Frugal Vegetarian Fun

Our little family has eaten a 99% vegan diet so far this week, and so far, we've love it! I think my favorite new recipes are the Oatmeal Blender Waffles, Nacho UnCheese Sauce (as a part of a delicious taco salad) and a vegan version of this awesome Curry Recipe. We have eaten well...maybe that's why I haven't lost more weight;) Anyway, this way of eating can go either way as a budget friend or foe, depending on how you go about it. I am still learning, but I think the key is to may meat substitutions a treat, rather than your every day fare. My cousin Esme, a serious vegan gave me some excellent advice when we decided to do two weeks as (almost) vegans: she basically told me not to try to recreate dishes that have meat in them, but to rather try to make delicious vegan meals instead. I take that to mean that you look for new, delicious ways to prepare veggies, whole grains, beans, etc. rather than always re-creating old standbys. We are doing a little of both this week, but I've found that I can create equally delicious, economical meals with the same amount of effort as before, but they are generally healthier than what I would otherwise have prepared. This is good news!

The best news is that I spent my normal amount on food so far this month (our budget is $200 for food/toiletries for 2 hungrier-than-normal adults and one just starting to eat 9 month old) and it looks like I will end up under budget! Now whether we will continue to eat this way after two weeks is too soon to tell, but I will keep you all (on the edge of your seats I know;) posted.

More frugal tips here!