12 Budget Dinner Recipes for Families

These low cost meals are perfect for feeding a family without spending too much money.

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried brown lentils, rinsed and sorted
• 2 large yellow onions, finely diced for maximum caramelization
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed and minced
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (look for the tube variety for less waste)
• 32 oz homemade vegetable scrap stock
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar to brighten the finish
• 1 tsp dried oregano, crushed between palms

Instructions

1. Step 1: Toast the dry lentils in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until they smell nutty and look slightly polished.
2. Step 2: Remove lentils and add oil; sauté onions until they reach a deep amber color, which provides the foundational sweetness for the dish.
3. Step 3: Stir in tomato paste and cook until it sticks to the bottom and turns dark red, then deglaze with a splash of stock, scraping up all the brown bits.
4. Step 4: Add lentils and remaining stock; simmer partially covered until lentils are tender but not bursting, usually about 25 minutes.
5. Step 5: Turn off the heat and stir in the vinegar and fresh herbs; let it sit for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.