10 Groceries To Buy When You’re Broke

Your diet does not have to be based solely on what you can afford. eating ramen noodles For breakfast, lunch, and dinner

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There are affordable grocery items that you can add to your cart regardless of whether there are unexpected bills or you just want to save money on food. Here are the grocery staples worth stocking up on that won’t break the bank.

Rice

Here’s a secret tip to help you buy rice. Rice is an instant pantry staple that can be used for countless meals. Matt Lopez, the founder of Cook Like a Master. Why? Lopez stated that brown rice makes you feel fuller for longer than white.

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Pasta

You can make many filling meals with pasta noodles, just like rice. Easy meals that can be prepared for the entire family include spaghetti and fettuccine Alfredo. You can also make pasta al limone, cacio epepe or dinner on date night with pasta al limone.

Lopez also suggests investing in whole-wheat pasta whenever possible. Whole wheat pasta, just like brown rice, will keep you fuller for longer than nonwheat alternatives.

Beans

Beans are a great option for grocery shopping. Beans are a great source of protein. You can use beans in many dishes like rice or pasta.

For extra savings, buy dried beans instead of canned. “You can get several pounds [of beans] Lopez stated that you would pay about the same price for one or two cans.

Frozen fruits and vegetables

Ashley Schuering is a blogger Confessions of a Grocery AddictIt is said that frozen fruits and vegetables are generally cheaper than their fresh counterparts.

You get two benefits from buying frozen food. They are equally nutritious and have been prepared for you, making it even easier to cook.

Vegetables and Fruits in-Season

Ask your grocery store for information about which seasonal fruits and vegetables they have on sale. Schuering stated that apples and squash are the most affordable in-season options right now.

The following are other non-frozen vegetables and fruits Schuering recommends buying on a tight budget: Some of these vegetables can even regrow.

• Bananas: Schuering stated, “No matter the season, bananas seem to be amongst the most economical fruits available.” (PS. Keep the peels for banana cake!)

• Greens: Schuering advises that you do your research to get the best deals. Aldi and other grocery stores usually sell a combo bag of spinach, arugula, or large bags of kale for around $3. These greens can be added to soups or sandwiches to bulk up your meal.

• Green Onions This is essential if you make Asian, Indian, and other Asian-inspired dishes. Schuering recommends that green onions be soaked in water. This allows them regrow.

• Celery: “Don’t toss celery leaves, they can double up as fresh herbs in a pinch! Schuering stated. “Celery can also regrow when it is kept in water with new growth.

Rolled Oats

To make your own homemade oatmeal, skip prepackaged instant oatmeal. Instead, buy rolled oatmeal. Oats are great for filling up, and can also be made into flour for baking.

Oats can be used in a variety of dishes, including sweetened versions. Schuering suggests that you make a savory meal of oats with vegetable or chicken stock. Then top them with a jammy eggs, some pan-fried onions and garlic, and drizzle with soy sauce.

Eggs

Although this is sometimes a costly grocery item, it’s usually a cheaper option than free-range eggs. You can shop at your local grocery store for eggs. This cheap protein can be used in every meal, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert.

Whole Tomatoes Caned

You can buy canned whole tomatoes if fresh tomatoes are too costly. Schuering stated that you can add them to soups and chili. This gives you an easy way to increase the acidity of your food and adds a little bit of fresh produce.

Plain Greek Yogurt

Schuering explained that yogurt is her favorite breakfast, lunch, or dinner ingredient. “It’s a great source protein and calcium. It can double as both yogurt or sour milk. A tub is far cheaper than individual cups.

Make it fruity by adding some jam! Mix in some of your favorite jams!

Canned Fish

Now you may be asking yourself how to find affordable meats. Cans of fish are a great way for you to get animal protein if youre not ready to be a complete vegetarian.

Although it is a bit more expensive, it still contains plenty of protein. Schuering shared that she is a fan of olive-oil tuna, flat-packanchovies and olive oil marinated sardines.

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This article first appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 10 Groceries To Buy When You’re Broke