Either as a vegetarian or as someone who is looking to cut back on meat – costs related or because you want to upgrade to a healthier diet, – nothing is going to help you more than bulk buys. Buying in bulk means you’ll save time by shopping more but less often, and you’ll save money since bulk buys are usually a lot cheaper.
Australia wide, there are a few good options that enable even the most budgeted of budget-minded consumers to shop effortlessly and plentifully. Co-ops, farmers markets, warehouse clubs, specialty supermarkets and online stores offer plenty of options in terms of whole foods, natural foods, organics and all things healthy.
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If you’re considering meat-less meals and you don’t know where to start planning your dinners and lunches, then read on for some of the best foods that you could buy in bulk and get healthy.
Beans, lentils, chickpeas, peas
The name of the game is … legumes. For every vegetarian and every vegan out there, there is no such thing as a healthier lifestyle without legumes. But legumes aren’t just for vegans and vegetarians. Everyone should benefit from legumes’ nutritional values.
High in protein and with a unique nutritional profile, food items such as beans, lentils, chickpeas and peas are among the first you should buy whether transitioning to a vegetarian diet or simply looking for ways to eat more healthy. Black beans, for example, are a great substitute for red meat. They will not only fill up your body with good protein and fiber, they will also lower your fat intake.
Vegetables are easy to find in bulk and the ones mentioned here are among the cheapest. In addition, they last indefinitely when properly stored, so that adds to their value.
Grains, grains, grains
From rice and couscous to quinoa (technically a seed, theoretically a grain) and oats, grains are the must for a healthy diet and definitely beneficial as meat-less options meals.
Although most people would eat rice and quinoa more as side dishes, it’s easy to turn these grains into full meals when you add a side of roasted or grilled vegetables, soup or other vegetarian quick-sides such as falafels or vegetarian burgers.
Grains bring so much fiber and vitamins to the body that it’s a shame some people tend to avoid them. Instead of buying bulk sized name-brand cereals, try switching to oats next time you shop. You can prepare your oatmeal with a variation of ingredients to fit your taste; you can make your own granola, and even your own oat bars, all of which are going to quick start your day fiber-rich and magnesium-full.
Nuts, nuts, nuts
Although some don’t exactly fall into cheapest food categories, nuts aren’t just healthy, but they’re also delicious.
Almonds, walnuts, Brazil nuts, macadamias, cashews, sunflower seeds, and whatever other nuts and seeds kick your taste buds, buy them, store them, and eat them because they will serve you good. Nuts contain healthy fats, not like meats, including vitamins, minerals, and even proteins.
You’ll get the best of nuts if you don’t buy them covered in chocolate, all sugared-up or salty. It’s best to buy them raw.
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Nuts store very well too, and placed in glass jars, they will keep longer and taste fresh whenever.