Chef Will Coleman’s 6-to-1 Grocery Shopping Method: A Streamlined Approach to Meal Planning

In an era of escalating grocery bills and packed schedules, streamlining the shopping experience has develop into a priority for many. Chef Will Coleman’s 6-to-1 grocery shopping method has gained viral traction as a solution to reduce food waste, save money, and simplify meal planning. This approach, detailed in his cookbook Cart to Kitchen, offers a structured yet flexible system for a more mindful and efficient grocery haul.

Understanding the 6-to-1 Method

Coleman’s method instructs shoppers to purchase groceries based on the following categories: six vegetables, five fruits, four proteins, three starches, two sauces, and one “fun item.” This framework aims to encourage a balanced and versatile selection of ingredients, minimizing impulse buys and maximizing the potential for diverse meals.

Breaking Down the Categories

• 6 Veggies: Focus on versatile, fresh, or frozen produce like onions, leafy greens, and root vegetables.
• 5 Fruits: A mix of fresh produce for snacking and frozen options for smoothies.
• 4 Proteins: Choose proteins for varied meals, such as chicken, tofu, fish, beans, or yogurt.
• 3 Starches: Select versatile grains and/or carbohydrates like pasta, rice, or potatoes.
• 2 Sauces/Spreads: Include condiments that provide flavor, such as soy sauce, pesto, or salsa.
• 1 Fun Item: A treat for yourself or your family to make the shopping experience enjoyable.

Putting the Method into Practice

Before heading to the store, Coleman recommends taking inventory of your pantry, fridge, and freezer to avoid duplicates and reduce waste. Once you’ve assessed what you already have, build your grocery list based on the 6-to-1 method. He suggests shopping in order of the list – produce, then proteins and pantry staples, finishing with frozen and refrigerated goods – to maintain efficiency.

Example Shopping List

Coleman provides an example shopping list to illustrate the method:

• Proteins: Skin-on, bone-in chicken thighs (8), Canadian bacon (12 slices), Salmon fillets (4), Chickpeas (2 cups)
• Fruits: Large red apple (1), Lemons (2), Raspberries (2 cups)
• Starches: Medium yellow potatoes (8), Medium-grain white rice (1 medium bag)
• Dairy/Pantry: Heavy cream (1 pint), Butter (1 stick), Eggs (1 dozen), Coconut milk (2 cans), Self-rising flour (1 small bag), Maple syrup, Cooking oil
• Spices: Black peppercorns, Kosher salt, Smoked paprika, Garlic powder, Curry powder, Dried oregano

Beyond the List: Setting the Intention and Getting Organized

Coleman emphasizes the importance of setting an intention before cooking – whether it’s fueling your body, bringing people together, or simply enjoying the process. He too recommends organizing groceries by recipe upon returning home, prepping ingredients (mise en place), and creating a positive cooking environment to enhance the experience.

Recipe Inspiration

Coleman’s approach is supported by a collection of recipes designed to utilize the 6-to-1 method. Examples include:

• Breakfast: Mini Frittatas with Breakfast Potatoes
• Lunch: Lemony Chicken and Potato Soup
• Dinner: Sheet-Pan Salmon with Cherry Tomato Sauce

Where to Learn More

Chef Will Coleman’s debut cookbook, Cart to Kitchen: The 6-to-1 Grocery Shopping Method Cookbook, features 60 recipes and a 10-week grocery and meal planning guide.

The 6-to-1 method offers a practical framework for simplifying grocery shopping and meal planning, ultimately promoting healthier eating habits and reducing food waste.