More cooking means more energy usage. Here’s some help managing.

This time of year generally means more time in the kitchen, from baking to family meals. That usually means you’ll be using more energy. So, an increase in your monthly bill is a real possibility. There are a few things you can do to help reduce your energy usage and save a little money. 

• When possible, don’t use the stove. Use the toaster oven, slow cooker or microwave instead.
• Use glass or ceramic dishes in the oven. 
• Make sure the stove burners are clean. 
• Use the smallest pans possible and always use lids. 
• Keep oven door closed – use the light to check on cooking. 

Here’s one of our favorite slow cooker recipes, especially during colder weather.

Chicken Tortilla Soup

Ingredients: 

• 1 onion, chopped 
• 4 boneless chicken breasts 
• 15 oz. can diced tomatoes 
• 8 oz. can green chili peppers 
• 15 oz. can red enchilada sauce 
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 
• 14.5 oz. can chicken broth 
• 1 tsp. cumin 
• 1 tsp. chili powder 
• 1 tsp. salt 
• 1/4 tsp. pepper 
• Bay leaf 
• 10 oz. package frozen corn 
• Handful chopped cilantro 

Directions: 

Place onions in bottom of slow cooker. Layer chicken on top. Add all remaining ingredients except corn and cilantro. Cook 6–8 hours on low heat. Remove bay leaf. Remove chicken and shred. Return chicken to slow cooker. Stir in corn and continue cooking until corn is hot. Add cilantro.