A week of family meals on a budget

A week of family meals on a budget

We're on the slippery slope to Christmas. And once you factor in all the catch ups, drinks and gift buying, the bank balance is looking a little low. But there are still many weeknight meals to make and lunches to pack. It's time to ask yourself, how do I feed my family on a budget? Here's a very timely guide to cheap family meals that are wholesome and tasty and will get you through the working week.

What groceries should I buy on a budget?

Being frugal at the supermarket means you're saving on a number of levels. You'll save money, save space in the fridge / pantry and save on waste. Here are some key ingredients to consider when you're on a budget:

• Mince: Whether it's chicken, beef, pork or lamb mince, it's the most cost-effective cut of meat with endless recipe possibilities. For ten 30 minute recipes with mince click here.
   
• Tinned tomatoes: You can get crushed, whole, chopped or diced for about $1 per 400g tin. Opt for Australian grown.
   
• Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, sweet potato, bagged spinach, mushrooms, onions are all budget friendly wholesome veg to have at hand.
   
• Frozen Veg: If you know that your timetable is erratic, keep a bag or two of frozen veg in the freezer. Snap frozen, they offer the same nutrients as fresh veg. They also help cut your prep and cooking time down.
   
• Eggs: If you've got eggs in the fridge then you've got a meal. Boiled, scramble, whisked into an omelette or frittata your mealtimes are sorted.
   
• Tinned beans: Black beans, corn, chickpeas, lentils are all handy pantry items for a quick and cheap throw together meal.
   
• Tinned tuna: A large tin of tuna in the cupboard is a saving grace on the week before payday.