Shopping at ALDI is one of my favorite ways to save money on groceries. Not familiar with ALDI? It’s a limited selection grocery store that carries about only about 1,400 products compared to the 40,000+ at most supermarkets. Because their square footage is smaller (about 15,000 sq. feet per store) and they turn over their inventory quickly, ALDI has much lower overhead costs. Luckily for savvy consumers, they are able pass on those savings to us.

Right now I’m at an ALDI holiday test kitchen event at their corporate headquarters in Batavia, IL. Last night we got to taste-test ALDI products against their name-brand competitors and as you can see from the photo above, had lots of fun! We sampled a variety of cheeses, wines and crackers and then had a delicious holiday dinner presented by food stylist Janice Stahl. ALDI aims to not only meet the standards of those name brands, but exceed them. That commitment to quality was evident in the tasting. I consider my palate to be somewhat refined for a frugal foodie, and in almost EVERY case I chose (somewhat surprisingly!) the ALDI product over the more expensive one.

Today, we’re heading to an ALDI store and back to their headquarters for more touring. I’ll be bringing you even more information and tons of photos after I get back. Tweet me with your ALDI questions @frugalbites or post your inquiries on the Frugal Bites Facebook Wall. Or, follow along on Instagram today by following me @kimdanger as well as the hashtag #intheALDIkitchen.