Here are some budget-friendly recipes that are easy to make and delicious!
1. Vegetable Stir-Fry
Ingredients:
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Optional: garlic, ginger, or any leftover protein (chicken, tofu)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic or ginger if using, then add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in cooked rice and soy sauce. Cook until heated through.
2. One-Pot Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (any type)
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Optional: spinach or any greens
Instructions:
- In a pot, combine all ingredients except the greens. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked.
- Stir in greens until wilted. Serve warm.
3. Chili
Ingredients:
- 1 can beans (kidney or black beans)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- In a pot, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened.
- Add beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes. Serve with rice or bread.
4. Egg Fried Rice
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (frozen is fine)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan. Scramble the eggs and set aside.
- In the same pan, add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for a few minutes.
- Add cooked rice and soy sauce. Stir until heated through.
- Fold in the scrambled eggs and garnish with green onions.
5. Potato and Leek Soup
Ingredients:
- 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 leeks, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: cream or milk for richness
Instructions:
- In a pot, combine potatoes, leeks, and broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Blend until smooth. Add cream or milk if desired. Season with salt and pepper.
These recipes are not only budget-friendly but also easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Enjoy cooking!