To some, food storage may seem overwhelmingly complex, but Manti resident Debbie G. Harman wants it to seem simple. Harman, 47, is the author of the new book, "Cooking with Food Storage Made Easy" (Covenant Communications, $18.95). Below, Karen Hoag of the Daily Herald talks with Harman about saving -- and savoring -- food.

Daily Herald: Why did you decide to write a food storage cookbook?

Debbie Harman: I've wanted to share my thoughts and recipes for quite a while, but when the economy took a bad turn it seemed like the right time to do a book.

DH: What's your family's favorite meal that you prepare from storage items?

Harman: They love Navajo Tacos made with whole wheat scones and freshly cooked pinto beans.

DH: How do your children respond to food-storage recipes?

Harman: For them, it is just the way we have always cooked.

DH: How do you ease the minds and bodies of people into a change in diet?

Harman: If you are not used to high-fiber foods, it can be dangerous to switch quickly and these high-fiber foods might taste strong for people who are used to a more bland diet.

The best way is to start with a recipe two or three times a week. You don't need to make an announcement that you are going to start using your storage foods. Make the meal special and your family will think that it is and they will look forward to the next time you make it.

DH: Where's the best place to store items in bulk? If you are short on space, where can you squeeze in storage?

Harman: I like to keep my storage down in the basement and just bring one can or one bag up to the pantry as needed. For canned foods, we will usually keep a dozen of each in our kitchen pantry and the rest down in the basement.

There are creative ways of storing food for those who don't have any basement space; under the bed, inside closets, etc. I had a neighbor who put bookshelves on one wall of her dining area. She filled canning jars with wheat and beans and placed them on the shelves along with her bottled fruits and vegetables. It was very country looking and convenient.

DH: How does one get started storing food? What are the most important things to do first?

Harman: Buy a bag of wheat today. Most grocery stores sell storage foods now so it is easy to do. Wheat is the best item to have for your storage because you can do anything with wheat. Once you see how easy that is, buy a few cartons of salt and packages of yeast.

DH: How can people save money when buying food-storage items?

Harman: People think that they can't afford to buy food storage but you really can't afford not to buy food storage. Wheat is about 25 cents a pound, compared to white flour that is 50 cents a pound, compared to baked bread which is $2-$3 a pound. If you want to save money, start storing.

Also, if you have an adequate supply of food, you can wait for items to go on sale and you will not be forced to rush out and buy things as you need them. This also prevents impulse buying, which can ruin the food budget.

DH: How can you be sure you use the items you have purchased to store?

Harman: You just have to start some place. I would suggest starting with bread. Everyone loves homemade bread, even wheat bread. You will feel good about yourself and you will want to try again. It does take a few times to get the feel of making good bread, but you can do it.

If you want to try something quick, try granola bars or muffins. They are always a hit with children. You will eat out less because you know how much money you could be saving and how simple it is to make it yourself. You will enjoy the taste of homemade foods more and so will your family.

DH: Because gardening can be an important part of food storage, can you please share some gardening tips?

Harman: If you are new to gardening, I would suggest starting with plants from a nursery rather than from seed. Make sure the soil has been tilled so it is loose. Follow the directions on the plant stick for your climate.

A garden has to be watered daily and if you don't weed, your vegetable roots will be too crowded to succeed. Maybe the next year, you can try planting with seeds.

DH: I like your quote about preparing for today, not for the end of the world. Could you repeat it and then expand upon it?

Harman: It is natural for us to have a fear of the future. ... I found that as I began storing food, I felt safe. So I continued getting more storage and I also began to use these foods. It was then that I noticed a change. I wasn't afraid of the future. I felt confidence in our abilities to survive on the skills that we had gained.

We learned how to garden and that added to our confidence. I also noticed my desires had become more simplified, I really felt I wanted to live a more provident lifestyle. This is when the thought came to me that we have been asked to store food for today, not for the end of the world.

I have to admit, I still love a bag of potato chips, but it's a good feeling to know that if none are available, I can make my own.