An African household saying from parent to child when we wanted to grab a quick McDonald’s on the way home, especially if there were leftovers in the fridge.
Sometimes Mum’s money didn’t stretch far enough for a takeaway, which wasn’t good for us anyway. We were kids back then and didn’t understand money, it just magically appeared when we needed it. Fast forward to being a parent myself and these same words are being said to me every weekend.
The £4.69 Happy Meal isn’t much, but it quickly adds up, especially when I know there’s rice at home.
To make a meal at home that will truly make your pocket happy will be a cost of £2.10 per head. In my household of four, there are always leftovers even more savings for lunch for the next day.
The world of convenience means we now have access to everything without stepping foot outside the house. Things like furniture, food, alcohol, clothes and two-piece chicken meals are just one click away on your smartphone.
The fast-food industry now has direct access to our pockets with apps like UberEats, JustEat and Deliveroo. Fast food is often loaded with trans fats, excessive salt, and sugars, which can lead to so many health issues such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.
Rice, on the other hand, is a versatile staple that can be a part of a balanced diet. It’s a source of energy, and when paired with a variety of vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, it becomes a nutritional powerhouse that fuels your body without unnecessary additives. My personal favourite is stir-fried or jollof which people find a little too spicy.
The temptation is always lingering but be mindful that your budget is key.
Yes, it’s not always fun or exciting to cook from scratch, but it’s a great opportunity to show your kids healthy eating habits. you’re not only choosing a healthier option but also a more economical one. A bag of rice can last for several meals, offering a cost per serving that is a fraction of what you would pay for a single fast-food meal.
It’s a good way to track your spending if you stick to a single line for groceries on your budget.
So, next time you’re out and about alone or with the kids and feel the need to grab a quick treat just because it’s the weekend. Just ask yourself, is there rice at home? AKA leftovers.
