We set out to create wholesome meals costing less than $10. The ground rules were that the meals be clean-plate-club delicious and healthful but not boring. Also, wherever we could, we'd buy food that was organically produced. Being on a budget doesn't mean we can't support ethical food production.
One caveat to this 10-buck meal plan: We're assuming you have bare-bones basics of salt, pepper, olive oil, a half-empty jar of mustard, and such.
Approach groceries as you would shoes: You don't need to buy the best in the shop, but you should buy the best you can afford. Believe it or not, you can score some top-shelf eats on a $10 budget.
Our top tip: Find a local grocer with a robust bulk-food aisle, such as Whole Foods or Wild Oats. You can save a lot by buying just what you need.
Example: Six ounces of boxed couscous costs $2.19 to $2.50, while a pound (2 cups) scooped from a bulk bin will set you back $1.50 or less.
Added up over time, you can save two- or threefold on such items, freeing more money to put a higher-grade piece of meat on the menu.
A better bottom line at the grocery takes attention, commitment, and a bit more time, but saving soon becomes a game, one you can win.
Good deals are often right under your nose. Use our $10 dinners as a springboard to create budget meals of your own. Decide what you want to eat. Then find a way to make it happen on the cheap.
For our Roast Chicken With Oranges, Apricots and Moroccan Spices ($10.96), shop around for a deal on chicken.
If you can't find a sale on fresh birds, check out the pre-roasted ones at the grocery late night or early morning. Some markets sell rotisserie chickens as much as half-off at the end of the day.
Roasted Chicken with Oranges, Apricots and Moroccan Spices
Makes 4 to 6 servings
