Meat, delicious as it is, tends to occupy a hefty portion of your grocery budget. It’s one of those items that can drive up your bill without you even noticing. Yet, we need protein to keep our bodies functioning. Red meat especially has some of the best proteins and aminos and many other vitamins and minerals that are optimized for our bodies needs, but can be one of the most expensive proteins to purchase (chicken isn’t far behind).
But we live in a world where our budget needs must be met. How can we keep protein in our meals, without sacrificing our budget? We take some meals and use meat alternatives to keep our protein up. Just like some say, we have to think like our ancestors – when meat protein wasn’t available, they would turn to other protein options – typically more time stable options – in comes beans and lentils!
Let’s see how we can put this into action without missing out on our protein needs.
How to Put it Into Action:
Opt for Meatless Meals Regularly
Start by incorporating meatless meals into your weekly menu. Not only is this budget-friendly, but it’s also a great way to explore new recipes and boost your vegetable intake. Consider trying dishes like veggie stir-fries, lentil soups, or bean-based tacos. Even dedicating one or two days a week to vegetarian meals can make a substantial difference in your grocery spending.
I’m definitely one of those skeptics who really doesn’t think you can have a meal that fills you without meat, but once you start adding more alternative protein sources like beans and lentils, you will find they fill you. For the fussy food members in your house, get creative! Find ways to hide the texture or flavor of the beans by using spices and other foods they already enjoy.
Explore Affordable Protein Alternatives
Beans, lentils, tofu, and chickpeas are fantastic substitutes for meat. They’re not only more cost-effective but also rich in protein and nutrients. Try experimenting with different bean varieties in chili or making hearty lentil-based stews. Tofu, when marinated and cooked well, can mimic the texture of meat and works great in various dishes like stir-fries and curries.
This was always a hard one for us, as I don’t even like chili because of the beans. But it took finding the right flavors and spices to make it taste like something I would enjoy (insert more bbq flavor than chili flavor to trick me into not being reminded of the chili I *had* to eat growing up). Do what you can to find meals that work for your family, not all will be a success but some, some will surprise you how much they like it!
Make Smart Meat Purchases
When you do buy meat, be strategic. Look for cheaper cuts or opt for buying in bulk, which often comes at a lower per-pound price, when your budget allows the bulk purchases. Consider planning meals around meat that’s on sale or available in family-sized packs, then portion and freeze it for later use. Additionally, consider incorporating smaller amounts of meat into dishes, using it more as a flavor enhancer than the main ingredient.
We have an always been bulk meat shoppers. Purchasing half cows from local farmers near our home, to always have a freezer full of amazing beef. While living smaller, we purchase larger store bulk quantities and split it up into flat packed freezer portions. We have also made the choice to make meals with less meat portions in it and not making meals where meat takes up the vast portion of the meal, more of an accent, but still meeting our protein needs by adding protein in our sides.
Reducing Meat Consumption, But Keeping Your Protein Up
Reducing meat consumption doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or nutrition; it’s an opportunity to diversify your meals while being mindful of your budget. By exploring more alternative protein options and making strategic meat purchases, you can significantly trim your grocery expenses.
Remember, the goal isn’t to eliminate meat entirely but to find a balance that works for both your budget and your plate!
Have you made adjustments to your grocery budget or meal planning around your protein source? If so, share below to help others discover ways to make this possible in their budgets and having their protein options stretched just a bit further.
If you’re looking for a protein accent dinner, check out our Loaded Baked Potato Soup, using just some bacon as the main protein source, but a very filling meal in a bowl.
Another great way to add protein into your diets, using protein snacks like these Snickerdoodle Protein Bites. Sweet and protein in one.
Till Next Time,
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