Question

What is a minimalist ₹300 prep list for vegetarian households? Get a sample grocery list for a single person for a few days.

Answer 1

A minimalist ₹300 prep list for vegetarian households focuses on versatile staples like rice, lentils, potatoes, onions, and basic spices, allowing for a variety of simple and nutritious meals.

Detailed Explanation:

Creating a minimalist prep list on a budget requires prioritizing items that can be used in multiple dishes. Here's a sample ₹300 prep list, keeping in mind that prices can vary depending on location and retailer:

1. Rice (₹80): A staple carbohydrate source. Choose a budget-friendly variety like sona masoori or parboiled rice. 1 kg should suffice.
2. Lentils (₹100): Provides protein and fiber. Masoor dal (red lentils) cooks quickly and is versatile. 1 kg is a good starting point.
3. Potatoes (₹50): A versatile vegetable that can be boiled, mashed, fried, or added to curries. Buy 1 kg.
4. Onions (₹40): Essential for flavoring many Indian dishes. Purchase 1 kg.
5. Basic Spices (₹30): A small packet each of turmeric powder, chili powder, and cumin seeds. These are fundamental for flavor.

With these ingredients, you can prepare dishes like dal chawal (lentil soup with rice), aloo sabzi (potato curry), and simple lentil-based stews. You can adjust the quantities based on your household's consumption.

Pro Tip:

Check local markets or wholesale stores for better prices on bulk items. Buying in larger quantities, even if it exceeds your immediate budget, can often save money in the long run if you have proper storage.