A one-week ₹500 grocery plan focuses on affordable staples like rice, lentils, seasonal vegetables, and basic spices, prioritizing home-cooked meals to maximize value. This requires careful planning and minimal eating out.
Creating a ₹500 grocery plan for a week requires strategic shopping and meal planning. Here's a sample plan:
Grains (₹150): Purchase 2 kg of rice or wheat flour. Rice is versatile and can be used for various dishes. Wheat flour can be used to make roti or paratha.
Lentils/Pulses (₹150): Buy 1 kg of lentils (dal), such as masoor dal or toor dal. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber and can be used to make dal or added to soups.
Vegetables (₹150): Focus on seasonal and affordable vegetables like potatoes, onions, tomatoes, spinach, and cabbage. These can be used in various curries, stir-fries, and side dishes. Buy smaller quantities of each to avoid spoilage.
Spices & Oil (₹50): Purchase a small packet of basic spices like turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin seeds, and mustard seeds. Also, buy a small pouch of cooking oil.
Sample Meal Plan:
Breakfast: Rice porridge, roti with vegetable curry.
Lunch: Rice with dal and vegetable side dish.
Dinner: Roti with dal or vegetable curry, khichdi (rice and lentil porridge).
This plan emphasizes simple, home-cooked meals using affordable ingredients. Adjust quantities based on your individual needs and preferences.
Check local markets or government-subsidized stores for cheaper prices on staples. Buying in bulk, if possible and affordable, can also save money in the long run. Avoid impulse purchases and stick to your shopping list.