Times are hard, the cost of living is rising, and so, like many people, I’m trying to cook cheaper meals for the family. I recently did the Piri-piri chicken wing, wedges and corn traybake from BBC Food.
Wings are cheap, potatoes are cheap, and corn isn’t crazy expensive. The limes were probably the most extravagent ingredient. Total price, probably £2-£3 per person.
It was great, and the family all enjoyed it. To the point where it would go on the regular rotation even if we had suitcases full of cash stashed around the place!
What are your best economical recipes that aren’t just beans, chickpeas, and rice? Meals you actively looks forward to, rather than just a budget way of getting calories inside you?
On my list for the coming week:
- Carbonara
- Sausage and mash with onion gravy
- Chicken Quesadillas
- Mac and Cheese with salad
- Spicy black bean tacos
- Stir-fried tofu
- Slow cooker leek and potato soup
I can supply recipes for any of these.
For cheap ingredients, don’t forget to pop into your local supermarket near closing. You’ll find a lot of fresh things like veg and bread will be reduced down to almost nothing.if your lucky you can score a cooked rotisserie chicken.
Meals based on pasta and rice will be filling and cheap.
Soups are a great way to get nutrition on a budget and shouldn’t be overlooked. Theres a reason soup kitchens are a thing.
Don’t forget to take into account cooking costs. Make a large batch of something and portioning it off in a freezer. Also heating in a microwave is ofern cheaper every wise than a stove or oven.