Veganism is considered an expensive lifestyle, with many people worried that switching to a plant-based diet will be costly. However, the truth is that with a few simple tricks and proper planning, you can save money while still enjoying delicious and nutritious meals. 

This article will bring you practical tips on how to save on vegan food, should you sacrifice the quality or variety of your diet.

1. Plan your menu in advance

One of the best ways to save money is to plan your meals. When you have a clear idea of ​​what you will cook, reduce the risk of impulsive purchases and food waste. 

Set aside time each week to plan each day's meals and make a shopping list. Consider recipes that include inexpensive ingredients such as legumes, grains, and seasonal vegetables.

Tip: Make a simple schedule in which you use similar ingredients every day, but each time a little differently - for example, lentils can be the basis of a soup one day, and you can make a salad from them the next.

2. Use seasonal products

Seasonal fruits and vegetables are not only fresher and tastier, but also cheaper. Find out what is in season in your area and focus on those foods. 

Seasonal shopping can save you tens of percent over buying imported or off-season products.

Tip: Visit local farmers' markets, where you can often find vegetables and fruits directly from the growers. In addition, you will support local farmers!

3. Buy groceries in bulk

Buying foods in bulk, such as beans, rice, oatmeal, pasta or seeds, will help you save. 

Dry foods bought in bulk have a longer shelf life, so you don't have to worry about them spoiling quickly. 

In addition, many stores offer discounts when buying larger packages.

Tip: Consider investing in glass jars and containers where you can store dry food safely and always have it at hand.

4. Learn the basics of cooking

If you really want to save on vegan food, the best way is to start cooking more at home. 

Vegan meals can be simple and quick to prepare if you master a few basic recipes. 

Homemade meals not only save money, but also your time when you have prepared portions in advance.

Tip: Learn some basic recipes for vegan sauces and marinades that add flavor to dishes without buying expensive flavorings. 

For example, tahini sauce, hummus or tomato sauce can be made cheaply at home.

5. Shop at events and discounts

Keeping an eye out for discounts and deals on a regular basis can make a big difference in your budget. 

If you see your favorite products on sale, buy them in bulk and stock up. 

Big stores often have regular discounts on vegan staples like oatmeal, frozen vegetables, or plant-based milks.

Tip: Keep an eye on store flyers or download apps to keep you informed of current discounts and promotions.

6. Consider your own food production

Many vegan products you can buy at the store can easily be made at home for a fraction of the cost. 

Plant-based milks, spreads, vegan cheeses or even plant-based burgers can easily be prepared at home.

Tip: Try making your own almond or oat milk. All you need is water, nuts or flakes and a blender. In this way, you not only save money, but also create products without unnecessary preservatives.

7. Use frozen foods

Frozen fruits and vegetables are an affordable and practical alternative to fresh food. 

They have a long shelf life and are often harvested at their peak ripeness, meaning they are nutritious and delicious. 

In addition, you can use frozen food at any time, so there is no risk of having to throw out spoiled food.

Tip: You can add frozen spinach, berries or peas to smoothies, soups or sauces. This way you save money without reducing the quality of the food.

8. Stock up on basic foods

There are a few basic vegan foods that you should always have in your home. 

Legumes (lentils, beans, chickpeas), grains (rice, quinoa, oats), nuts, seeds and pasta are cheap, nutritious and very versatile. 

With these ingredients, you can create a variety of dishes without much expense.

Tip: Make a list of essential foods that you will replenish regularly and avoid impulse purchases of more expensive alternatives.

9. Cut back on processed vegan products

Vegan ready meals and processed foods such as vegan burgers, cheeses or meat substitutes can be very expensive. 

Although they are tasty and convenient, regularly including them in your diet can add a lot to your budget. Focus more on basic, unprocessed ingredients.

Tip: If you're in the mood for something special, try making homemade vegan burgers or tofu marinade. Not only will it cost you less, but you'll also know exactly what's in your food.

10. Experiment with inexpensive plant-based protein sources

Protein doesn't have to be expensive. Legumes such as lentils, beans or chickpeas are a great and cheap source of protein. 

Tofu, tempeh, and seitan are other cheaper options if you want to eat quality plant-based protein. 

Their price is often significantly lower than processed vegan products.

Tip: Try different ways of preparing beans or lentils, for example in the form of soups, salads or as a filling for tortillas.

Conclusion

A vegan diet doesn't have to be expensive if you learn a few simple tips and tricks. Planning, buying in bulk and avoiding expensive processed products can help you cut costs considerably. 

Veganism is sustainable not only from the perspective of the environment, but also from the perspective of your budget. With these tips, you can eat tasty, nutritious and cheap.

Finally, remember that investing in quality plant-based foods is also an investment in your health, which can save you health care expenses in the long run.