NOT JUST BEANS
By Tawra Jean Kellam
50 YEARS OF FRUGAL FAMILY FAVORITES
Self-Published - 2001
Spiral Bound
Cookbook

Reviewed by Nancy Mehl for MyShelf.com
Buy a Copy

After years of searching for the "perfect" cookbook, I've finally found it. NOT JUST BEANS is a compilation of recipes and money saving hints that should be a staple in the kitchen of anyone who is looking for frugal recipes that are simple to make and easy to afford. Author Tawra Kellam feeds her family on approximately $125.00 a month and the recipes are "not just beans."

This book is full of cost cutting wisdom in many areas - not just in the kitchen. Valuable advice is sprinkled throughout this well constructed book. Kellam grew up in a single parent home. Her mother raised two teenagers on only $500.00 a month, stretching their food budget with inventive and delicious meals. Her efforts inspired Kellam to use her mother's knowledge for her own family. Armed with lessons learned early in life, Kellam and her husband paid off $20,000 in debt in five years time on an income of $22,000.

One of my favorite main dishes is the slow cooked roast. Two ingredients added to an inexpensive piece of meat create a main dish that could easily be served to guests. I've made this twice, and my family loves it! The Mexican chicken is also a real winner. When I read the recipe, I wondered why I'd never thought of the combination of salsa and chicken before. The Mexican hamburger casserole was another favorite.

For anyone looking for fast, economical recipes - this is the book you've waited for. It contains everything from soup, main dishes, desserts, beverages and breads, (and a few bean dishes, too!) as well as super hints, interesting tidbits, and appealing illustrations. The recipes are so easy to follow that teenagers will have no problem cooking meals that the whole family will enjoy. I highly recommend NOT JUST BEANS. It could become your favorite cookbook!

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Nancy Mehl is the author of Graven Images and Sinner's Song.