Food prices are on the rise, and it can be difficult to maintain a healthy and balanced diet without breaking the bank. However, there are many ways you can make cheaper substitutions for expensive ingredients without sacrificing quality or flavor. Here are a few examples of how you can make cheaper substitutions in your cooking and reduce your food bills:

1. Use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs when cooking. Dried herbs are usually cheaper and have a longer shelf life.
2. Instead of using pre-cut vegetables, buy whole vegetables and cut them yourself. Whole vegetables are often cheaper than pre-cut options.
3. Swap out expensive meats like steak or lamb for cheaper options like chicken or pork.
4. Use frozen vegetables instead of fresh vegetables when they are not in season. Frozen vegetables are often cheaper and still have a good nutritional value.
5. Use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes in recipes. Canned tomatoes are usually cheaper and have a longer shelf life.
6. Swap out expensive spices like saffron for cheaper options like paprika or turmeric.
7. Use oats instead of quinoa in recipes. Oats are often cheaper and can be used in a variety of dishes.
8. Use dried fruit instead of fresh fruit in recipes. Dried fruit is often cheaper and has a longer shelf life.
9. Use applesauce instead of oil in baking recipes. Applesauce is often cheaper and adds moisture to baked goods.
10. Swap out expensive nuts like almonds for cheaper options like peanuts or cashews.
11. Use canned coconut milk instead of fresh coconut milk in recipes. Canned coconut milk is often cheaper and has a longer shelf life.
12. Use dried legumes like lentils or chickpeas instead of expensive canned beans in recipes. Dried legumes are often cheaper and have a longer shelf life.