Whether you’re new to the world of plant-based eating or simply looking for healthier food alternatives, you may have found yourself spending much more than usual on your grocery trips. Despite talks of expensive vegan diets, going plant-based can be customised to fit most people’s lives, regardless of income. In addition to fresh whole fruits and vegetables being on the pricey side, there are still quite a few ways you can save a penny. All you need are the right recipes. Remember to always consult with your doctor or nutritionist before starting a new eating plan.
Staying on budget
Believe it or not, sticking to a budget while following a plant-based diet is pretty easy to do. Cheaper than most meat-based foods, shopping for plant-based foods can get a bit pricey, especially when you have no structured grocery list to follow. To avoid falling into that trap, here’s how you can save on your next grocery trip.
- Compare grocery stores– To save big, check your nearby grocery stores flyers for any deals they may be running and compare the prices.
- Buying in bulk– Buying products like BodiCafé’s nuts and seeds range in bulk is more affordable than occasionally buying as it lasts longer and can be kept in a fridge or freezer.
- Try to substitute-Adapt your favourite meat-based foods with plant-based ingredients. BodiCafé’s plant protein range is a great replacement for minced beef and lamb.
Get Creative
There’s no doubt that finding new foods to replace your previous diet can be a bit tedious and may take a bit of exploring. Luckily, most of the ingredients you’ll need are plant-based. Since you’re eliminating meat and dairy from your diet, you’ll have more room to be creative in your fruits, veggies, spices, and dairy alternatives. However, if you’re still struggling to find some yummy budget-friendly recipes, we’ve curated three tasty recipes that are worth trying.
Kidney bean curry
You can honestly never go wrong with beans, they’re affordable, filling and oh-so-delicious.
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- a thumb-sized piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 1 small pack of coriander
- 1 tsp of BodiCafé’s cumin powder
- 1 tsp of BodiCafé’s paprika
- 2 tsp garam masala
- 400g can chopped tomatoes
- 400g can kidney beans, in water
- cooked basmati rice, to serve
To view the full recipe click here.
Tarka Dhal
Enjoy a simple and mouth-watering meal like this dhal with healthy ingredients you probably already have in your cupboard.
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 200g BodiCafé’s brown lentils
- 2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil if you’re vegan
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ¼ tsp BodiCafé’s turmeric powder
- ½ tsp garam masala
- coriander, to serve
- 1 small tomato, chopped
To view the full recipe click here.
Buffalo chickpea tacos
Enjoyed as a snack or a quick meal, this delicious taco is made with whole food ingredients and can be ready in less than 30 minutes.
Ingredients you’ll need
- One pack of BodiCafé’s chickpeas
- red cabbage, for colour and texture
- avocado
- green onion, can be substituted with diced red onion
- cilantro
- corn tortillas
- vegan sour cream
- lime wedges
- Tamari (soy sauce)
- BodiCafé’s garlic powder
- BodiCafé’s onion powder
- BodiCafé’s cumin powder
- BodiCafé’s paprika powder
- Your choice of hot sauce
To view the full recipe click here.
Avoid breaking the bank this season and indulge in healthy, wholesome meals when you try BodiCafé’s plant-based friendly range in your next budget-friendly dish.
