3 Cheap Meals

These are for the times when money (savings) outranks nutrition (within reason - we still don't advocate ramen-level-departures from health...)  I hereby acknowledge that these (at least, #1 and #2) aren't diet foods.  However, they make great family meals.

1)  Fried potatoes with ham and onions. 

This one is easy (and one of husband's favorite).  Saute one chopped onion in (minimal) olive/coconut oil, then set them aside.  Chunk red potatoes (6 or so) and fry them on medium-high (in the pan with the previously-used onion oil) until crispy, then add the onions and one package of diced ham ($1 at the commissary).  Salt and pepper to taste (and ketchup, if you like) make this a comfort-food winner.

Total Cost for 2-3 People:  WAY Under $3.

2)  Fried Rice. 

You can do this the junky way - with a cheap, instant, boxed mix (complete with three days' worth of sodium) - or you can do it the old fashioned way and spend roughly the same amount and have a much healthier meal.  Just scramble 2 eggs (approximately $0.50, even if you buy the organic kind, like we do), cook brown rice, then remove the eggs from the pan, add a tad of oil, and combine the rice, frozen mixed veggies (any kind!), and scrambled eggs.  Add a smidge of soy sauce, if feeling indulgent.  ;-)  (Ditto to making your own chow mein - just saute sliced cabbage and soy sauce and noodles.)

Total Cost for 2-3 People:  WAY Under $2.

3)  Rice and Beans. 

At $2.00 per 2 lb. bag, one serving (1/4 cup uncooked rice) is exactly $0.10.  Not joking.  Beans are similar, if you're willing to buy the dry kind, then soak and gently simmer/cook them yourself.  Which isn't hard.  =)  Then, add whatever you like/can afford! Avoid/minimize using cheese, sour cream, avocados, and pre-made salsas, as they cost more per ounce.  But, pork is an inexpensive meat to include, (especially from Paul's) as is chicken (sometimes).  Also try diced celery, raisins, corn, (think: Chipotle) tomatoes, onions, cilantro, a splash of lime, and sea salt... mmm!

And guess what?  You're still WAY under $1, per serving.  WAY under $2, for 3 portions.

... and now, don't you feel inspired?!  In spite of today's undulating economy, rising gas prices, and exorbitant food costs, we can manage.  Just watch us, world.