Cheap keto meals

Embarking on a keto journey may initially appear costly, especially with the emphasis on extra meats and butter being so expensive now! However, with a bit of strategic planning and some helpful tips, you can enjoy the benefits of a ketogenic diet without breaking the bank. In this guide, I’ll explore how to master the art of “cheap keto meals” and stay on budget without compromising on taste or nutrition.

• Pack Your Lunch for Keto Success: One of the easiest ways to stick to your budget while on keto is to pack your lunch. When you skip the convenience of grabbing something on the go, not only do you save money, but you also have better control over the nutritional content of your meals. Prepare your lunch ahead of time with keto-friendly options like salads, keto bread sandwiches and wraps or leftover keto dinners.

Try my JAR SALADS recipes for ideas.

• • Meal Planning: Your Budget’s Best Friend: The key to keto on a budget is meal planning. Taking just five minutes on a Sunday to plan your meals for the week can make a significant difference. Plan your dinners, lunches, and snacks, making a shopping list based on what you need. This not only ensures you stay within your budget but also helps reduce food waste.

• • Affordable Protein Choices: While Wagyu steak might be tempting, there’s no need to indulge every night. Opt for budget-friendly protein sources like mince. Create delicious meals such as meatloaf, cabbage and mince, spag bol with zucchini noodles, or cottage pie. Fattier cuts of meat are not only more economical but also fit perfectly into the keto lifestyle. Consider dishes like slow cookes stews or choose chicken thighs over chicken breasts for added flavour and cost-effectiveness.

• • Cook Once, Eat Twice: Embrace the “cook once, eat twice” philosophy. Roast a whole chicken for multiple meals, prepare a large slow-cooker dish and freeze half for later use, or make two keto pizza bases and freeze one. This not only saves you time but also ensures that you always have a keto-friendly option readily available.

• • Budget-Friendly Snacking: When it comes to snacks, think economically. Tinned tuna, sardines, mackerel, and oysters are not only affordable but also keto-friendly. Ensure they are packed in water or olive oil, rather than vegetable oil. These make for quick and nutritious snacks that won’t strain your budget.

• • Smart Cooking Oils: You don’t need to splurge on fancy cooking oils. Utilise cost-effective options like Woolworths butter (which is made from grass fed cows), olive oil or repurpose leftover bacon grease. These alternatives not only add flavour to your dishes but also contribute to your keto success without breaking the bank.

• Seasonal Vegetables and DIY Gardening: Save money on vegetables by buying seasonal produce, which is often on special. Better yet, consider growing some yourself. Asian vegetables and Cos lettuce are easy to grow at home. Harvesting the outside leaves as they grow ensures a continuous supply of fresh, affordable greens for your keto meals.

Eating keto on a budget is not only possible but can also be a rewarding and sustainable lifestyle choice. By incorporating these tips into your routine, you can enjoy delicious and affordable meals that align with your keto goals. Say goodbye to the misconception that keto has to be expensive and hello to a more cost-effective and enjoyable ketogenic journey.