{
  "id": 3880405,
  "title": "R50 or less | Simple meals that won't break your budget",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/28/r50-or-less-simple-meals-that-wont-break-your-budget",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-28T03:50:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "IOL",
    "slug": "iol",
    "url": "https://iol.co.za/lifestyle/food-drink/2026-08-28-r50-or-less--simple-meals-that-wont-break-your-budget/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The rising cost of living in South Africa has made budget-friendly meals increasingly important for many households. For under R50, it is still possible to create a simple, filling meal. The key lies in selecting affordable ingredients, buying loose produce, and making the most of inexpensive items to feed more than one person.\n\nPap is a staple food that can be had for under R50. It can be served with eggs for a complete breakfast or supper. Adding an onion or tomato to the mix can enhance the flavor without breaking the bank. Other budget options include dried beans and rice. These ingredients, when cooked together with onion, tomato and seasoning, can provide a hearty meal that can be enjoyed for several days. Potatoes are another affordable option that can be easily transformed into a satisfying meal. Diced potatoes, fried with onion and seasoning, and topped with beaten eggs make for a quick and filling supper or breakfast.\n\nWhen time is short, a sandwich can serve as a convenient lunch. Bread, tomatoes and onions, seasoned to taste, can create a tasty meal. Adding a boiled or fried egg can provide an extra protein boost. Instant noodles are also a cheap option, but adding a few basic ingredients such as a fried egg, chopped cabbage or onion can turn a quick snack into a more substantial meal.",
  "summary": "Six simple meal ideas using affordable staples such as pap, eggs, beans, rice and cabbage. Check local prices and use pantry items you already have to help make R50 stretch further.",
  "key_points": [
    "Pap, eggs, onion, and tomato create under R50 meal",
    "Dried beans and rice provide hearty, budget-friendly option",
    "Sandwiches with tomato, onion, and egg are convenient lunches"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Sticking to simple, locally-sourced ingredients and classic comfort foods allows South Africans to maintain a nutritious diet without straining their finances amid rising living costs.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}