10 Cheap Vegan Foods To Stock Up On

Anyone who tries to tell you that eating vegan/vegetarian/plant-based is expensive is a liar. There, I said it. This is one of those myths that makes me so mad – I am not sure who started this, but it couldn’t be any further from the truth. Eating organic? Yes, that will be a bit more expensive than usual. Eating vegan? Nope.

To prove to you how cheap eating vegan is, I’ve compiled a list of 10 super cheap plant-based products. Truth be told, these items will make up a lot of your meals, anyways. Sure, you get creative and add spices, other veggies, etc., but still. Those on a budget will be able to afford the below (way cheaper than meat and cheese) and make awesome meals. And the best part – these are pantry staples, vegan or not. There’s nothing on this list that will be foreign or unfamiliar, promise!

#1: Rice

A large bag of white rice will take you a looooong way. White or brown, it’s still going to be super cheap. I usually grab a huuuuge bag for about 4.99 and it lasts me months.

#2: Dried Beans

Like rice, dried beans are super cheap in bulk. Canned beans are too, but dried beans are usually a bit cheaper. All you have to do is soak beforehand – not a big deal. Or hey, just go straight for the canned (I often do).

#3: Lentils

Dried lentils – oh, I love you. Bob’s Red Mill is awesome and inexpensive, but any ‘ol generic brand will do. Only $1.99 a bag, in most cases.

#4: Potatoes

We all have bought a sack of potatoes, right? I don’t really need to explain to you how cheap and how far a bag will take ya.

#5: Canned Tomatoes

Diced, paste, crushed, stewed… any kind will do. We grab a variety and they are usually anywhere between 39-69 cents a can. Perfect as a base for sauces, soups, and dips!

#6: Apples

A bag of apples – usually 8 or 10 in a bag – costs little to nothing. I want to say 2.99 or so where we shop, but could be more or less depending. The perfect on-the-go healthy and sweet snack.

#7: Canned Chickpeas

I grab store-bought brand usually and it’s literally 59 cents a can. Think of all the awesome things you can make with canned chickpeas – from chickpea salad to spicy roasted chickpeas.

#8: Bananas

Not sure about where you live (I’m sure it varies) but it’s usually 20 to 30 cents for a bushel of bananas. I mean… take them on the go or freeze those bad boys for smoothies and nice cream.

#9: Pasta

A lb. of pasta is only 99 cents at Trader Joe’s. 99 cents! Mmmmm macaroni salad.

#10: Frozen Green Beans

I love stocking up on frozen veggies – all kinds. Green beans in particular are always very inexpensive and you can usually grab a huge bag. Anywhere from $1-1.99 usually. A great veggie to have on hand in a pinch!

So there you have it. Can anyone really argue that these items are unaffordable? Eating vegan does not have to cost a fortune. Sure, specialty items and products that hit the market will be pricey – like any other packaged product. I save those items for every once in a while to keep the grocery bill down. It’s nice to treat yourself, but… at the end of the day, I’m always buying the above… and I am always satisfied with the recipes I can come up with just with the above. I promise – eating plant-based is not going to break your bank. For more money-saving and budget tips, check out my other posts on the subject.

• How to Save Money on a Vegan Diet
• Tips for a Rich Life on a Budget
• Vegan on a Budget: $50 List for Trader Joe’s
• Vegan on a Budget: Under $50 Shopping List for PriceRite

I’m always trying to find ways to save! Share yours tips with me, too. xx bianca