Eating Vegan on a Budget

Here are ten practical tips to help you keep costs low while enjoying delicious vegan meals:
1. Cook from scratch. Ready-made meals and sauces are convenient but expensive. Simple one-pot dishes can be made in 30 minutes or less and save money.
2. Stock up on tinned food. Tinned tomatoes and beans are versatile and form the base of many meals such as pasta, chilli, curries, and soups.
3. Buy dry goods. Lentils, rice, and grains are affordable staples that add protein and variety. Keep large bags in your cupboard for quick, nutritious meals.
4. Buy in bulk. If you have storage space, bulk-buying essentials like grains and beans saves money over time.
5. Choose local veg boxes. These can be fresher and cheaper than supermarket produce, often with less plastic and better seasonal options.
6. Shop around. Prices vary between stores. Compare costs for staples like beans and vegetables to get the best deals.
7. Cook big dinners. Making larger portions reduces waste and provides leftovers for lunch, saving time and money.
8. Make your own dips. Homemade hummus, salsa, and guacamole are cheaper and taste better than store-bought versions.
9. Use frozen vegetables. They are nutrient-rich, affordable, and perfect for curries, stir-fries, and smoothies.
10. Remember the basics. Simple meals like baked potatoes, beans on toast, and tomato soup are cheap, easy, and satisfying.