What I Ate On $1.50 a Day // Budget Friendly Vegan Meals (Days 1-3)

[@abigailkinghorn4707]

This is the only person I've seen do this who didn't do shit like "And I added a little of my $500 truffle infused caviar for just a bit of flavor". She actually honest to god stuck with her ingredients.

[@mp5249]

Abigail Kinghorn she needed some packets of bbq from fast food or something. "The packet drawer" ( I wouldn't know, I think we ate fast food a couple of times, and we were middle class)

[@vanleeuwenhoek]

"And then I put these humble beans in my Instant Pot, which retails from anywhere between $60 and $150. And I was able to turn this week-long experience into a paper for my Subaltern Ethnographies Course, which retails for $2500 a credit hour."

[@omegajackson]

M P yyyessss exactly

[@aliciabrumlow4412]

vanleeuwenhoek She has an instant pot, but you can just cook your beans on the stove if you don’t have one. We have one, but we couldn’t afford to buy one, so my mother in law bought one for us for Christmas. Use what you have. :)

[@biancagrijalva2091]

AliciaBrumlow i got a 20cup rice cooker @ a thrift store for 5$ & i cook everything in it!!! Even pizza! Lol

[@ImSupposedToSleep]

I didn't think about the effects of being hungry on your daily life. It made me realize that it can become a vicious circle when you don't have enough money to spend on health and food. Your education suffers from it and that makes it harder to get out of poverty.

[@x9102-k2t]

I guess not only that but if you're a mum - your kid suffers too.. from lack of energy to pay attention to them - and also if you're a mum and breastfeeding - I mean - your kid might just have developmental brain issues from malnutrition or something

[@irissasa6525]

I'm there .

[@afrinsayed5902]

Welcome to the life of students in third world country.

[@Makiaveli01]

Babette Vlaeminck “nothing a little hard work can’t fix”- right wingers

[@Turgid_Spleenis]

@varick wettlaufer Not true.

[@oohbintyboo]

I really appreciate you raising the point about not being able to concentrate. When I was teaching, I had to regularly stock my room with granola bars because my growing middle school boys were often hungry and would be unable to concentrate. This often leads to "acting out" and unless you take a step back and realize that they need their basic needs met, it was easy for other teachers to just discipline these students when in reality they hadn't eaten (sometimes in days). I hope others will do this challenge too because this conversation is so important. Thank you :)

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

That's so sad...several other people have messaged me telling me stories like this. I feel so blessed to have had a good education, shelter, and a supportive family growing up

[@mayaj291]

Brittany Hemingway there were a few of my teachers like that k-12, they made sure we had breakfast, lunch and a snack.

[@mayaj291]

Brittany Hemingway especially for tests

[@monkeymoonky7900]

Brittany Hemingway God bless you

[@temporarythoughts]

Brittany Hemingway this is so lovely!

[@user-lf1os3sh5c]

Spices are a good investment for any one on a budget. They can elevate any meal to a whole new level. Start off with cayenne, paprika, cinnamon and cumin.

[@corrinnegarfield2460]

And adobo

[@WhyYoutubeWhy]

TURMERIC 1ST AND FOREMOST, then cumin and curry

[@charlied415]

Garlic!

[@grimicide]

Onion powder

[@sapphiresapphic]

@@corrinnegarfield2460 Adobo is no lie the best shit ever, I swear by it

[@bsummers1386]

I grew up hella poor and my mom would turn regular rice into Spanish rice and damnnnn that shit is amazing. Spices really do save your food.

[@monkeymoonky7900]

We used soy sauce/hot pepper paste but that shit gets tiring when you eat it everyday with rice.

[@BleedTheWineUnholy]

Her goal was to stay under a budget of $1.50 a day, so $1 on spices would have starved her. Spices can be cheap, but a lot of people still can't afford them.

[@christophertaggart4921]

Michelle Eva ,Spanish rice is reg rice

[@bsummers1386]

christopher taggart regular rice is white rice 🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄

[@kelsiewadsworth1209]

What are the ingredients for the Spanish rice? I'd like to make it!

[@MiVidaBellisima]

I like that she actually cared to make an attempt to understand someone else's lifestyle and struggles. Much respect

[@carolynnalvarez7032]

Me too, super genuine and sweet young lady.

[@WeWillBeRemembered]

I really appreciate your honesty about the food and the acknowledgement of the privilege many of us have with affording healthy food. You put yourself in an uncomfortable challenge to truly recognize a worldwide problem first hand, and I think that's very commendable. Really enjoying the series.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

thank you so much :)

[@dangermouse6758]

Caitlin Shoemaker just a head's up to you and everyone else be aware of canned tomatoes because the aluminum of the can leeches into the food especially canned tomatoes because they are acidic, aluminum is one of the most toxic metals to the body and this in the form of canned tomatoes can be cancerous sorry not meaning to scare or alarm anyone just thought to mention for those that do not know. God Bless

[@marioarias9942]

Danger Mouse also check sodium levels they tend to be very high with anything tomato in cans.

[@thrivesurvive]

I was going to say the same thing.

[@pappajohndodgybob]

Uncomfortable challenge? It was a detox at best! A TRULY "uncomfortable challenge" would be to live like that for a month, NOT have the convenience of a car to go to the shops, NOT use running water, and have to scrape the money together to pay for the food! I'm guessing that $7.50 was to her just one latte at her favourite store! BTW how much money from this video actually went to the poor & needy? Zero I'm guessing! What a CYNICAL EXPLOITATIVE BITCH .

[@deadsoon]

This is more food than I ate when I still lived in Venezuela. Sometimes it'd only be rice and ketchup, or yam and plantains. Chicken was a luxury. Vegetables were scarce. Fruit was almost like dream. Even water, sometimes.

[@theilliad4298]

im so sorry you had to go through that. i hope everything is better

[@fbb119b.3]

I hope you're living a better life

[@Rhuddem000]

I am living in Venezuela, and sadly I can relate. It's honestly so fucking hard. But good for you that you're in a better place now

[@beautifullybroken4879]

@@Rhuddem000 I hope you can get out soon

[@reinasampson4840]

Maruzca oh my gosh. My family and used to live in Guatemala and we never had meat unless a villager brought us meat. We’d simmer beans and eat those with rice or have potatoes and fresh corn and an occasional soup.

[@TaraShulerAuthor]

Having grown up in poverty, I LOVE this video. I used to eat mostly ramen noodles and beans and rice, and it was boring and definitely didn't satisfy me. As a consequence, I really appreciate food more. In fact, I gained a LOT of weight when I was able to start buying my own food. I'm working on eating healthier, but I still don't have a ton of money even though I'm better off than my parents were for sure. I love fruits and veggies, so that helps. Thanks for these videos!

[@WhatSayYouLandLubbers]

The G Family oh my God I TOTALLY get where you're coming from. My family actually went vegetarian for awhile because meat was too expensive. My mom made her own hummus so that was our protein most of the time.

[@vampireleniore]

Same for me. I still can't eat packaged ramen because I'm still so burned out on it.

[@harleykelevra515]

I'm glad somebody gets it. growing up poor I definitely love food so much more as an adult. I actually ended up practically addicted to soda. I was drinking like a twelve pack a day but not gaining any weight and it took a long time to realise that I had actually developed an eating disorder. turns out a combination of being preme and malnourished I have no sensation in my stomach's so I can't tell if I'm hungry or full. so I was self medicating with sugar and caffeine for energy but wasn't actually nurishing my body and I would go days without eating without ever feeling hungry until I finally decided I should and I would throw up because I couldn't tell if I was full or not. I had to learn to remind myself. weigh my meals and spread them it through the day without relying on junk food Wich was so much cheaper and readily available. I'm fine now, a healthy 130, and I haven't even thought about my eating disorder in months but it was a struggle to get here

[@milaanouska9810]

She basically just made beans nd rice though

[@js44cana]

The G Family At least you had ramen 💀

[@icannotchoose]

I think being honest about the difficulties of the challenge of important to show why poverty is such a huge issue.

[@visuaIkei]

Drama_Llama_5000 Its so sad this is what a lot of people go through and have to eat everydau

[@youwhatmadeidk]

It actually not. You’re trying this in a Western country, where prices of food are more expensive. Try this in an Asian country, where they’re not very developed but have very cheap produce. They can feed their whole family each day, without being calorie deficient...

[@lumen8341]

hey dingdong, we're dealing with the poverty in this country FROM PRICES BEING EXPENSIVE

[@youwhatmadeidk]

Mandy C. If you mean Western countries, no you are not. Unless you’re trying to conform to some fancy diet, you can buy food very cheap in countries such as the U.K. and USA.

[@ideljenny]

20 sek a day (Swedish for $1.50) will not get you 3 meals a day. Even if you completely cheapskate it and eat like a bird like she does. I'm always amazed at how cheap food seems to be in the US.

[@Thestarrycherry]

This really makes me think about the children who do not have the privilege of adequate nutrition and how it affects their mental, emotional and psychological being, thank you.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

Definitely, it's such a sad issue :(

[@kathrynashin7154]

Just what I was thinking while I watched this!

[@mattnlogan101]

It really makes me think how glad I am to be rich and a meat eater.

[@bstmeg5237]

tho you can be rich and well fed and still struggle with mental illness or you can eat vegan and be unhealthy or eat junk food and seem healthy. food doesn't cure mental illness but it sure helps to eat adequately

[@thisthingcalledlove8]

I grew up like that. Coming from a 3rd world country it was very difficult to have anything nutritious that wasn't expensive.

[@mufasaiii2455]

a great way to thicken soup is by adding potatoes. they're very filling, cheap and pretty healthy. just boil them really long to get them real mushy. or regular time boiling just for tatoes in your soup

[@corrinnegarfield2460]

Overcooking. Potatoes releases starches that can cause bloat and sometimes heartburn.

[@kristinsrowland8313]

I microwave them first for ten mins then u only need to cook em for about twenty minutes

[@sararazor982]

Wow it made me so sad when you were talking about being hungry at school and not being able to focus because it makes me think about kids who might be hungry at school.😢 it’s good that you shed light on this

[@mp5249]

Right in the Beans that's why schools offer free breakfast and lunch

[@alexlodge2983]

@@mp5249 Only if your parents apply for the free or reduced lunch programs at the school. It takes a lot of time to research what help is available them and navigate the system. The application process is difficult and time consuming. They simply don't have the time or energy to do so. Plus they're generally only available on school days. You cool with not eating on Sat, Sun, holidays and all summer?

[@rajalakshmisukumar2801]

Always Changing artist G l

[@KR-gi2co]

@@alexlodge2983 the process itself takes five minutes, it's very quick. Many people also lie about their income in order to let their kids receive these free lunches (gotta do what you gotta do). Recently there have also been breakfast in class which doesn't require any application

[@katharinerobert8378]

@@alexlodge2983 At my kids local school the application is one single form and that puts you into the application for both free and reduced lunches. All kids at their school get free bfast no questions asked. They also offer free bfast and lunch all summer long (as long as you can get to the school, which in my neighborhood kids can walk there, it's very close). I felt bad when my kids got free bfast there because they did not need it but I am very happy that they offer it to all the kids no questions asked - and I am sure that any 'left overs' go to waste if not eaten. I am packing up all my kids uniforms after school ends tomorrow from the last year that no longer fit and are in good condition to donate to the school for the kids that need them.

[@esmeraelillywing612]

I sincerely appreciate your bringing attention to this topic. It's a real struggle, people seem to gorge themselves on the regular, and don't realize what truly poor people go through. My little family (hubby, me and our 7yr old son) went through a really bad time for about two years. I couldn't work because of illness and my husband for part of it had a very low paying job, and then no job at all for a while. We had to walk three miles up a hill to get something from a store because we didn't have gas in the car, nor insurance on it, obviously. Any gas we had had to be used to get him back and forth to work. I often couldn't buy groceries at all and had to depend on local food banks. I thank goodness for them, so now I try and donate whenever I can because they kept us alive. More times than I can count, my husband or I (or both) wouldn't eat at all just to make sure our son did. I learned how to support 3 people for about $5 a day, that's all inclusive. I would make clothes, or repair and mend ones we had because we couldn't afford new clothing if something ripped or got stained. And we also didn't have running water in the house for about 4 months at one point. It was an incredibly depressing and painful time, neither of us likes to think about it, but I think it brought us closer together. I found out later that most couples break up over finance related issues, so now we joke that if we could survive that, we could survive anything together. :) Anyway, thank you again. This was much appreciated!!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

I'm so sorry you had to go through that, and am glad you are in a better place now. It was definitely an eye-opening experience

[@esmeraelillywing612]

Thank you :) I appreciate the kindness. But you know, in the end we are ok, and we learned some valuable lessons! Like how to appreciate what we have and not to overindulge because it's disrespectful to people in that situation. It also gives you a unique perspective on low income families. So often people talk about people on Medicaid or food stamps like they are trash, and I can tell you first hand that not only is that not true, but most people only use them while they truly need them, and don't take advantage of the situation. But videos like yours and challenges like this help bring awareness to the situation, and I really appreciate that!!

[@monkiram]

I think it's so admirable that your marriage survived through such an awful time, you must have a very healthy and strong relationship

[@nycolbebraddy]

Imaginary Winchester Your comment made me cry. It's beautiful that you and your husband got through such a rough time. Many people don't and aren't as strong as your family is. Happy to hear you guys are doing much better as well. This definitely inspired me to donate what I can to my local caring kitchen.

[@AFROcentricFLO]

Imaginary Winchester ma'am, you are so amazing. I'm a recent college graduate, and I have to financially think, plan, and improvise just the same. The stress has brought me to the same point many times but one day, I and my family will be able to live and eat what's best for us and our bodies.

[@Sam-gx5hb]

Should have cooked the rice with some tomatoes instead of adding it later. Also, taco seasoning is like 50 cents and a tiny amount in while cooking rhe rice adds a lot of flavor. Source: I lived this life.

[@nicoleraheem1195]

True. I put taco seasoning on jackfruit😫😌

[@agirly1503]

Taco seasoning is useful 😋

[@SharonGisselle]

As a poor college student, this video gave me many food ideas without breaking my bank. Thank you so much for this video.

[@nenahunt]

Watching this made me cry for all the people and children who cannot afford enough food. We take so much for granted and complain about nonsense when in reality we are the lucky ones. Another thing, in my household with just wastage alone could easily feed another person or two....I will share this video with my husband and extended family. I think more awareness is definitely needed. Thank you 👍😘

[@norahbradley5138]

Nevena H yeah this was hard for me to watch. I don’t tend to waste food, but I’ve never gone without food in my life. I went off to school and my mom made sure that I had a stocked pantry. Now I have a one year food pantry in my basement. I had a rough spot financially and ate out of that for eight months only buying pet food and eggs. I’ve fed four families at a time from my pantry when they fell on hard times. I just sent the cousin who i helped raise a four month supply of groceries. My daughter going hungry is one of my worst nightmares.

[@romeo3771]

@@norahbradley5138 yeah man here I starve to death

[@MadiMonkey1994]

You eat how I eat. But instead of beans and rice, we eat pasta almost every lunch and dinner. Sometimes I try to make something different, because my son gets tired of pasta. We just don't have the funds for that, though. I don't like saying that, but that's the way it is. After the week is over, my bank account is dry. I'm just thankful that I can feed my son. Just think. There is always someone who has it better than you; there is always someone who has it worse. We should be thankful.

[@thenoobyoutuber2490]

Madison White u're a great mom for doing ur best :) always remember that god is always here for u and that things will eventially get better ; much love

[@MariaGomez-qv6zc]

Madison White do you have a food bank near you? it would be great if you could supplement with a few things for the week. I think you have a great attitude!

[@MadiMonkey1994]

Yes, we do have a food bank. I actually volunteer there every year. Thank you. I give my all in having faith and staying positive. I know that things will get better in due time.

[@maxhztrukl231]

if you cannot even afford food, then do not breed, gosh...

[@emilym6994]

@Jeezy @Max Hztrukl You're rude

[@HistoryHighwithLisaMarrie]

I would have spent the 50 cents on an onion or a bell pepper to make the other food more bearable.

[@mikaylah7487]

Agreed, or maybe some garlic powder from the dollar tree if you can't buy fresh / minced garlic

[@quarterhorsgirl]

I was thiinking onion!

[@WithloveTrinize]

these people white

[@amber-dn5jk]

@@WithloveTrinize dude, race doesn't determine how much spice you use. My family's white, but I don't think i've ever had a plain home-made meal in my life

[@WithloveTrinize]

@@amber-dn5jk First.... I'm a lady. Second.. Congrats to you because if you went up the street to Sarah's house I'm sure they cooked with no onion and slap ya mama's seasoning.... people so sensitive now.

[@carmiethegreat]

It would be really cool if you could make a "vegan for a week" video that includes recipes and a "shopping list" based on a reasonable budget.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

That sounds like a great idea!

[@esmerivera3287]

Caitlin Shoemaker really hope you do this eventually 😭 just came across your channel and subbed but my bestfriend is vegan and I'm vegetarian transitioning to vegan after seven years and next year we hope to get a place together. As two full time college students who will be working as well I'm a little worried but overall curious about groceries/prices for a plant based lifestyle 🌱

[@hospitalcakewalk]

Reasonable meaning under $70 like most youtubers, or reasonable meaning actual reason like under $30 because that would be a challenge

[@ski1509]

J

[@RobinVanger]

Yes under 30 please because that is what I have to spend in a week because yea.. student life :")

[@stashaatherholt727]

You don't sound whinny, your just giving your honest opinion on what it's like to eat on 1.50 a day and how, what your making, really taste. It gives this video a realistic view on what it would be like

[@MiVidaBellisima]

Staisha Michelle more importantly it gives insight into what ppl who have to live this way are experiencing on a daily basis.

[@limeyfigdet7460]

Yeah, if it ain't pleasant, then that's even more reason to donate in order to help those poor kids.

[@kateemma22]

Your ‘whining’ was actually a great part because the simple fact is as good as these recipes are, living on $1.50 is impossible, and we need to start giving the poor a liveable wage. This is not liveable. Good on you for this vid.

[@kkoreatheempressayhung6764]

The whinning was very much understood riiiiiiight.

[@janejohn6473]

I feel like this is almost what an anorexic person eats and that's scary

[@JesusIsLove7777]

kateemma22 bananas oats and beans versus $5 mcdonalds meals is impossible?

[@keyworkmermaid1246]

@@JesusIsLove7777 you should be able to live in a decently healthy lifestyle. Fuck McDonald's

[@Chris-hn2md]

It's satire buh-ro

[@KaytlinGomez]

I lived on beans and rice my whole childhood 😂 honestly everything tastes good when you are starving 😭😂

[@jessicapineda117]

Midnight Swami amen sister

[@paolagarcia8298]

Factss

[@mishkeisha]

Midnight Swami my mom turns that stuff into dinner for the queen tbh

[@cassandra4238]

Really Madison Daily?! sounds like that's all they could afford. You're clearly not very intelligent, if you think that's what a child suffering is like...smh.

[@ricebeansrockroll882]

@Madison Daily nobody should have kids if they lack the mental capacity to raise them into better than assholes, but yours did anyway...

[@kaityparsons1212]

I love this. I feel like most vegan KZbinrs don't understand what balling on a budget actually means. You see so many "vegan grocery halls on a budget" videos where they spend like 100 dollars a week. I am a university student working 4 jobs just to pay rent and tuition, so 100 dollars a week is obscene.

[@kaityparsons1212]

not to invalidate truly unprivileged people, I know I am very privileged, I just appreciate this video since it is so much more realistic

[@tobe4real]

There are a lot of good cheaper ones you should check out

[@erikasolorio2468]

kaity parsons right im a single mom i try to keep my budget at 40 a week for my baby and i

[@izzywo3254]

1,162,055 views. half of these are broke college students.

[@josiebowlin5340]

Isabella Wommack, you right

[@skylargoodwin1880]

Guilty!

[@linu4070]

Yeah

[@daniellebarnes3124]

except not all college students are broke

[@ma.rlaros]

why you gotta expose me like that pal

[@corsicanlulu]

if ur poor like i am, u DEF. need to buy all the food u can in bulk!! u have to! i buy the spices i use the most in bulk, like garlic and onion powder. also brown rice, quinoa, lentils. yes it seems expensive at first but its worth it because the food can last for months and that always helps. amazon, and if u have club stores like bj's sams club u can go to them, or at least get a free one-day pass online and buy what u need online if u dont have one near u.

[@Brandiisbeloved]

corsican lulu btw dollar tree has seasoning or at least where I live for only a dollar. It’s the only way I can afford seasoning

[@ideljenny]

Have you ever heard of the work boots theory? If you're poor, its unlikely you have money available to buy in bulk, making everything paradoxicly more expensive.

[@KisabellaLopez]

:( unfortunately, the cost of signing up for bulk club stores like Costco would dent your food budget considerably. Sure, it's for a whole year and I'm sure you get your money back, but it would hurt to put it down all at once.

[@JabberJelly]

@@KisabellaLopez those memberships are def expensive especially if you're living on your own. What I do is: ask my friends or even my friends parents if they have a Costco, BJ's, or Sam's club memberships and if they do, I ask if I can tag along every few months so I can restock on bulk items that way I dont have to purchase my own memberships. SOMETIMES they do offer one day passes for new customers so I would look into that.

[@JabberJelly]

@@Brandiisbeloved If you have ethnic food stores near you, sometimes they sell everyday spices super cheap. I love to get most of my spices at my local Mexican store as they're $1 per packet of herb/spice and they last me a few months.

[@Leah-Owens]

These comments have me tearing up. I hope everyone can get out of their situation because those times I DO NOT MISS!

[@laughaholic13]

I grew up with an income of about $2000 for 4 people but I can't recall ever being hungry. My mom made sure we always had food to eat and my dad (who was the sole money maker) managed to make it work somehow. Now he makes like 120K can we appreciate that glow up! He did it all on his own too. Idk what the point was here lol maybe that things get better? My dad worked his ass off to make it better for us so I believe in working hard to make a good living cuz I saw it first hand.

[@andream.liverman6966]

It sounds like you have a lovely family. I'm glad your dad's hard work paid off for y'all.

[@laughaholic13]

Andrea M. Liverman thank you! I'm glad that he's living a life that he deserves 😊

[@o0Avalon0o]

What did your dad do? Start his own business? This seems like quite a big difference in salary, I'm sure people will love to know how to accomplish that.

[@laughaholic13]

@@o0Avalon0o We came to US on a visa and he used to work in a gas station and a dollar store. He wanted to be a doctor when he was younger but his dad refused to pay for his education so, after working at those places, he was fed up with it and learned computer science in his spare time and now he's a software engineer! They get paid a lot when you have the experience and good negotiating skills haha

[@thisismylovehandle]

We (5 people) live on one income of 2k/month net. Teachers pay in AZ. Sometimes, it takes hurts to tell your children to sleep best they can while they complain of hunger. We are often tired.. But we decided that it was worth it for me to stay home with the children and give them that greater education.

[@alexiazamora3500]

I’m so glad you were real with the fact that it wasn’t easy and it didn’t make you as full as you were used to. Thank you for this video!!

[@whitevelcro]

I have found an amazing key if you need more calories on a low budget is oil, particularly canola oil (soybean oil "vegetable oil" is pretty bad for you, canola is a lot better). I don't know what the prices are everywhere, but you can often get more than 5,000 calories per dollar from canola oil. Healthy fats are good for you and extremely satisfying. When Caitlin was talking about not feeling full, the whole time I was thinking "just add oil!"

[@raapyna8544]

White Velcro Yes, she was eating very little fat, and fat is what mostly keeps your brain going!

[@lauravaldez3829]

Going on an extreme budget. I just went from riches to rags.... no job. All my niceties completely out the window.... but although we fall down.... we can get back up! Meanwhile thank you for sharing... beans and rice and occasional ground beef with potatoes and corn I can do! I’m grateful in times of plenty and grateful in times of famine. Let’s do this!

[@softesthard8168]

laura valdez You got this, hermosa! Love your positivity. Wishing you the best.

[@MrsDVK]

Awesome attitude!

[@heysisters636]

laura valdez Wish you the best!!

[@mysterygirl2881]

I like the last statement: I'm grateful in times of plenty and I'm grateful in times of famine. For those who didn't know, these are the words of Apostol Paul.

[@ChainedFei]

Ground beef, potatoes and Corn is shepherds pie with some cheese.

[@keeweefabulous7094]

I appreciate the fact that you’re so open-minded to challenge yourself like this. Also so so so so grateful to hear your insight and basic understanding of how “the other half” (of course a lot more than that) lives. Honestly, I come from an area where majority of the people and I myself had to experience living with limited resources. It’s no joke. The main thing is learning to be grateful for all that you have. Great job and great video.

[@kokonodes903]

The only vegan youtuber I like cause she shows that we can be vegan on a low budget in comparison to other vegan youtubers who are extremely rich and she isn't raw

[@airari24]

Komal Shireen She's great, but there are more KZbin's like her! You should check them out

[@squirrel6536]

Cheap Lazy Vegan is also pretty awesome with a lot of (obviously) cheap, easy recipes.

[@limeyfigdet7460]

This girl is the realest vegan KZbinr that I've seen. People like Vegan Gains and Freelee use stuff like fancy protein powders and exotic seeds. Regular people like me who want to follow a vegetarian diet aren't always on the same page as those rich folks.

[@tothediaspora3905]

Investing in affordable spices and herbs makes even the simplest meals become incredible

[@outdoorgal9602]

Sprouts is a great place for spices because you can buy from their bulk spices and get just as little or much as you want. The bulk prices are also much cheaper than buying spices in a jar.

[@shannonkyle8064]

Agreed. You can buy spices, garlic, onions, and peppers pretty cheap to give food flavor. Eating that much white rice isn’t that good for you. It’s just filler and I cannot even entertain eating it, because I’m a diabetic. Her study is an eye opener, and she does state that she is grateful that this is not the norm for her.

[@sammermanorange]

realistically you need every calorie you can get on 1.50 a day.

[@molly104]

the comments here are amazing. this is what youtube should be. this is quality content, you are raising awareness of something that matters for you, you're sincere and honest about your intentions and present us with aesthetic and easy to watch videos. thank you. I was thinking today about the fact that so many of us are living above what is deemed to be normal and the opportunity to education is so taken for granted. I reflect on this far too little, thank you for bringing it to my attention as well as the privilege I have to adequate nutrition

[@tracyjusttracy8899]

There was a time when my children and I lived off of 2 five lb bags of flour a week..I had a few spices like cinnamon and garlic powder..and I had an oven..so I got creative .I made bread, pretzels, pancakes etc...We only had to eat like that for 1 week each month because we would run out of food.

[@KristenLeo]

I loved this video and I want it to go viral NOWWWW Also I think we all need to appreciate the creativity that went into making all of this delicious looking food with such an incredibly low budget and keeping it so real and honest. Cannot wait for the next one!!!!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

thank you so much Kristen, that means a lot coming from you!

[@alisonmartin3921]

Pasta recipes

[@captaindovestone3894]

Kristen Leo fantastic isn't it, I'm an Ovo vegetarian from England working towards full vegan and I love these simple life hacks

[@tanishaali2619]

It went viral

[@Dichtsau]

honestly? that food looks horrible to me and this i do not only say because i'm writing a vegan cookbook (with lots of cheap recipes). i'd rather buy a pack of toastbread, some tomatoes, some vegan mayo and a lettuce. if there's money leftover (maybe in the 2nd week) i'd cook southgerman medieval food: sauerkraut & potatobread. basically, i'd also say, eating beans & peanutbutter is healthy when it's about nutrition, but her frozen veggies have been a misbuy (not enough in the package + some of it is corn which doesn't feed you anything!) and also she misused the rice: if u eat rice, u need lots of it, so better buy more rice and just cook it with some veggie broth powder and eat it with nothing else; then the rice can be a cheap thing to keep the hunger away. PS: if u think in long terms and have a cool cellar, go get a sack of potatoes - they are lifesavers!

[@emilymelvin6631]

Having been very poor myself (and still am somewhat now) I’d just like to say most probably wouldn’t have a blender lol

[@letsgoalready5515]

Emily Melvin that is true but I found one on clearance for $4! It won’t blend ice but it is still a luxury to my family

[@o0Avalon0o]

@@q7jdwomfvkbj74 Salvation Army, especially in poor neighborhoods, inflate their prices to be equal to Walmart and box stores. Check out estate sales & garage sales for a blender for a dollar. Ask them to plug it into an outlet before you leave to make sure it works & doesn't smoke. Be friendly, ask them how the sale is going and treat them like kind and respectful people, they often will be happy to give you stuff for free or even invite you to lunch sometime as a friend. There's a lot of great people out there if you know how to look.

[@thisismylovehandle]

Yeah..or an instant pot. But I'm glad she has one. I saved for an entire year for my blender in my twenties. Got a Crock-Pot recently, in my thirties. So instant pot in my forties, hopefully!

[@smp6565]

Emily Melvin or that fancy cooking pot lol no idea what that is?!

[@ShelleySkyDoe]

Or a steamer/ rice cookers.

[@mariangelbriceno9724]

Hi Caitlin! I love that you did this challenge to find out how some people are living. What makes me very sad is knowing that most people in my country, Venezuela, can't even afford eating what you ate during that challenge, beans and peanut butter? That's what rich people eat. It's heartbreaking to see people starving because we don't deserve this. I would recommend you to research about the situation that Venezuelan people are going through and spread it, because most people aren't aware of that. Thank you for creating such an amazing content always, I love your channel and it has inspired to be a better person, I've been vegetarian for 4 months and it's been amazing, hopefully one day I'll be 100% vegan just as you❤️❤️

[@katieelizabethnelson921]

That's how bad the situation is in Venezuela it's heartbreaking.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

Thank YOU for watching! I totally agree with you, poverty is horrible and no one should be forced to live the way many people do.

[@marianat.4998]

No pude dejar de pensar en nuestro país con este vídeo, sobretodo cuando dijo que seguramente los niños no se pueden concentrar en clases. Le doy clases de inglés a niños de Petare y llegan con hambre. Es la triste y dura realidad, no prestan atención, están de mal humor y lo único que piden es comida. Qué tristeza esta situación, se me parte el corazón por toda nuestra gente pasando hambre 💔😔

[@emmalina3750]

im venezuelan too ❤️

[@anjelapatnaik]

can you find out if there is an easy way for those in US to make some donations to those in Venezuela? I'm not sure how to go about doing this in a way that cannot be stolen/lost.

[@39Bosski]

plantains for 15 cents? what the??! from Aldi's? i realize this is a couple of years ago, but what the???? that's a fantastic bargain. wow. well done.

[@Kingsusa]

Aldi's and Lidl's have similar, fantastic prices. They carry a significant amount of organic veggies and fruits.

[@SUKI23902]

Aldis is the shit

[@odette6328]

Wait what? I thought those are German supermarkets?!? I'm shook

[@shittymcrvids3119]

Aldi has pretty good quality food for very low prices, I love it

[@martiinnaaa]

I bought 8 avocados for $2 from Aldi’s a couple months ago

[@bigbird2299]

I just found this vid, and I really like how honest you are. I feel like most people would be like "I feel amazing, I'm gonna do this everyday" and you're like. " it's not the best. but, I at least get to eat" keep up the good work. :)

[@christinasmith8338]

Andréa Rosa I don't think many people would say they want to eat this way every day but I do agree people would claim they feel ok when they really don't. It is nice she was honest. :)

[@valeale2812]

cait i eat like that almost every day and it's so nice to see this, cause every other video seems to be full of expensive products 😞

[@lanadel-qf2qn]

Val T stay strong,you're killing it

[@charitybosua]

Cheap Lazy Vegan made a serie of videos like these. I found them very helpful :)

[@Deminutuv]

She doesn't usually eat expensive, just foods that are unavailable to some more left behind countries.

[@valeale2812]

lana del 1975 thank you, you are so lovely ❤️

[@valeale2812]

Charity Bosua yesss! i've watched them i love her :)

[@tsvetig.3793]

I'm impressed by how you managed to cook such good-looking food on a such low budget, you're so creative. Btw, I love your dimples, they're so cute :).

[@veganonabudget7214]

Tsveti G. Amen 🙏🏽 to that sister.

[@midnightcorresponden]

Hi Tsveti, thank u for choosing a life of veganism..I'm a vegan singer songwriter that would love to introduce other vegans to my music...if ur interested in hearing some brilliant folk-jazz-rock music written by a vegan..please respond to this and I'll send you a link to check my music out at Bandcamp....Hope to hear from you and Go Beyond Burger!

[@tsvetig.3793]

I'm interested in hearing it :D

[@midnightcorresponden]

jordonrothstein.bandcamp.com/album/transexual-closeit would lv to know what u think if u have any thoughts.. Happy holidays!

[@lewisisdaman]

I agree Tvesti. She's really cute

[@VoiceTalk52]

I’m a social worker. I see my clients go through this. No car, no blender. Just food stamps and whole lotta doctors appointments. Thanks for making this video.

[@alexandriamckoy4704]

I'm a Care Coordinator that works with the same group of patients. Food stamps and ALOT of appts....ALOT!

[@amydecker6207]

We ate like kings when we had food stamps. Only two of us qualified, and there were six of us. That $347 fed all of us very well each month.

[@overgrownkudzu]

yeah i'm glad she mentioned that what she's doing here is not even realistic, because most poor people aren't going to have all this equipment or time.

[@cr1994yellow]

Lol I’m Mexican, and this is how I eat everyday. I love that you are showing people how to be on a budget and not starve. Thanks :)

[@hellooutthere8956]

Carmen T. Reyes Gonzalez I imagine you season it differently than she did. I am starting to eat lots more beans and rice so I am curious abt your seasonings. Thanks.

[@gabrielmaximus6447]

Do you add anything to the beans to get rid of gas? I love beans and they're cheaper than everything else but I get terrible smelly and loud gas with them even when I take enzymes. I wonder if some herb offsets this.

[@bandersnatchcucumberpatch]

Gabriel Maximus a tiny bit of baking soda will help

[@joey_9698]

sharon anderson I'm Panamanian, and when I make rice I usually season it with a little bit of Goya seasoning, which you can usually find in the Hispanic aisle of a grocery store!

[@nemira8301]

And some peppers or a small jalapeño. Also sofrito is vegan you can add to rice or beans

[@InstantCrazy1]

The worst place is to be just above the poverty line. You don't get government assistance, pb&j is a staple, and you have sleep for dinner to try and forget about the hunger pains.

[@katederepasmusic3584]

InstantCrazy1 :(

[@leal5049]

InstantCrazy1 I feel terrible for the people barely above the line, making $50 too much for food stamps, like $50 is going to feed you for a month.

[@Janelle-ws3cy]

:(

[@starhill6792]

InstantCrazy1 Sounds like the story of my family and my life.

[@vampireleniore]

I am a cancer patient who can't work and have absolutely no income and I was denied disability because "they suspected my condition wouldn't last for more than a year", so not everyone who is sick and poor gets government assistance, but I know what you're saying.

[@beccalordon3680]

This challenge is super eye-opening to me as a "broke" college student I know the struggles of not being able to afford certain things I want for meals and in general, but it's honestly heartbreaking to see how little food and variety of food people in poverty can afford. Really makes me grateful for my situation, and makes me want to figure out how to help those who can't be able to eat enough healthy nutritious and delicious foods.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

Definitely!

[@zsecnarf2143]

I remember eating rice with oil and soy sauce when I was a kid. 😭Feeling blessed today.

[@deannahaynes1668]

Omg how did I find you in the comment section of this video 😂 shes one of my favorites!

[@glendapeterson1180]

A really fun video. If you're interested in how poor people made it in the past, watch "Clara's Depression Era Cooking" videos. Her videos were also put into a cookbook. There are several other books on Depression and WWII cooking, which you might enjoy.

[@phyto.sapien4022]

I love her videos! 😊

[@christinabarnett7091]

Glenda Peterson that is so cool, I’m glad I saw your comment!!

[@mmmmmmmm1942]

Yyyeeessss I love those videos

[@kaylee8130]

Glenda Peterson I actually was just watching Clara’s poor mans meal video xd

[@user-mv5tm8eu5z]

'a really fun video' uhh... what? fun because she only has to do this for a day?

[@bryanacamillebraxton4770]

This was really impressive! Amazing you can make all those delicious dishes from so few ingredients. Definitely gives a preview into life in hunger and poverty. Thanks for doing this experiment.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

thank you for watching!

[@lorrainybrito5185]

you can cook the rice and beans with garlic and salt . Here in brazil we eat rice and beans every day , and we do like that :)

[@Kpower]

Yeah I was wondering why she did not get garlic, onion or basil. They are lifesavers. They make food taste so much better. If I was her I would not buy the beans, but instead, buy some eggs and garlic. It would allow more variety in meals and it tastes better.

[@cahaureliano7]

K-power she is vegan tho, no eggs for her

[@cahaureliano7]

não tem caldo no feijão, ela fez tudo errado tadinha

[@yesica8088]

jalapeños make it even better omg

[@js44cana]

K-power She is vegan and was on a budget 🤦 Eggs cost more than 1.50

[@trishaswartz1011]

I'm not a spokesperson, but Aldis is totally the answer for everything. I eat $40/WK sometimes less n I'm golden.

[@taylorbritt499]

I'm a college student (living on limited funds) I can spend about $30 at Aldi's and that food plus the few times I go to the dining hall last me a couple weeks, sometimes longer. Aldi's is a godsend for sure!

[@CS-by4vg]

Its definitely good, but the one in my town has started jacking up its prices since it remodeled. Its attracting more higher middle class people who can pay the higher prices. Its rediculous. They wouldn't shop there before but now that it looks nice its the cats meow for them.

[@camismith5338]

Lidl is a godsend also. I spend 80 there every 2 weeks roughly and I get alot of organic items. I would never go back to a traditional super market

[@NikkiDocherty74]

@@CS-by4vg I've shopped at Aldi since they built one in my town. I've always budgeted and never bought sodas or many junk foods but i always had snacks and quick lunches for my daughters.

[@taoou2633]

U EAT MONEY :0

[@valeriezamacona4755]

you incredible beautiful beam of sunshine thank you so much for participating in this challenge it's really inspired me to be more conscious of my waste and to be grateful for all i have its crazy and so sad to think that kids actually have to power through school with so little food love you

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

That's awesome! I'm glad it made you think. Love you too

[@valeriezamacona4755]

Caitlin Shoemaker

[@flo.garner]

girl....add garlic and onion it will make all food tastier i can't imagine eating all of those plain food

[@alegl5759]

Florensia Garner wasn't in her budget but yeah I agree

[@limeyfigdet7460]

Maybe not in the budget, but I would also suggest adding oregano and basil to the tomato sauce that she ate with the bean patties. You could use the excuse of already having them on hand, along with at least some powdered garlic and onion. She was really dedicated with this and didn't cut corners though, so respect to her.

[@SamirCCat]

There would be absolutely no point to this video if she would cheat on her budget. Then she might just eat normally. The whole point is to eat only what she can afford.

[@ambi6891]

Hell even the pepper is expensive unless you have a bulk store and can get like .10 worth of a spice it wouldn’t be in the budget

[@maddiesiegmund5623]

Florensia Garner she didn't even use oil when she cooked with her skillet. Props to her

[@lawiez]

if i'm on this diet, i'll probably be able to save $$ on the salt... the tears cascading down my face will be more than enough to season the food, probably lol

[@Sirenamia777]

Lmao

[@bikinggal1]

salt? salt is el cheapo!! You could actually walk into macdonalds and pick up salt packs and ketchup!!

[@thirtythreeeyes8624]

@Naughty Hotdog Ya just go without eating for 2 days and the rest of your food will taste better.

[@MicahElohim]

@@thirtythreeeyes8624 Starvation definitely enhances the flavor of anything edible.

[@JayJay-ge9sm]

You're a hero for that comment

[@irissasa6525]

With developing your cooking skills, your food can be amazing. I was poor, I'm still struggling with money, but my quality of food and the taste and texture of my meals are AHHH-MAE-ZING

[@choicesdriveus4795]

You made me cry when you started talking about children trying to concentrate. 💔

[@nicolelink7369]

this is such a great way to bring attention to such an awful (and I'd like to think preventable) issue! also, very impressed with how creative you were able to get with these meals!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

thank you, and yes I totally agree! it could totally be preventable

[@kristyreal]

Good video, but for satiety, I buy oil instead of bananas. Fruit is nice, but it's actually too little nutrition to justify the price for someone living in poverty. I should know....I miss fruit, but adding healthy (as you can afford) fats to the beans and rice will make you feel full for much longer.....and oil is necessary for the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients. Fruit contains no nutrients that you can't obtain from cheaper sources.

[@nannie4u]

Sometimes we must sacrifice nutrition for calories

[@no_peace]

Bananas are cheap as hell

[@nannie4u]

@@no_peace The point is that paying $1.50 for 5,000 calories is more cost effective than paying 1.50 for 700 calories

[@bodyofhope]

I was looking for this comment. The brain and nervous system needs fat! A teaspoon of oil in everything or an avocado instead of the plantain would have helped her hunger and concentration. This is part of the reason ppl who don't have much $ eat very high fat diets-- because you stay fuller longer and it's a more sustainable source of energy than carbs and veg.

[@thisismylovehandle]

Yep!! We are a family of 5 living on 2k/ month net. Fat is where it's at!! We get free food from a church ministry for all our extras, meat, bread, etc. So we're doing better than this poor girl ate.

[@jaelynaaron9366]

This has become my comfort vid. My inspo video. My food rut video. My everything vid. I hope it never leaves the internet.

[@adrianacorbari146]

really impressed with the variety of meals you were able to achieve which such limited ingredients, really well done, youre so appreciative of everything and positive, truly a role model hats off to you lol

[@ndjjiekkskkejjr]

I appreciate thar she literally made the same meal in like 3 different ways lmao.

[@airari24]

Theresa Akubuilo I think she was trying to show how to work with a week's worth of vegan groceries (So using it all up in different ways), instead of showing a bunch of original cool recipes

[@juli-fz7ep]

ikr she WAS SO CREATIVE

[@woolyvaro7814]

If I'm on a budget, I always buy potatoes. Not sure how expensive they are outside of Germany, but here they cost about 2 dollars for 5 pounds.

[@TheHaSoMa]

Wolle van Ro this. When I was a kid and we had financial Problems we ate potatoes so freaking often because they are cheap and filling

[@lilxoluvr]

10 lbs for 99 cents in arizona

[@hanawana]

Jesse Hitman Where’s “here?”

[@vampireleniore]

Potatoes, rice, and beans are just about the most cheap, satisfying foods in existence, but potatoes are my favorite. So versatile and cheap. Also, nutritionally dense.

[@babybatmouse4177]

2.99 for 10lbs in North Carolina

[@mondugibaby]

Omg please learn how to cook South Indian meals. Most are Vegan or vegetarian and so cheap but incredibly tasty. Tasty. Very tasty.

[@ShelleySkyDoe]

The spices do not come under the poverty line challenge. She would have to go a day without food per spice

[@Sam-gx5hb]

@@ShelleySkyDoe curry powder is $2 at walmart. It lasts forever. Yeah. Its not as good as real Indian cooking, but its also not unrealistic. It wouldn't work for her challenge, but when you live it every week you occasionally will have a little extra(like you wouldnt need to buy oatmeal or peanut butter every week, or sometimes something will be on sale half off, or maybe you found a fiver on the ground, or you got an extra hour at work.)

[@BuddingPlanet]

As an Asian, I agree with DeeGirl. But on the other hand, I can see where Caitlin was coming from. Those under poverty in Asia would have some spice in their cupboard to make things a lot tastier than what I saw in the video. Indian dhall curry and rice with Azuki beans is delicious, super cheap too. It's something that I would see at Sai Babas' centers. They need to cut their cost super low, and yet make things tasty.

[@reshma221180]

Spices also increase the vitamin intake than normal.

[@sezmonsta3229]

salt and pepper will save every broke person

[@aeline1932]

Try buying provence herbs/Herbes de Provence (It's one of the cheapest seasoning you can find in France, and it lasts a long time (100g a year, 5€). It''s maybe more expensive in america). Tastes better, and is so much better for your health.

[@ashleybeltran7182]

@@aeline1932 thanks for the advice .😉

[@ultravioletpisces3666]

You can do a lot with season-all.

[@beautifuldreamz8698]

Trueee

[@magdalenakebede5838]

Hey Caitlyn! I'm so thankful that you've done this! Recently we're really having money proben (2kids+1 single mom) and I've been eating so much bread because it's so cheap and we rarely got more fruits than apples & bananas. Tbh you're video made me feel more human and less a ashamed of my situation ❤️

[@sleepykokiri]

i really appreciate you making this video and how honest you were with how hungry you were. it shows that you CAN be vegan on very little money, but it's not necessarily going to be the same as YT vegans. anyone can be vegan - eating vegan on very low income isn't necessarily as easy as some people make it seem. something else that's important to note is that a lot of people with lower income will not have a blender. i asked for a blender as my big christmas gift and i was very lucky. pretty much every recipe you made used a blender, so it would be even harder to make vegan meals without that luxury! thank you for this video and your honesty!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

I agree with this completely :)

[@kitty1256x]

Can use cheap small food processor instead of blender, it costs around 20 dollars or less.

[@erin2150]

check out a thrift store if you need one anyone! I just moved and got a bunch of second hand kitchen things for cheap :)

[@nancynancysbb]

A good place to shop is Dollar Tree or a Dollar Store, Aldi, etc because everything is a dollar. They also have a freezer section too with frozen fruits and vegetables, sometimes, salmon and chicken. They sell eggs, roasted red peppers, old fashioned oatmeal, pita bread, and more.

[@SmileyGirl22100]

I'm a little wary of Dollar Tree food but the frozen veggies sound like a great idea so I might check it out.

[@CS-by4vg]

Ive eaten the dollar tree frozen veggies and I'll vouch for them being safe. The only thing is they have freezer burn and generally have no flavor/taste like dirt.

[@katharinerobert8378]

I've checked out food at the dollar tree / dollar store, and while some things are cheaper there I typically find $1 pasta at a regular grocery store and it's a bigger package. Most of their foods that do cost $1 cost the same at the regular grocery store (regular meaning normal less expensive grocery, not the fancy more expensive ones..)

[@c.c.1823]

I think this is the best video you've ever made! xx

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

I think it is the one I am most proud of so far :)

[@cristinamurillo4028]

whee you are a lazy mexican so you eat beans and rice on a daily basis (I put avocado on top, it's my favorite meal, tastes like childhood)

[@Obrak-Abrik-g8u]

I think you are the most honest humble and realistic vegan youTubers. Love ur content

[@dagoddess5748]

Thank you for bringing awareness. Alot of us are spoiled and can buy food and waste food like it's nothing. You literally did the challenge and did not stray. A very humbling experience. Peace and Love.

[@Melodyofthesea78]

Hon....my uncle is on govt. assistance and he works. He definitely deserves some food like everyone else.

[@Melodyofthesea78]

I don't think we need fancy food. It's a waste of money. I'd take burgers and French fries over anything fancy.

[@thefinewino]

@zadose child please

[@stronggiftfromgod]

I appreciate your connection to food and education. As a teacher I believe in Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Basic needs such as food, shelter, etc. need to be met before adequate learning takes place. A lot of kids in this situation are in "survival mode"...

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

I do too! I want to talk about this in the final video

[@candyman190]

A little cinnamon with the pancakes would’ve been 👌🏽 😁

[@daniellewelch8913]

Johnny Noon so true! Once when my daughter was little and I made her breakfast every day we accidentally dumped a LOT of cinnamon in the batter...and voila!...Cinnamon Pancakes! Now that is how I make them every time. 😊🐭🦋

[@candyman190]

Danielle Welch haha! Love that! It’s anazing! And also, have you tried “frying it” in coconut oil? If not, then ugh! 😍 you dunno watchur missing! Put a nice heaping tablespoon or 2 of coconut oil and wait till the oil starts to smoke. When it does, pour your batter and you’re welcome. 😏😛

[@victoriafuentes1883]

I added cinnamon and vanilla

[@CheapLazyVegan]

LOVE THIS! I did this last year and it was def a bit of a challenge but eye opening :) I need to do this again!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

ah thank you Rose! I actually watched all of those videos when they first came out and loved them :) You were the first one who brought this challenge to my attention!

[@markpoole6449]

Caitlin Shoemaker and Rose, since you're both here this is perfect! I watched both of you ladies' videos and wanted to mention that you can make more satisfying/filling soup if it's a thicker consistency...more like a stew. Just blend up part of your starch source to work as a thickener. There was a study by some country's army (Russia maybe?) and the soldiers actually stayed fuller for longer with the exact same soup when it was blended into a puree.

[@meganp8766]

This is SO impressive what you could do on such a tight budget and and your commitment. This video really opened my eyes and is very humbling, especially after reading The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. My eyes have really been opened lately to the struggles of people living without enough to eat and this has changed my perspective on food and has made me so much more grateful. Thank you so much for sharing💛💛

[@The1234fanatic]

Megan P that book was sooo good. Rly similar to my mothers upbringing

[@themagnificentsans8317]

This is why buying in the bulk sections are so helpful; you can get lots of pastas and grains and even spices for really cheap because you can buy them at any size you need, even like just a cup of pasta for 20 cents

[@evagibson1798]

Do you rinse your rice? I've learned you can make the cheapest rice taste great when you rinse them off well.

[@moondog7694]

I heard plastic rice was being sold in Jamaica by another country that had a machine that melted plastic bags into pellets the size of rice grains.

[@bloodangelsheart]

Wait, you don't wash your rice? I didn't know people didnt wash it.

[@jean6061]

Since rice used to be one of my few staples, I would only buy Calrose Rice - so good! - and yes, I rinsed it until the water ran clear, then cooked it in my rice steamer.

[@k80_]

Judging by the cloudiness of her soup seems like she didn’t

[@elsitabebe]

As far as the rice tasting like plastic. She may actually be correct. Many lower quality rice has fillers in them made from a plastic like material. This is true, you can Google it and do some investigating yourself, I about fell over when I found this out. How does the government approve plastic for human consumption?? There were other foods also, which I don't remember, but RICE stuck with me since I use it a lot

[@starrstark]

Thanks for making this video. My family is considered to be below the poverty line. Since my parents eat meat and dairy, it's too much money for them to afford 3 separate meals just for me. This helps me get some vegan ideas that they can afford.

[@starrstark]

I will not replicate exactly because we can afford $15-20 a week for my food, but it's better for ideas than $50 a week or $4 each meal.

[@shaelstrata517]

A vegan diet, is cheaper by default, than a traditional diet, because vegans don't buy meat,, dairy or egg products. A vegan diet, with processed faux animal like replicas, can be expensive, but not a Whole Foods Plant based diet, of plant based foods, in their natural state like nuts,, seeds, grain, fruit & vegetables. I know two people eating a traditional diet, and they eat animal based products, for 2 people EVERY meal, milk & cereal nearly every day, deli meat & cheese every lunch, and some dead body part for dinner every night. That works out to 8 gallons of milk a month, x 12 months = 48 gallons of milk a year! Plus a near constant hoard of meat, and cheese. Think about it, to feed 2 people deli meat and cheese every day, for 30 days, is 60 servings a month, PLUS another 60 servings of meat every day, for a month. Then besides that, they buy, yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream, whipped cream, butter, ice cream, etc. That has to to cost a massive amount of money!1

[@yearspaceship6112]

Caitlin. Thank you so much for acknowledging and bringing up the point that not everyone has the opportunity to receive a higher education. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to continue my education after community college (which I was able to attend on a pel grant), due to not being able to pay for it or take out private loans. And I know so many who didn't even have the opportunity to go to community college because they have to work multiple jobs to take Daren of themselves and their families. Thank you for being aware and bringing it to the attention of others. I'm so happy that you're doing this challenge to bring attention to poverty issues. GO CAITLIN!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

Thank YOU for watching! I am sorry that the school system has failed you and you were not able to continue your education...that should be a basic right

[@glimmeringshard]

I love how down to earth and grateful you were during this challenge!

[@sabrinazarogoza8686]

Growing up my dad didn't always have a steady income, since concrete is such seasonal work and my mom has five kids, so it wasn't easy. Beans, Spanish rice and fried potatoes lots of dinners. Egg sandwiches for breakfast. Breakfast burritoes and raman noodles were also something we had lots of. Now my husband and I have a total monthly income of 1400 dollars, so it's better, although we do definitely still have our hard times. I'm so greatful for the prosperous and the difficult times. Most times we only eat dinner. I like to tell people it's because we choose to, but we're also kind of forced into it by our financial situation. So I try to make sure we keep our meals to 3 dollars per person. Sometimes I can afford more, it just depends on how bills and things like that work out, also if there's anything we need for the house like toilet paper or dish soap that can cut into things a bit as well. Honestly, the harder times are my favorite because it's proof that we can survive. We are strong and we can get through this. Not only that, but sometimes you come up with the most interesting recipes that actually taste good.

[@noraa2804]

Cumin powder and hot sauce would have elevated that beans and rice dish, I believe. People have different tastes, true, but if you never tried it, you might be pleasantly surprised. It makes the dish really tasty and hearty.

[@noraa2804]

And cumin powder and hot sauce are pantry items that can last a while, so maybe they can be affordable to many people

[@spewsansucks]

siracha=poor man's ketchup

[@franciscastar]

what? isnt sriracha more expensive than ketchup? And its a lot nicer too

[@chloewenham8454]

Francisca Martins that’s what I though 😂😂

[@diortaylor325]

Nora A exactly!!! That unseasoned ass bland ass “tomatoes for flavor” ass

[@kaylajohnson7621]

I just want to acknowledge your portion about kids in school and how a lack of food effects their performance. As a Special Education teacher, I will say YES. Most of my kids come to school hungry, especially on Monday when they haven't had anything to eat all week. Most people don't realize that many children who are under-performing in schools come from families who live in poverty and literally cannot provide food for their children. Hunger affects academic performance more than any other outside factor in a child's life. Super cool video for those who don't know the effect hunger can have.

[@cascasasa]

Where I live that would be 5 dollars only to buy peanut butter.

[@anjaylah]

I can tell by the brands, she went to Dollar Tree to buy, at least the PB, frozen veggies and oats. EVERYTHING at Dollar Tree is $1.

[@GiantPetRat]

Do you live in Latin America? I know that in a lot of places in Latin America peanuts aren't too hard to find, but PB is practically a myth.

[@harietam3194]

Same, over here it’s close to 6-7$

[@aruytpadyugf]

No, this person is most likely from LA or NY. Where organic peanut butter is literally $5 for 1 oz lol South Americans don't eat peanut butter, it's not part of the traditional diet. It's a very American thing.

[@Chantwizzle]

aruytpadyugf but all the Americans and Europeans who live there do. My brother lives in Cabo, and its basically America in Mexico. There are stores the locals can't afford to shop in. But they cater to tourists and snowbirds.

[@gee777]

I remember finding 2 cans of pasta sauce for 50¢ and crying with happiness

[@user-rm3iy4ye2l]

This definitely makes a person more aware of their privilege! I can't imagine what it's like to live in poverty.. I live a pretty minimalistic lifestyle and I donate clothing to local community organizations, but I want to do more. It's upsetting that billions of dollars and media attention are spent on fighting poverty internationally yet there are underprivileged people in our own neighbourhoods starving and suffering.. 😞

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

Definitely!

[@yukisshadow]

Carbs Are Happiness There is a documentary called 'Living on one Dollar' it is so good. You should check it out, if you haven't already.

[@user-rm3iy4ye2l]

yukisshadow Thank you for the suggestion! I'll check it out :)

[@k1rsi3]

Thought you did a great example of eating below the poverty line and how difficult it is. We def have so much to be thankful for. Also important to note that people living below the poverty line also may have limited/minimal cooking appliances (pots, blenders, fridge, etc) or maybe money to pay electricity bill. I work as a dietitian with pts with (preventable) end stage disease, and it's unfortunate that sometimes they do (or did) only have fast food/corner shop options because $1 gave a LOT more calories to keep them full..

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

This is very true!

[@k1rsi3]

also love your channel (: happy Friday!

[@girlsgames7793]

Girl you gotta soak them beans or you gonna get the bubble guts

[@amythompson7700]

GirlsGames Also, you might want to clean them first!

[@stephanieme4405]

She pressure cooked them so I think that helps with the bubbles

[@soxpeewee]

Ditto with the rice.

[@Milsukix3]

I never really get problems if I don’t soak my beans, maybe it’s the issue of how much you eat them and if you’re used to them?

[@fionas9795]

What's bubble guts? I've never eaten beans before.

[@kiarat3428]

I watched this and now I really appreciate my mom teaching me how to cook because let me tell you spices ARE EVERYTHING. Even adding a bit of garlic or a chile will spice up your life.

[@starrieknight8307]

It’s best to wash the beans, or any grains really before cooking them

[@YT4Me57]

Starrie Knight & The Android Clones Yes, I was wondering if she sorted and rinsed those beans off camera.

[@vitamatjac1506]

Not only wash but soak for at least a day :) and then wash and cook :)

[@daisy8284]

vita matjac you don’t need to soak if you’re using an insta-pot like she did.

[@vitamatjac1506]

Daisy It's not important how you cook them.. you have to activate the shell because when they are dry, a substance that is not good for consumption is formed and you destroy it by soaking... I prepare them in insta pot also but am always soaking them... but thats what I've learned, for legumes and nuts... check it out to be sure, maybe its not necessary :)

[@Natashajb]

"a substance that is not good for consumption is formed" well done, you said nothing in 4 lines. fact. heat is a catalyst and speeds up the process. maybe dont tell other people to check it out, do it yourself before telling other people what to do like you know.

[@janellebryan8604]

You did a great job being creative what you had. And the best part of all was raising awareness on what is the plight of so many in this world..

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

thank you :)

[@StrawberryElli]

Thank you, Caitlin, for spreading awareness, it inspires me a lot to think more about my expenses and where I could watch my budget more in order to save money! It also makes me feel more grateful for the money I have to spend on healthy nourishing foods and that I'm able to pick and chose what I want to buy and eat! That's such a privilege not everyone in this world has. Much love to you🙏

[@akanaistyping]

Thank you for this. I mean, what you’re eating is probably a lot more than what I eat on a “tight” day here in the Philippines. 1.50 is the equivalent of around 160 php here. You can’t eat that much quantities with 160 php. I also love that you’re being very respectful about all this because this is reality for some of us. Anyhow, this was really helpful for someone who’s not as privileged but also thinking of trying out veganism. Thank you!

[@SirisLife]

This is so impressive, and you're such an inspiration!💕👏🏼 I definitely feel motivated to try something similar!

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

I would definitely recommend it - it was eye opening!

[@rhondapetsch6539]

Caitlin, I just wanted to say that I love your channel and can't stop watching your videos. Your demeanor is so sweet and gentle. Yet you are so obviously smart that your approach is just right. This must have been very hard and I can see why people with lower income certainly would make food choices based on value and not nutritional content.

[@CaitlinShoemaker]

thank you so much for this kind message!

[@kiwifruitkl]

When you are poor, you are really pressed into a hard situation, especially when it comes to food. In modern society, rent, utilities, gas, bills, taxes, etc. are first and foremost. Once the expenses are paid, you can consider what food you can buy and eat. For starters, the food must be high-calorie. White rice has a longer shelf life and is much more absorbable than brown rice, so it should form the staple of your diet. Next, you need a complete protein source. It would be really helpful if you allow eggs in your diet, because they are a good source of complete protein. If not, then you are stuck with beans. Ideally, you can switch up the eggs and beans every once in a while, but that plan assumes you're not vegan. Eggs are also a good source of energy-dense fats. While they do contain cholesterol, they're better than nothing.

[@JubilantMints]

kiwifruitkl The eggs are healthy cholestrol. Beans and rice together also form a complete protein and carb base.

[@billieache8154]

Wait She's Vegan and VEgans can't have eggs because it's from Animals

[@jazzyrush1]

This is so informative and helpful! A small tip - let plaintains get super super brown (like an over ripe banana) to get the most flavor out of them

[@sleepingterror7]

Watching her eat green plantains just like that was weird lol You can fry them when their ripe and then they're sweet. Or you could squish them when their green and make Tostones. (kinda like a chip kinda not) its great budget food because they make great and inexpensive snacks. Just salt and pepper them and your good to go. Instead of just a can of tomatoes you can get a "pre seasoned" can that has no added salt but does have either Mexican or Italian seasoning in it. Cuts cost but adds flavor. And that soup with rice you made could have just been reduced more (so down to 1 1/2 to 1 cup left, since its only for one) added beans for thickening, wait more, season more (salt and pepper, because of the challenge your doing) then veg, wait a little more then add the rice. The "crepe cakes" (lol) are a good idea and if you made parts of it ahead of time (like the oat flour) then I think it would be do-able. They were gummy though because they were over mixed, it happens more often when you mix batters in blenders. Sometimes it just over beats and makes textures weird for pancakes and crepes. You could have also added a little bit of raw oats into the batter at the end so they would have more texture. I wanted to ask , why didn't you brown the crepe-cakes more and the same for the bean rice paste burger? Interesting video thanks for making it. ^_^ I'd really like it if you did another version of this, but maybe shopped at other places. That's the real secret of "budget" friendly meals, the places you get the food. edit: Also forgot you could have totally made rice congee or rice porridge. I feel like thats the difference. People who've been/are poor and force creative, and people who haven't been poor trying to "see what it would be like" minus the forced creativity. Because you get to stop at the end of the week. Just to be clear, I send no hate, just after thinking about it, I think thats why the comments and even this video leave me a little...unbalanced. lol It really was a good video. ^_^

[@jazminsantana2396]

Hamburger Helper 100% agree

[@Hayden_Cat]

sleepingterror are plantains bananas?

[@mazet4125]

@@Hayden_Cat yes, but dont eat them raw like you would with the yellow bananas.

[@ajoseprecious3586]

lmao I was about to say the same. poor thing

[@alyssadoesntlie3702]

sleepingterror yeah a lot of it looks like the white version of foods I had at home rice and beans with chicken or pork chops. She cut them weird.

[@poppycon7204]

As soon as you said that you are thankful for the opportunity to simply get an education in the first place I hit subscribe. I really appreciate this video. My family didn't have a lot money growing up and they certainly couldn't afford to eat fancy kinds of foods, so this really such a great way to spread the word and inform more people. Thank you so much for this video.

[@emilly7555]

I recommend adding potatoes to that soup. It will thicken up the base and have more calories :)

[@WanderlustingDunfords]

I agree she couldve bought alot more potatoes for a $1 instead of the veggie bag

[@ambi6891]

future_mrs. games wasn’t in the budget she’d had to have cut something else out

[@Michelle-pn9xt]

I think I would have bought peanut butter and jelly, bread, potatoes, ramen noodles two small cans of vegetables, brown rice and maybe one or two other things.

[@gabrielmaximus6447]

Michelle if you've got a freezer frozen food generally cheaper and healthier. 2 cans of vegetables(around 400g drained weight between them both) in the UK is between 60p-£1 Vs a 500g-1kg bag is £1 and frozen once picked. 1kg of potatoes £1 Running a freezer obviously costs money but depends how poor you are.

[@DreandMoni]

Ohhhh yuppp

[@s.laverre]

As a very poor high school student I appreciate this video for many reasons. You bring awareness to the struggles of living below the poverty line, especially with not being able to concentrate. I’m also mentally cataloguing these meals to have something healthier than pasta 😅