Groceries can be expensive, even if you’re not buying anything expensive. That’s why one social media user posted the question of how to get the most groceries for $50. Commenters by the dozens began offering their suggestions. Before we get into the grocery-shopping specifics, there’s one important note: If you’re having trouble affording food, that’s what food pantries are for. Many people who qualify to use one don’t realize it. You don’t need to be unemployed or on SNAP benefits. You simply have to meet the eligibility requirements for your local pantry, which are often quite accepting. Here are some grocery options that provide the most nutrition for the least money.
- Rice and Beans: Rice is one of the cheapest foods to buy and the easiest to prepare. It comes in big sacks, and all you have to do is cook it with a rice cooker or just on the stove top. Throw some beans on top and you’ve got a high-fiber, high-protein, low-cost meal. Chicken Thighs: Meats tend to be more expensive than veggies, but they also pack a lot of protein and tend to be filling.
- Chicken thighs: Chicken thighs are one of the most cost-efficient meats out there. Don’t know what to serve with your chicken thighs? Try beans and rice.
- Potatoes: Don’t pass up the produce section. While produce prices are at an all-time high, there are bargains to be had. Grocery stores regularly put potatoes on sale that are about to go bad. While they’re still good, the idea is to get them out the door. You can take advantage of that need and grab a good source of fiber and starch for pennies.
- Canned and Frozen Vegetables: Veggies don’t have to be fresh to be healthy. Often, the stuff that’s in the canned aisle or the freezer section is the cheapest, because the farms and companies that make it don’t have to account for veggies bruising or going bad between the farm and the store. These veggies are perfectly nutritious, too — they often have more vitamins than their fresh counterparts. Grab whatever is cheapest, and season it with whatever you have around (butter and garlic salt are great). Throw some veggies into whatever else you happen to be making — maybe your rice and beans.