5 VEGAN MEALS UNDER £1($1.50) | Budget-friendly Recipes for Beginners
Recipes in this Video
Dahl is a staple in Indian cuisine, often served with rice or bread. It is a comforting dish that showcases the versatility of lentils, which are a primary source of protein in vegetarian diets. Traditionally, dahl is enjoyed daily in many Indian households, highlighting its significance in both everyday meals and festive occasions. Today, variations of dahl are popular worldwide, celebrated for their rich flavors and health benefits.
Ingredients
- ●red lentils
- ●onion
- ●garlic
- ●ginger
- ●tomato
- ●coconut milk
- ●vegetable broth
- ●cumin seeds
- ●turmeric
- ●coriander
- ●cayenne pepper
- ●salt
- ●cilantro
- ●lime juice
- ●oil
Instructions
- 1Rinse red lentils under cold water until water runs clear.
- 2Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- 3Add cumin seeds and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- 4Stir in chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- 5Add minced garlic and ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- 6Add diced tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 5 minutes.
- 7Stir in turmeric, coriander, and cayenne pepper, cooking for 1 minute.
- 8Add rinsed lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
- 9Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until lentils are tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- 10Stir in coconut milk and salt, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
- 11Remove from heat and stir in lime juice and chopped cilantro.
- 12Serve hot with rice or naan.
Ingredient Alternatives
coconut milk
Healthier: almond milk
Cheaper: water + cornstarch
Almond milk reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.
red lentils
Healthier: green lentils
Cheaper: yellow lentils
Green lentils are often less expensive and provide a similar texture.
Techniques
Equipment
Also Known As
Originating from China, stir-frying is a quick cooking method that preserves the vibrant colors and nutrients of vegetables. Traditionally, it allows for seasonal ingredients to shine and is often enjoyed as a communal dish. Today, vegetable stir fry has gained global popularity, with variations reflecting local tastes and available produce.
Ingredients
- ●mixed vegetables
- ●soy sauce
- ●ginger
- ●garlic
- ●sesame oil
- ●green onions
- ●bell peppers
- ●carrots
- ●broccoli
- ●snap peas
- ●tofu
- ●cornstarch
- ●water
- ●rice or noodles
Instructions
- 1Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until very hot.
- 2Add sesame oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- 3Add ginger and garlic, sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- 4Add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- 5Add soy sauce and toss to coat the vegetables evenly.
- 6If using tofu, add it now and stir gently to combine.
- 7Mix cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then add to the pan.
- 8Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- 9Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions.
- 10Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Ingredient Alternatives
mixed vegetables
Healthier: fresh vegetables
Cheaper: frozen vegetables
Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and nutrition.
soy sauce
Healthier: low-sodium soy sauce
Cheaper: tamari
Low-sodium options reduce sodium intake.
sesame oil
Healthier: olive oil
Cheaper: canola oil
Olive oil offers healthier fats.
tofu
Healthier: tempeh
Cheaper: seitan
Tempeh provides a protein-rich alternative.
Techniques
Equipment
Also Known As