There are many delicious and affordable options for food during the winter months. If you are eating on a budget, then consider some of the following ideas.
Soups and Stews
Soups and stews are one of the most cost effective ways to eat during the winter. You can prepare them with many different ingredients, including inexpensive options such as potatoes, carrots, and onions. If you want to make the meal more filling then you can also add meat, but it is certainly not an essential ingredient.
Root Vegetables
There are many root vegetables that come into season during the winter, such as potatoes, turnips, and parsnips, and they are all relatively inexpensive. They can be roasted or mashed as a side dish, or added to soups and stews.
Cabbage
There are many traditional winter dishes made using cabbages. In addition to stuffed cabbage leaves, you can prepare dishes such as coleslaw and sauerkraut, all of which are inexpensive.
Squash
Many squashes come into season during the winter, such as butternut. This inexpensive vegetable can be roasted, mashed, or added to soups and stews.
Legumes
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are not only relatively inexpensive but also a great source of protein. They can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and curries.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a favourite of people in cold climates across the world. It is a cheap and versatile breakfast option that can be prepared in many different ways. Oatmeal can be sweetened with honey or maple syrup, or made savoury with the addition of eggs and cheese.
Ramen
If you are looking for a cheap meal that is easy to prepare then ramen is a great option. You can make it with broths from chicken, beef or vegetable stock, and then add a selection of your favourite vegetables.
Bread
Making bread at home can be very cheap and it is not hard to do at all. Furthermore, it fills the home with lovely aromas that counter the miserable weather outside.
Potatoes
The potato is perhaps the most versatile of vegetables. They can be roasted, mashed, boiled, fried, made into potato chips or French fries, used in soups, and more.
It's important to remember that a balanced diet is important for maintaining good health, so it's a good idea to include a variety of different foods in your meals. Planning your meals in advance and purchasing ingredients in bulk can also help to save money. Also, consider freezing any leftovers, it can be helpful in case of unexpected busy days.
In addition to these food items, you can also try to buy seasonal produce, which are usually cheaper than buying the imported ones. Finally, consider joining a community garden or farmers market and get fresh and low cost produce.
