Times are hard, the cost of living is rising, and so, like many people, I'm trying to cook cheaper meals for the family. I recently did the Piri-piri chicken wing, wedges and corn traybake from BBC Food.

Wings are cheap, potatoes are cheap, and corn isn't crazy expensive. The limes were probably the most extravagent ingredient. Total price, probably £2-£3 per person.

It was great, and the family all enjoyed it. To the point where it would go on the regular rotation even if we had suitcases full of cash stashed around the place!

What are your best economical recipes that aren't just beans, chickpeas, and rice? Meals you actively looks forward to, rather than just a budget way of getting calories inside you?

On my list for the coming week:

  • Carbonara
  • Sausage and mash with onion gravy
  • Chicken Quesadillas
  • Mac and Cheese with salad
  • Spicy black bean tacos
  • Stir-fried tofu
  • Slow cooker leek and potato soup

I can supply recipes for any of these.

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[–] 2 points 9 months ago* (last edited 9 months ago)

Tuna Chilli

  • 1 diced onion
  • Some garlic (fresh or lazy)
  • 1 tin of tuna in oil….ideally a block or steak tin option.
  • 1 tin of tomatoes (I get full and chop with scissors)
  • A few small fresh chilli’s, chopped small.(I like the long skinny ones)
  • Good squidge of tomato paste.
  • Preferred spices/herbs

I pop the tuna out as a tin shape block into a frying pan and try to sear a bit on the bottom/sides etc
Add the onions fry till done, add garlic
Add the tomatoes, tomatoes paste, chillies and and herbs seasoning etc.

Leave it boil down till it’s not too wet, I prefer it quite a dry chilli.

I usually eat it with rice or pasta.

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