Are you tired of eating the same old dishes? Want to spice up your meals without breaking the bank? Look no further than these money-saving recipes from around the world! Cooking globally not only expands your taste buds, but it can also save you money by using affordable ingredients found locally.

1. Mexican Black Bean Burritos 🌯🌶️

This vegan-friendly recipe puts a spin on traditional Mexican cuisine by using black beans as the base instead of meat. Black beans are a great source of protein and fiber, making them a healthy alternative. Add in some veggies like onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, and you have a delicious and filling meal.

Recipe:

  • 1 can of black beans
  • 1 diced onion
  • 1 diced bell pepper
  • 1 diced tomato
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Flour tortillas

A burrito with black beans, onions, and bell peppers

2. Japanese Gyudon 🍚🥩

Gyudon, a popular Japanese dish, consists of thinly sliced beef strips cooked in a soy sauce-based broth and served over rice. It’s one of the easiest dishes to make and can be done in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prepping and can be easily reheated.

Recipe:

  • 1 lb thinly sliced beef
  • 1 onion
  • 1 cup of water
  • 2 tbsp of sugar
  • 4 tbsp of soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp of sake
  • Steamed rice

A bowl of gyudon with beef strips and onions over rice

3. Indian Chana Masala 🍛🌶️

Chana Masala is a popular Indian dish that consists of chickpeas cooked in a spicy tomato-based sauce. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also vegan-friendly and cheap to make. Serve it over rice or with some naan bread for a satisfying meal.

Recipe:

  • 2 cans of chickpeas
  • 1 onion
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 1 tbsp grated ginger
  • 1 can of diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp of garam masala
  • Salt and pepper to taste

A bowl of chana masala with chickpeas in a tomato-based sauce

4. Italian Pasta Carbonara 🍝🥓

Pasta carbonara is a classic Italian dish that’s incredibly easy to make. It consists of pasta, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and bacon - ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner that’s both delicious and budget-friendly.

Recipe:

  • 8 oz spaghetti
  • 6 slices of bacon
  • 2 cloves of garlic
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

A plate of pasta carbonara with spaghetti, bacon, and Parmesan cheese

5. Chinese Fried Rice 🍚🥕

Fried rice is a staple dish in Chinese cuisine that’s incredibly versatile. You can make it with any vegetables and protein you have on hand, making it perfect for using up any leftovers. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch your dollar by using rice as the base.

Recipe:

  • 2 cups of cooked rice
  • 1 onion
  • 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tbsp of soy sauce
  • Salt and pepper to taste

A plate of Chinese fried rice with rice, mixed vegetables, and eggs

Try out these money-saving recipes from around the world for a flavorful and affordable meal. Your taste buds (and your wallet) will thank you!

A collage of the five dishes mentioned above