Eating vegan can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little creativity and some smart shopping, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious vegan meals without breaking the bank. In this post, we’ll share some of our favorite cheap vegan meal ideas that will help you save money without sacrificing flavor.
The Ultimate Vegan Ingredient Cost Comparison Chart: How to Eat Vegan on a Budget
Eating a vegan diet doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can enjoy delicious, healthy, and affordable vegan meals. Our ultimate vegan cost comparison chart will help you compare the prices of various vegan food items and make informed decisions when grocery shopping.
| Vegan Ingredient | Cost per kg |
|---|---|
| Tofu | $2.50 – $5.00 |
| Tempeh | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| Seitan | $4.00 – $8.00 |
| Soy Milk | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Almond Milk | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Oat Milk | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Coconut Milk | $4.00 – $6.00 |
| Vegan Meat Alternatives (ex. Beyond Meat, Impossible Foods) | $10.00 – $15.00 |
| Lentils | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Chickpeas | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Black Beans | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Quinoa | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Brown Rice | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Whole Wheat Pasta | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Nutritional Yeast | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| Vegan Cheese | $5.00 – $8.00 |
| Vegan Butter | $3.00 – $5.00 |
As you can see, there are plenty of affordable vegan ingredients to choose from. Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and quinoa are all great options for adding protein and fiber to your meals. Tofu, tempeh, and seitan are perfect for those looking for meat alternatives. And, there are plenty of vegan cheese, butter and nutritional yeast options that are affordable and delicious. With this chart as a guide, you can easily plan your vegan meals on a budget and enjoy delicious, plant-based food without breaking the bank.
30 Affordable Cheap Vegan Meals: A Cost Comparison Guide
Eating a vegan diet can sometimes be perceived as expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. In this chart, we’ve compiled a list of 30 delicious vegan meals that are budget-friendly and easy to make. Whether you’re a student, a busy working professional, or simply looking to save some money, these meals are perfect for anyone looking to eat vegan on a budget.
| Meal | Approximate Cost per Serving |
|---|---|
| Spaghetti and Meatless Meatballs | $2.50 |
| Black Bean Tacos | $2.00 |
| Lentil and Vegetable Stew | $1.75 |
| Chickpea Curry | $2.25 |
| BBQ Tofu Skewers | $2.50 |
| Vegetable and Quinoa Stir-Fry | $2.00 |
| Lentil and Spinach Dal | $2.00 |
| Vegan Lasagna | $2.50 |
| Lentil and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie | $2.75 |
| Vegan Chili | $2.00 |
| Vegan Jambalaya | $2.50 |
| Vegan Sloppy Joes | $2.25 |
| Vegan Pad Thai | $2.50 |
| Vegan Paella | $2.75 |
| Vegan Pot Pie | $2.50 |
| Vegan Mac and Cheese | $2.25 |
| Vegan Fried Rice | $2.00 |
| Vegan Falafel Wrap | $2.50 |
| Vegan Eggplant Parmesan | $2.75 |
| Vegan Enchiladas | $2.50 |
| Vegan Tofu Scramble | $2.00 |
| Vegan Pesto Pasta | $2.25 |
| Vegan Minestrone Soup | $2.00 |
| Vegan Gumbo | $2.50 |
| Vegan Butternut Squash Risotto | $2.75 |
| Vegan Mushroom Stroganoff | $2.50 |
| Vegan Ratatouille | $2.25 |
| Vegan Chickpea Fritters | $2.00 |
| Vegan Lentil and Vegetable Shepherd’s Pie | $2.75 |
| Vegan Lentil and Spinach Curry | $2.50 |
Eating Cheap Vegan Meals can be affordable and delicious. With this chart, you have 30 meal options that are budget-friendly and easy to make. From lentil soup to vegan chili, there’s a recipe for everyone. Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to eat a healthy and tasty vegan diet
Ideas For Cheap Vegan Meals
Eating vegan on a budget can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! From lentil dishes to veggie stir-fries, here are some ideas for cheap vegan meals that will keep your taste buds and wallet happy.
Beans, Lentils, and Chickpeas – The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Proteins
Beans and legumes are some of the most affordable vegan protein sources out there. A can of black beans, for example, costs about $1 and can be used to make a variety of delicious dishes. Try making black bean burritos with whole wheat tortillas. Or whip up a batch of lentil soup for a hearty and cheap vegan meal.
Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are a staple in many vegan households because they’re not only cheap but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They’re versatile, easy to cook, and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and veggie burgers. Plus, they’re an excellent source of iron, which is essential for vegans since it’s not found in many plant-based foods.
Rice and Pasta – Carb-Loading on a Budget
Dishes Pasta and rice are both incredibly versatile and budget-friendly ingredients. A pound of dry pasta costs less than $2, and a bag of rice costs even less. Try making a big batch of spaghetti with marinara sauce and veggies, or whip up a stir-fry with rice and your favorite vegetables.
Rice and vegan pasta are some of the most affordable and filling foods on the planet. Not only are they cheap, but they’re also versatile and easy to prepare. They’re perfect for meals like stir-fries, curries, and soups. Plus, they’re a great source of carbohydrates, which are an essential source of energy.
Frozen Vegetables – A Convenient and Affordable Option
Frozen vegetables are an excellent budget-friendly option for vegans looking for cheap vegan meals. Not only are they cheaper than fresh vegetables, but they’re also just as nutritious. Plus, they’re convenient since they can be stored in the freezer for long periods of time without going bad. They’re perfect for adding to soups, stews, curries, and stir-fries.
Meal Planning and Meal Prepping – The Key to Sticking to a Vegan Budget
Meal planning and meal prepping are essential for staying on budget as a vegan. By planning out your meals in advance, you can avoid impulse buys and overspending. Plus, by prepping your meals ahead of time, you’ll be less likely to resort to expensive takeout or processed foods.
Buddha Bowls On A Budget
Buddha bowls are a great way to get a lot of nutrition into one dish without spending a lot of money. Simply combine cooked grains, like quinoa or brown rice, with a variety of veggies, beans, and a flavorful sauce. The options are endless, and you can easily make a big batch that will last for several meals.
Buddha bowls are a great way to get in a lot of nutrients in one meal. They’re also super easy to make. Simply cook up some brown rice or quinoa. Add in some cooked vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers, and top with some chickpeas or black beans for protein. For a bit of flavor, add in some avocado, nuts, or seeds, and drizzle with a simple vinaigrette or tahini dressing.
Soups and Chili Cheap Vegan Meals
Soup and chili are great for stretching your budget because they are easy to make in big batches. A pot of vegetable soup or chili can be made for less than $10 and will last for several meals. Plus, they are both versatile and can be made with a variety of ingredients.
Vegan soups and chili are also great options for cheap vegan meals. They’re both easy to make in large batches and can be stored in the freezer for a quick and easy meal. A simple vegetable soup can be made by sautéing some onions, garlic, and celery. Then adding in some broth and diced vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes. For chili, cook up some onions and peppers, and add in some beans, diced tomatoes, and spices like cumin and chili powder.
Casseroles (One Pot Dish Recipes)
Casseroles or called One Pot dishes are a great way to get a lot of food for a little money. They can be made with a variety of ingredients and are easy to make in big batches. Try making a big batch of vegan lasagna or a quinoa and vegetable casserole.
Casseroles are a great option for cheap vegan meals because they’re easy to make and can feed a crowd. Some great options include lasagna made with tofu or tempeh, a vegan version of shepherd’s pie made with lentils and mashed potatoes, or a vegan version of mac and cheese made with cauliflower or cashews. All of these dishes can be made in one pot and are easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Conclusion: Cheap Vegan Meals
Eating a vegan diet doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little bit of planning and creativity, you can easily make delicious, cheap vegan meals that will keep you full and satisfied. From simple pasta dishes and stir-fries to more complex casseroles and soups. There are endless possibilities for tasty and affordable vegan meals. So, whether you’re on a tight budget or just looking to save some money, don’t let the cost of eating vegan hold you back. With these tips and ideas, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious and healthy vegan meals without breaking the bank.
