30 Day Frugal Vegan Challenge- Day 1: Curry Basmati and Chickpea Salad

Thank God I keep beans and rice in the pantry!

 

  Utilizing ingredients I already had in my pantry, I created this yummy late lunch, then headed to start the most challenging part of this challenge: shopping. 

 

 Yes, this cost $42 dollars. (Cara Cara Oranges and Bananas not pictured)

 

 I am in a deficit by $11 dollars. My shopping budget for next week will be $19 bucks.  Rice and Beans are my best friend. 

Curry Basmati and Chickpea Salad

- 1 8oz can of Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)

-1 Cup White Basmati Rice

- 2 Cups Trader Joe's Low Sodium Veggie Broth

- 2 Tablespoons Earth Balance Vegan Mayo

- 2 Stalks of Celery

- 1 Tablespoon of Trader Joe's  Sundried Tomatoes

- 2 teaspoons of Kosher Salt

-1 teaspoon Garlic Powder

-2 Tablesppons Curry Powder

-Half a 16 oz bag of Trader Joe's Organic Romaine Leaves

Cook rice according to package directions, substituting broth for water. Once finshed let chill in fridge for at least 2 hours. 

Drain and rise chickpeas and add to large mixing bowl. Add HALF of chilled rice to bowl. Then, add in celery, sun dried tomatoes, and  seasonings, with  1 tablespoon of mayo. Mix all ingredients until evenly coated.  Add in remaining tablespoon of mayo. Serve on top of romaine lettece.

Feeds 1 hungry person, or 2 full people

 

* I'm also on a 30 Wardrobe Challenge! Read about it on my other blog.

Vegan and Frugal: 30 Day Challenge

Pan-fried Basmati rice and quinoa with cannellini beans, mushrooms and wilted arugula. This was a cheap (delicious!) meal. I can do this.

Is it possible to eat frugal while maintaining a healthy vegan diet?

For the next 30 days, I'm going to find out. With a grocery budget of $30 a week, I'm challenging my appetite and unleashing my creativity in the kitchen. I shouldn't say this, but I'm a bit skeptical. $30 bucks? Gluten free bread cost $5 dollars!  My favorite veggie patties are $7!  One Organic avocado is almost $2 bucks! Oh, goodness!

This is a  CHALLENGE.


Here's what I'm getting myself into:

- Meals must contain a source of calcium and protein. I'm also going to prove that a gluten free, soy free vegan can get these nutrients- on a budget!

- Seasonings and oils are not included in budget allowance. I need olive oil. Olive oil is expensive.

- Existing pantry items must be utilized. I see a lot of baking happening this week.


Since I only have $30 dollars for food, I won't be eating out.. Unless someone else is paying. 

Follow along- Instagram: frugal_jana