Cooking Vegan on a Budget by Elle Walsh

So, you are thinking about going vegan. The most common question people ask me when I tell them that I am vegan, besides the dreaded “Where do you get your protein from? (Veggies, look it up!) is “But, isn’t it expensive?”. I do not downplay this question. It is expensive. We live in a society where it is more cost effective to buy foods that are laden with chemicals and GMO’s, then it is to buy wholesome foods.

1) Buy in bulk.

Depending on where you buy your groceries, you may have an option to buy in bulk. I get many of my bulk supplies at stores like Sprouts and Whole Foods. I buy flours, sugar, oatmeal, seasonings, rice, beans, nuts, dried fruit and candy at these stores. Usually, they have a great product description that tells you all of the ingredients used in the products. Before Covid-19, I would just measure out the amount that I wanted on the scale but now they have everything pre-packed in nifty sacks that are measured by half pounds and pounds.

2) Checkout local, international markets.

We have some great international markets locally! Depending on what genre of market you go to you can find tortillas, tofu, soy sauce, coconut milk, and even curry! Check out your local international markets! I once found limes for 2 cents apiece!

3) Buy frozen.

If you love smoothies like me (check out November’s article for my favorite smoothie recipes) frozen fruits are your friend! Look for whatever is inexpensive. I use frozen fruits in frosting and on top of oatmeal. Frozen veggies these days aren't the same frozen veggies that our moms used to buy! There are some awesome options out there. If you are willing to spend the extra dollar go for the organic brands.

4) Make it yourself.

Do you love ketchup, curry, hummus, ice cream… the possibilities are endless! Most of the time it is cheaper to make your own sauces, desserts and dips.

Elle Walsh for ELLA Inspires Magazine

Photo: Jordana Keel | @j.keelphotography

Elle Walsh is the owner of The Vegan Chick Bakery in McKinney, TX and a restaurant allergen consultant. She is a wife and mother of two who loves to travel and cuddle her Chihuahua dog, Sadie. Follow @thevegan.chick on Instagram.