Budget-Friendly Meal Ideas: Feeding Four for £5 with a ‘Starving Student’
In the midst of rising living costs, many Londoners are on the lookout for ways to cut down on their food expenses. One woman, however, claims to have cracked the code with some pocket-friendly recipes that could ease the burden for a family of four. Lauren Leyva, a former architecture student turned full-time food entrepreneur, has gained popularity online with her simple recipes that can serve four people for less than £5. Her business, The Starving Student, focuses on creating low-waste meals that are both affordable and delicious.
Lauren’s journey into the world of cooking began at a young age, influenced by her Spanish father. “My dad started teaching me how to cook when I was just four years old,” she recalls. “Cooking has always been our way of bonding, and it’s what initially led me to share food photos on social media.” Her innovative approach to cooking struck a chord with a wide audience, especially during the lockdowns imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With people compelled to cook at home using limited ingredients, Lauren’s budget-friendly and waste-reducing recipes gained immense popularity.
One of her most renowned creations, a simple tomato soup recipe, has garnered over a million views online. “That tomato soup recipe brought in 16,000 new followers on social media, with over 20,000 people saving the recipe. I can make four portions of it for under £5,” she reveals. The appeal of the recipe lies in its simplicity, requiring only garlic, tomatoes, and red pepper to create a delicious roasted tomato, red pepper, and garlic soup that is both economical and easy to prepare.
In addition to sharing her recipes, Lauren also offers valuable tips on saving money during grocery shopping. “Check the lower shelves at the supermarket for cheaper, unbranded products. Look at the price per 100g or unit to find the best deals,” she advises. She suggests stocking up on long-lasting items like tinned or jarred foods and advocates for batch cooking as a time and money-saving strategy. “Batch cooking is especially beneficial for students and busy families. Spend one evening preparing two large meals and freeze portions for later consumption.”
Lauren is dedicated to minimising food waste, emphasising that wasted food equates to wasted money. By extending the lifespan of food through proper planning and organisation, individuals can significantly reduce their grocery expenses. She encourages meal prepping, maintaining an orderly fridge, and avoiding impulsive purchases by sticking to a shopping list. Lauren’s commitment to helping others save money and reduce waste is evident in the meal planners available on her website, designed to inspire and assist those seeking kitchen-related guidance.
With her passion for cooking and dedication to promoting budget-friendly and waste-conscious meals, Lauren hopes to continue inspiring individuals in need of culinary assistance. Through her practical advice and delicious recipes, she aims to empower others to enjoy good food without breaking the bank or contributing to unnecessary food wastage.