Jamie Oliver, ever the champion of affordable cuisine, returns with another helping of budget-friendly recipes in Jamie’s £1 Wonders & Money-Saving Meals. This week, the focus is on clever repurposing and DIY takeaways, proving that delicious food doesn’t have to break the bank.
Taking inspiration from Italian grandmothers – always a reliable source of culinary wisdom – Oliver whips up a one-pound spaghetti frittata. A fun and resourceful way to use leftover pasta, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Next on the menu are air-fryer pork pies. Using inexpensive mince and a homemade flaky pastry, Oliver demonstrates how to achieve that classic savory treat without the hefty price tag.
For those seeking a vegetarian option, he offers a butternut squash dal, complete with an optional (and equally thrifty) homemade cheese. And finally, because everyone craves a takeaway now and then, Oliver crafts a DIY chicken shish kebab. Utilizing a time-saving spice blend, he proves that a homemade version can be far superior (and significantly cheaper) than ordering in.
While Oliver’s enthusiasm for piccalilli in his pork pies might raise an eyebrow or two, his focus on maximizing flavor while minimizing cost remains admirable. The butternut squash dal, perfect for batch cooking and freezing, further underscores his commitment to practicality. And for those with a sweet tooth, thrifty mint choc chip whoopie pies provide a delightful end to the budget-friendly feast.
Jamie’s £1 Wonders & Money-Saving Meals airs Monday, January 13, 2025, at 8:00 PM on Channel 4.