What ingredients offer taste and nutrition under ₹50 per dish?

Question

What’s a good prep schedule for 3 days of lunch and dinner? Get a simple, manageable plan for getting a few days ahead on your meals.

Answer 1

Lentils, eggs, and seasonal vegetables like spinach or potatoes are excellent sources of taste and nutrition that can be incorporated into dishes costing under ₹50 per serving. These ingredients are versatile and packed with essential nutrients.

Detailed Explanation:

Creating nutritious and flavorful meals on a budget requires smart ingredient choices. Here's a breakdown of why lentils, eggs, and seasonal vegetables fit the bill:

1. Lentils (Dal): Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, offering protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate. A simple lentil soup or dal can be incredibly satisfying and cost-effective. A single serving of cooked lentils requires a small amount of dried lentils, making it very affordable.
2. Eggs: Eggs are a complete protein source and provide essential vitamins and minerals. They are incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes, from omelets and frittatas to curries and stir-fries. Even with rising egg prices, one or two eggs per serving can still keep the cost under ₹50.
3. Seasonal Vegetables: Opting for vegetables that are in season locally is key to affordability. Spinach, potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and carrots are often budget-friendly options. These vegetables can be used in curries, stir-fries, soups, or as side dishes. They provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
4. Combining Ingredients: The real magic happens when you combine these ingredients. For example, a lentil and vegetable curry with a boiled egg provides a balanced and nutritious meal at a low cost.

Pro Tip:

Buy ingredients in bulk when possible and store them properly to extend their shelf life and save money in the long run. For example, buying a larger bag of lentils is often cheaper per serving than buying smaller pre-packaged portions.