# The $3 Rice Bowl That Beats Takeout

Rice bowls are the ultimate budget meal. Customize them however you like!

• Rice is incredibly cheap
• Versatile and filling
• Great for meal prep
• Use whatever vegetables you have
• Tastes better than it costs

2 cups of rice = $0.50

Cook according to package. Pro tip: add a pinch of salt to the water.

Rice cooker or pot method both work fine.

Fried egg - $0.30

• Cheapest and quickest option
• Runny yolk makes its own sauce

Canned beans - $0.50

• Black beans or chickpeas
• Rinse and heat with cumin

Ground meat - $1.50

• If you're feeling fancy
• Season with soy sauce and garlic

Use what's on sale! Total: ~$1.00

Fresh options:

• Shredded cabbage
• Sliced cucumber
• Cherry tomatoes
• Shredded carrots

Cooked options:

• Frozen mixed vegetables
• Sautéed onions
• Roasted broccoli

Mix together:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oil
• 1 tsp vinegar
• Pinch of sugar

Cost: $0.20

1. Add rice to bowl

2. Top with protein

3. Arrange vegetables

4. Drizzle sauce

5. Enjoy!

Make 5 bowls on Sunday:

• Cook big batch of rice
• Prep all vegetables
• Store components separately
• Assemble when ready to eat

This saves time AND money during the week.

Asian Style:

• Soy sauce + sesame oil
• Add kimchi if you have it

Mexican Style:

• Salsa + hot sauce
• Top with cilantro

Mediterranean Style:

• Olive oil + lemon juice
• Add feta if affordable

Mix it up so you never get bored!