1. Spanish Patatas Bravas – A Crispy, Budget-Friendly Treat

Patatas Bravas is a popular Spanish tapas dish that is both cheap and easy to make. These crispy potatoes served with a simple spiced tomato sauce make for a delicious snack or side dish.

Ingredients:

• 3–4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tin (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Boil the potatoes for 5 minutes, then drain and let them dry.
2. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan and fry the potatoes until golden and crispy.
3. In another pan, heat the remaining oil and saute the onion and garlic.
4. Add the chopped tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper, then simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Serve the crispy potatoes with the tomato sauce on top.

Tip: Add a dollop of mayonnaise or a sprinkle of chilli flakes for extra flavour.

2. Indian Pakoras – Crispy and Affordable Bites

Pakoras are a classic Indian snack made with vegetables coated in a spiced chickpea flour batter and deep-fried. They’re quick, tasty, and ideal for using up leftover vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup chickpea flour (gram flour)
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp turmeric
• ½ tsp chilli powder (optional)
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 small potato, grated
• Handful of spinach (or any vegetable)
• Water, as needed
• Salt, to taste
• Oil, for frying

Method:

1. Mix the chickpea flour, spices, and salt in a bowl.
2. Add the vegetables and enough water to create a thick batter.
3. Heat oil in a pan and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the oil.
4. Fry until golden brown, then drain on paper towels.
5. Serve with yoghurt or a simple chutney.

Tip: Pakoras are great for freezing – simply reheat in the oven when needed.

3. Mexican Street Corn (Elotes) – A Savoury, Budget-Friendly Snack

Elotes, or Mexican street corn, is an affordable snack bursting with flavour. Grilled or boiled corn is coated with a simple sauce and topped with spices and cheese.

Ingredients:

• 2 corn on the cob
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• ½ tsp paprika or chilli powder
• 50g grated cheese (cheddar or feta)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Boil or grill the corn until tender.
2. Mix mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
3. Brush the mixture over the corn and sprinkle with cheese and paprika.
4. Serve warm with extra lime wedges.

Tip: If you don’t have corn on the cob, mix the toppings with tinned sweetcorn for a similar flavour.

4. Middle Eastern Hummus – A Healthy and Cheap Dip

Hummus is a creamy chickpea dip that is perfect with bread, crackers, or raw vegetables. It’s high in protein, easy to make, and much cheaper than store-bought versions.

Ingredients:

• 1 tin (400g) chickpeas, drained
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Water, as needed

Method:

1. Blend all ingredients in a food processor, adding water until smooth.
2. Drizzle with extra olive oil before serving.
3. Serve with toasted pitta bread or vegetable sticks.

Tip: Add a pinch of paprika or a spoonful of yoghurt for extra flavour.

5. Italian Bruschetta – A Fancy Snack on a Budget

Bruschetta is a simple Italian snack that turns basic ingredients into something delicious. It’s perfect for using up stale bread and makes a great light bite.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of bread (stale bread works well)
• 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried basil or oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Method:

1. Toast the bread slices until golden.
2. Mix tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, herbs, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Spoon the mixture onto the toasted bread.
4. Serve immediately.

Tip: Add a little grated cheese on top and place under the grill for a delicious variation.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Spanish Patatas Bravas is a tasty, budget-friendly potato dish with a simple tomato sauce.
• Indian Pakoras are crispy, spiced vegetable fritters made with cheap pantry ingredients.
• Mexican Elotes are flavourful corn on the cob topped with a tangy, cheesy sauce.
• Middle Eastern Hummus is an affordable and healthy dip perfect for snacks.
• Italian Bruschetta is a simple, tasty way to use up leftover bread.

These budget-friendly nibbles from around the world are proof that great food doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Carers can enjoy delicious international flavours without overspending by using simple, affordable ingredients. For more cost-saving meal ideas, visit CarersCardUK.