First, set a budget.
Before you start to plan out how you will eat for 1 on a budget, you must first determine how much money you can afford to spend on food each month. Once you have this number in mind, you can start to make a plan for how you will budget your food costs. Remember to factor in any additional costs such as taxes, fees, and delivery costs.
Meal Planning
Meal planning is essential when trying to eat for 1 on a budget. Start by making a list of meals that you can make with ingredients you already have in your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Then, create a weekly meal plan that includes these meals as well as new recipes that you would like to try. Try to stick to simple recipes that require few ingredients and don't take too long to prepare.
Shop Smart
When shopping for food, it's important to take advantage of sales and discounts. Look for store brands instead of name brands, buy in bulk when possible, and look for coupons or deals online. Additionally, try to avoid impulse buying and stick to your list.
Buy in Season
Buying produce in season is a great way to save money when trying to eat for 1 on a budget. Fruits and vegetables that are in season tend to be cheaper than those that are out of season. Additionally, buying locally grown produce is often cheaper than buying produce that has been shipped from across the country or world.
Cook in Bulk
Cooking in bulk is a great way to save money when eating for 1 on a budget. Make a big batch of something like chili, soup, or stew and freeze it in individual portions for easy reheating. This will save you time and money in the long run.
Eating for 1 on a budget doesn't have to be difficult. With a little bit of planning and organization, you can make sure that you are getting the most out of your food budget each month.