, I found that at times it felt a bit restrictive, almost like being on a diet. We managed to keep our grocery spending to $74.58, but we also enjoyed a few meals out during the week.
I want to emphasize that the 6 to 1 method is a fantastic and fun challenge, but don’t hesitate to tailor it to your preferences. It’s a great tool for ensuring a variety of fruits and vegetables, but if you have a larger family or want to reduce eating out, consider adjusting the protein choices or expanding the variety.
I encourage you to try the method, enjoy the challenge, but feel free to make adjustments that suit your lifestyle. Let it be a tool that works for you, not a rigid rule that confines you.
Happy shopping and eating!
xoxo!
