I’m a Chef: Here Are 5 Foods Every Frugal Person Should Buy in Bulk
Written by
Heather Taylor
Edited by
Gary Dudak
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Every dollar counts when you’re grocery shopping with a frugal budget. And as much as frugal shoppers value the savings when they shop for bulk food items, it’s equally as important that these grocery purchases are healthy and nourishing.
GOBankingRates spoke to Jessica Randhawa, head chef and recipe creator at The Forked Spoon, to learn more about the best foods to buy on frugal budgets. Here are her five inexpensive bulk food recommendations.
Dried Beans and Lentils
Buying dried beans and lentils in bulk is a win-win for frugal shoppers. Not only can you store them for months without worrying they will go bad, but dried beans and lentils also act as a great source of protein, fiber and essential nutrients.
What can you cook using these versatile ingredients? Randhawa recommends adding them to soups, stews and salads — and any other meal you feel could benefit from a protein boost.
Brown Rice
While rice is often cited as a must-buy bulk food item, Randhawa’s recommendation for frugal shoppers is to shop for brown rice instead of white rice.
“This whole grain is packed with vitamins and minerals and can be the base of countless meals,” said Randhawa. “Purchasing brown rice in bulk ensures you always have a healthy and filling option on hand that can last for a long time in your pantry.”
Oats
Oats should always be on a frugal shopper’s shopping list. Randhawa said oats are typically inexpensive, rich in fiber and help keep your stomach full for longer.
Much like the dried beans, lentils and rice already mentioned in this list, oats can be used in many ways. You can use them to make a comforting oatmeal for a nutritious breakfast, as an ingredient for baking muffins and much more.
Canned Tomatoes
Frugal shoppers who choose between buying fresh tomatoes versus canned tomatoes should opt for the canned version — and not just because it saves extra money. Canned tomatoes, Randhawa said, are a pantry staple. They have a long shelf life and add lots of flavor and nutrition to your meals.
Speaking of meals, these tomatoes are versatile enough to enhance tons of dishes. If you need a few recommendations for where to add them, Randhawa said to try pasta sauces, soups and stews.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds might not initially be on a frugal shopper’s grocery list because they are often expensive. If you’re willing to pay a little extra for a bulk purchase now, however, Randhawa said it can save you money in the long run.
“Nuts and seeds are rich in healthy fats, protein and essential nutrients,” said Randhawa. “Store them in a cool, dry place, and they can last for months, providing you with a healthy snack or a boost to your meals.”
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