Little bits can go a long way

by Sandy Prater
(Georgia, USA)

Ever got down to that last little bit of cereal or chips and couldn't figure out what to do with them? Not enough to enjoy by themselves, these little bits and pieces usually just end up crumpled and tossed into the trashcan.

Instead, you'd be surprised how both can be incorportated into everyday meals.

Sugary treats - Coco sweetened cereal, leftover cookie crumbles, fruity loops or bits...all of these can be saved in small plastic containers and then be incorporated at a later date for ice cream or yogurt toppings. In fact, a lot of name brands are putting out yogurt with crumbled up bits of Oreo or granola. And that wonderful Mexican fried ice cream you've experienced a time or two? Yep...that's right. A lot of restaurants skip the frying altogether and just roll a hard scoop of vanilla in some crushed cinnamon cereal. Save separately (if you have a couple of favorites) or mix together (if the flavors complement).

Savory goodness - My favorite cereal happens to be original flavored sunchips. I love having a handful tossed into my lunchbag. When I get to the crumbles at the bottom, instead of throwing them away, I crumble and incorporate them into a meatloaf. Breadcrumbs make up any difference, and the finished product is delicious. A friend of mine does the same with her tortilla chip leftovers and ends up making a Mexican meatloaf. Just be aware that using salted chips will require you cut or omit salt from your recipe. The cereals aren't left out of this one either. My grandmother use to make oven baked "fried" chicken using crushed up corn flakes. I didn't have a chance to get the recipe from her before she passed, but the internet is full of corn flake chicken dish ideas.

Bon Apetit!