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60 of the Cheapest Foods in Your Local Grocery Store for Your Grocery List

When it comes to feeding yourself and your family, sticking to a budget can often feel like a daunting task. However, it is entirely possible to enjoy nutritious meals without breaking the bank. Below, we’ve compiled a list of 60 of the cheapest foods you can find in your local grocery store. These ingredients not only offer great value for money but also allow for variety and creativity in your cooking.

Grains and Carbohydrates

1. Rice – A staple in many cultures, it is versatile and filling.
2. Pasta – Quick to prepare and excellent for various dishes.
3. Oats – A healthy breakfast option that keeps you full longer.
4. Bread – Look for wholemeal or budget brands for nutritious sandwiches.
5. Potatoes – Incredibly versatile; can be baked, mashed, or fried.
6. Polenta – A cheap alternative to grains, suitable for many recipes.
7. Quinoa – Although slightly pricier, it’s healthy and filling.
8. Couscous – Quick-cooking and great for salads and side dishes.
9. Tortillas – Perfect for wraps and can be used in a variety of meals.
10. Barley – An underused grain that’s affordable and nutritious.

Legumes and Pulses

1. Lentils – High in protein and fibre, they’re the backbone of many meals.
2. Chickpeas – Great for curries, salads, or making hummus.
3. Kidney beans – A hearty addition to stews and chilli.
4. Black beans – Versatile and can be used in various dishes.
5. Baked beans – A convenient and inexpensive source of protein.
6. Peas – Fresh, frozen, or dried, they’re a nutritious option.
7. Split peas – Perfect for soups and stews.

Vegetables

1. Carrots – Inexpensive and long-lasting; great for snacking or cooking.
2. Cabbage – Nutrient-rich and can be used in a variety of dishes.
3. Onions – A flavour base for many meals, they are extremely affordable.
4. Garlic – Adds flavour and is cost-effective.
5. Frozen mixed vegetables – Convenient and often cheaper than fresh.
6. Sweet potatoes – Nutritious and can be roasted, mashed, or baked.
7. Spinach – Rich in vitamins and can be bought frozen for savings.
8. Frozen broccoli – Cheaper than fresh and retains nutrients well.

Fruits

1. Bananas – A cheap and energy-boosting snack.
2. Apples – Affordable and can be enjoyed raw or cooked.
3. Oranges – Juicy and packed with Vitamin C.
4. Frozen berries – Great for smoothies or desserts and often less costly than fresh.
5. Canned fruit – Look for those in juice rather than syrup for a healthier choice.
6. Seasonal fruit – Buying what’s in season often saves money.

Dairy and Alternatives

1. Milk – A staple for many households; choose value brands for savings.
2. Yoghurt – Look for larger tubs for better value; ideal for snacks or breakfast.
3. Cheese – Blocks or hard cheeses often offer more value than pre-sliced.
4. Eggs – A good source of protein, cook in many ways at a low cost.
5. Plant-based milk – Choose budget brands for dairy alternatives.

Meat and Alternatives

1. Chicken thighs – Generally cheaper than breasts.
2. Minced meat – Affordable and versatile.
3. Canned tuna – Great for sandwiches, salads, or casseroles.
4. Bacon ends – Budget-friendly cuts available at many stores.
5. Tofu – An inexpensive source of protein for vegetarians and vegans.

Snacks and Basics

1. Popcorn – A cheap and healthy snack option when made at home.
2. Peanut butter – High in protein and a great addition to many meals.
3. Rice cakes – A low-cost snacking option.
4. Canned soups – Look for budget brands for hearty meals.
5. Nuts and seeds – Buy in bulk for cost saving; great for snacking or adding to meals.

Spices and Condiments

1. Salt – Essential for cooking and very inexpensive.
2. Pepper – A basic seasoning that goes a long way.
3. Dried herbs – Affordable options to add flavour to dishes.
4. Soy sauce – Adds a salty taste to various recipes without much expense.
5. Vinegar – Useful for dressings and marinades, and very cheap.

Baking Ingredients

1. Flour – Essential for baking, available at low prices.
2. Sugar – A staple in many households at a low cost.
3. Baking powder – Inexpensive and essential for baking.
4. Yeast – Cheap for those who enjoy baking bread at home.

Miscellaneous

1. Broth or stock cubes – Affordable and enhance the flavour of soups and stews.
2. Canned tomatoes – A base for sauces and stews, and very economical.
3. Frozen chips – Often cheaper than fresh potatoes and convenient.
4. Bread crumbs – A cheap option to utilise leftover bread.
5. Cheap ready meals – Make life easier on busy days, but check the ingredients for health.

Conclusion

Navigating the grocery store on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality or nutrition. With the right list of affordable foods, it’s easy to create diverse and healthy meals for you and your family. Keep this list handy for your next trip to the grocery store, and remember that planning meals around what’s on sale can yield even greater savings! Happy shopping!

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