How to Create a Budget-Friendly Meal Plan Using Manchester's Local Markets

How to Create a Budget-Friendly Meal Plan Using Manchester's Local Markets

Moving to Manchester comes with challenges yet a variety of tasks which require personal attention. You cannot trust anyone else to look for student accommodation in Manchester or take a word for it. Isn’t it? 

There are plenty of tasks you have to figure out before coming to Manchester. One of which is setting a budget. As a student, especially international students, balancing is what you require when moving to a new city. Be it any city, there are certain necessary expenses you cannot skip. For instance, student housing in Manchester or a meal plan as you cannot survive without food. 

Thankfully, Manchester is one of the most affordable cities as compared to other cities in the United Kingdom. As you prepare a budget for a place to live, college fees and more, meal planning is also important. And, being a budget-conscious student, finding nutritious and tasty meals on a tight budget can be challenging. However, with vibrant and affordable local markets in Manchester, you can create a meal plan which fits your budget. This blog will guide you in creating a budget-friendly meal plan without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Let’s dive in!

Identify the Local Markets in Manchester

You might find many grocery stores near your long-term or short-term student accommodation in Manchester. However, they might be a little expensive. Hence, it is important to explore local markets rather than buying groceries from supermarkets. With a variety of unique selections, some of the best-rated and budget friendly markets are: 

• Arndale Market: If you are living in student housing in Manchester’s city center, this is the market to hunt. You can get fresh fruits, meats, international ingredients and more. Plus, when you buy in bulk, shoppers offer great discounts which is ideal for meal planning. 

• Longsight Market: The next is this market which is quite famous for affordable produce, spices and fresh meat. And, if you are a great bargainer, then this will become your go-to place in no time. 

• New Smithfield Market: This is one market which is great if you visit in the morning. As a result, you can source fresh vegetables, meat and more at unbeatable prices. 

• Levenshulme Market: This particular market is a weekly market which is open on Saturday only.  Run by a local community, you can get local dairy, artisanal items and more. 

Focus on Seasonal Ingredients

The next thing you should often do while meal planning is to focus on seasonal ingredients. This step is necessary for various reasons. First, you can source fresh products. Further, seasonal ingredients are more affordable compared to out of season items. In short, before you head to your favorite local market, make sure to check the vegetables of the season. 

By centering your meal planning on seasonal ingredients, you can enjoy different tastes in every season. For instance, during summer, berries, tomatoes and leafy greens are staple foods. While cabbage, sweet potatoes, carrots and others are often available in autumn. 

Bulk Buying Always Come Handy

When you try to get ample nutrition and taste at budget-friendly prices, bulk buying is the best thing. Considering this being one of the best ways to save time and money, you can prepare your meals in advance. Mostly, New Smithfield or Longsight are great for bulk shopping, especially for staples like beans, lentils, meat and more. In addition, you can batch-cook meals like curries, soups, stews and more. As a result, this will reduce the time and ensure your meals are budget friendly. 

Focus on Vegetarian Options

The majority of food costs come when you focus more on meat consumption. Simply put, the cost of meat is always higher than vegetarian options. Hence, reducing meat consumption can be one of the easiest ways to cut down costs.  

You can shift to plant-based proteins like beans, tofu and more. Plus, you can eat meat one or two times a day. Or you can try going on meat-free days where you focus on vegetarian options. Some popular vegetarian options with high protein include:

• Chickpea

• Vegetable Curry

• Lentil Soup with fresh vegetables

• Stuff zucchinis or peppers. 

Take Advantage of Discounts & Bargains 

There is no item which doesn’t come with a bargain or discounts. Local markets near your student accommodation in Manchester often offer discounts at the end of the day. For instance, vendors are keen to sell their remaining stocks. Hence, try to shop late or at the end of the day to get better deals and discounts. Moreover, some vendors might offer discounts on ugly produce. 

Keep it Simple

You don’t require fancy meals to get yummy food. Try to build your meal plan around simple and cost effective ingredients. Use simple recipes which include basic items rather than fancy ingredients like avocado or dragon fruit. Here are some ideas:

• Veggie Pasta

• Omelets 

• Stir-Fried rice

• Frittata and more. 

Stick to your Budget

Since you are aware of markets and affordable items, set a weekly budget and stick to it. Track your spending through applications and plan accordingly. This practice will help you to make a shopping list beforehand and plan as per your budget. Plus, you get the best value for money. 

Average Cost of Living

While there is a cost for food and grocery, you should be aware of other costs as well. Some of these include:

• Cost of Student Housing in Manchester: £400-£800/ month

• Food or Grocery Expenses: £260-£480/ month.

• Cost of Gas and Electricity: £150-£250/ month

• Expenses of Internet & Mobile phone: £70-£150/ month

• Cost of Dinner at a restaurant: £110-£230/ month

• Laundry Costs: £20-£30/ month

• Cost of Travel (Buses, Trams, and Trains): £180-£280/ month

At last, we can tell you buying at local markets and using our tips will help you to create a budget-friendly meal plan. Be it you want simple meals with high nutrition or fancy meals, you can cook what you wish for. Not only will you save money but will enjoy the fresh flavor of the city. So, get out of your student accommodation in Manchester & explore while supporting local vendors. Happy cooking!