Ep 3. Plant-Based Budget Meals

In Struggle Meals season 2 episode 3, host Frankie Celenza explores plant-based budget meals, highlighting the benefits of reducing meat intake while also saving money on groceries. Frankie kicks off the episode by visiting a local farmers market to gather fresh produce, emphasizing the importance of strategic shopping to stay within a budget.

Next, Frankie prepares a variety of plant-based meals that are both budget-friendly and delicious. He starts with a simple yet flavorful lentil soup, adding a touch of cumin and paprika for added depth of flavor. For his next dish, Frankie whips up a hearty kale salad, featuring roasted sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and a homemade lemon vinaigrette.

The episode also features a recipe for vegan chili, which Frankie makes using canned beans and tomatoes. He adds veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for texture and nutrition, and serves the chili atop a bed of rice for a filling and satisfying meal.

In addition to main courses, Frankie also creates several tasty snacks and desserts using plant-based ingredients. He makes a batch of homemade hummus, instructing viewers on how to get the perfect texture and adding a touch of smoked paprika for flavor. Frankie also shows viewers how to make a healthy banana bread using buckwheat flour, almond milk, and ripe bananas.

Throughout the episode, Frankie emphasizes the importance of using whole ingredients and avoiding processed foods when possible, both for health and for cost savings. He also encourages viewers to experiment with different spices and herbs to make their plant-based meals more interesting and flavorful.

Overall, Struggle Meals season 2 episode 3 offers a variety of delicious and affordable plant-based meal ideas, proving that eating well on a budget is both achievable and enjoyable.