What under-₹500 grocery list lasts 5 full days?

Question

What under-₹500 grocery list can last for 5 full days? Get a practical shopping guide for creating a week's worth of balanced, affordable meals.

Answer 1

A grocery list under ₹500 that lasts 5 days can include staples like rice, lentils (dal), potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and a few seasonal vegetables. Planning simple, nutritious meals around these ingredients is key.

Detailed Explanation:

Creating a budget-friendly grocery list requires careful planning and prioritizing affordable, versatile ingredients. Here's a sample list and how it can stretch for 5 days:

1. Grains: 1 kg Rice (approx. ₹40-₹60). Rice forms the base for many meals.
2. Legumes: 500g Lentils (Dal) - Moong or Masoor (approx. ₹60-₹80). Dal is a great source of protein and fiber.
3. Vegetables:
   • 1 kg Potatoes (approx. ₹20-₹30). Potatoes are filling and can be used in various dishes.
   • 500g Onions (approx. ₹20-₹30). Onions are essential for flavor.
   • 500g Tomatoes (approx. ₹30-₹40). Tomatoes add acidity and flavor to curries and sauces.
   • Seasonal Vegetables (approx. ₹100-₹150): Choose affordable, locally available vegetables like spinach, cabbage, or carrots.
4. Spices & Oil: (Assuming you have basic spices and oil at home, allocate a small amount for refills if needed - approx. ₹50-₹100).

Meal Ideas:

• Dal Rice: A classic and nutritious combination.
• Potato Curry: Simple potato curry with rice or roti (if you have flour).
• Vegetable Pulao: Rice cooked with mixed vegetables.
• Lentil Soup: A hearty and warming soup.
• Tomato Rice: Rice cooked with tomatoes and spices.

This list focuses on providing balanced nutrition while staying within the budget. Prices may vary depending on location and vendor.

Pro Tip:

Buy in bulk when possible, especially for staples like rice and lentils, as it's often cheaper per unit. Also, check local markets for better deals on vegetables compared to supermarkets.