Her cooking is authentic to her own experience as a first-generation Mexican-American: It's confident and joyful, and each course lands like the first few lines of a story you're going to want to remember.. 10. of 10.

But not all generics are created equal — here’s how to shop smarter when the labels aren’t familiar.. What private label actually means.If you’ve ever reached for a box of crackers with a store name on it — or picked up pasta labeled “Good & Gather” instead of Barilla — you’ve bought a private label product.

These are the house brands of grocery chains: products made specifically for the retailer, often by the same manufacturers behind national brands, but sold under a different name and at a lower price.. On a Budget?This Tool Can Help Plan Your Grocery Lists.The ingredients may differ slightly, and the packaging may be more understated, but for shoppers trying to stretch their grocery budget, the appeal is clear: private label often delivers similar quality for less.

In some instances, it’s not merely a swap — it’s the reason people visit that store in the first place.. From budget backup to grocery mainstay.Once seen as a generic alternative, private label is now a core part of how people shop — and brands are starting to act like it.

Think bold packaging, trend-driven flavors, and clearer sustainability claims..

According to NielsenIQ, 59% of U.S. consumers say they trust store-brand products, especially when those products carry the endorsement of a retailer they already trust.Place an 8-quart stockpot over medium heat and cook the bacon until crispy, about 5 minutes.

Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels.Add the onions, carrots and celery and cook, stirring often, until vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.Add the bell peppers and corn to the pot and cook for 10 minutes, stirring often.