When it comes to trendy foods, many of us are lured by the health claims or the Instagram-worthy aesthetics, but the price tag can sometimes be hard to swallow. The good news is, many of these popular foods can be made at home, often for a fraction of the cost. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have complete control over what goes into your food, cutting out preservatives, extra sugars, and unnecessary additives.
Here are 7 trendy foods you can easily whip up yourself — and enjoy without breaking the bank.
1. Kombucha
Kombucha, the fermented tea made with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), is a health trend that’s reached billions in sales globally. Known for its potential digestive benefits, it’s a favorite of health-conscious individuals everywhere. However, buying bottled kombucha regularly can quickly add up.
Making kombucha at home is not only cheaper, but it’s also a fun DIY project. While growing your SCOBY can take a couple of weeks, once you have it, you can brew your own batch in just a few days. Add your own flavors with fruits, herbs, or spices, and enjoy a fizzy, refreshing drink for a fraction of the cost.
2. Pea Protein Powder
Pea protein has become popular among vegans, athletes, and those seeking plant-based protein. If you’re not careful, purchasing this protein powder can be quite pricey. But did you know you can easily make your own at home?
Simply process dried split peas in a blender or food processor, then sift the mixture and grind the remnants again. That’s it! In just about 15 minutes, you’ll have fresh, homemade pea protein powder to add to smoothies, baking, or savory dishes.
3. Oat Milk
Oat milk has quickly become one of the most sought-after plant-based milks on the market, especially among dairy-free drinkers. With its creamy texture, oat milk is great for coffee, cereal, smoothies, or just as a refreshing drink on its own. However, oat milk sold in stores can get quite expensive.
Luckily, making oat milk at home is easy and affordable. Simply blend oats with water, strain the mixture, and voilà — you have homemade oat milk. Add a bit of sweetness with maple syrup or vanilla extract, and enjoy your very own creamy milk for a fraction of the store-bought cost.
4. Overnight Oats
Overnight oats are a quick and convenient breakfast that has gained serious traction in the health food world. These no-cook oats are soaked in liquid (usually milk or plant milk) and left in the fridge overnight to soften and absorb the flavors. But purchasing pre-packaged overnight oats can be quite costly.
Skip the premade versions and make your own by combining rolled oats and your choice of liquid (non-dairy milk or yogurt works too). Let it sit in the fridge overnight, and in the morning, add your favorite mix-ins like fruit, nuts, seeds, or nut butter. It’s simple, delicious, and much more affordable.
5. Microgreens
Microgreens, the tiny, nutrient-packed plants that can be sprinkled on salads or sandwiches, are often sold at premium prices. But you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy these health-boosting greens.
Growing your own microgreens is easy and inexpensive. You just need a few trays, some soil, and microgreen seeds (which you can often find at dollar stores). Within a couple of weeks, you’ll have fresh, home-grown greens ready for harvest — and it costs a fraction of store prices.
6. Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is known for its rich, creamy texture and higher protein content compared to regular yogurt. While store-bought varieties can be costly, making your own Greek yogurt is a breeze and a great way to save money.
Start with a bit of store-bought yogurt as a starter culture, then heat milk, let it cool, add the culture, and let it sit in a warm place for several hours. For Greek yogurt, simply strain the yogurt through a cloth-lined colander to remove excess whey and thicken it up. The result is fresh, homemade Greek yogurt for a fraction of the cost.
7. Rustic Bread
Rustic bread is a popular, artisanal-style bread that’s often sold at gourmet bakeries. While it’s delicious, buying it regularly can get expensive. Making rustic bread at home, however, is incredibly simple and costs much less.
Mix together flour, water, yeast, and salt, then let the dough rest overnight. The next day, shape it and bake in a preheated oven. The result is a crusty, flavorful loaf that rivals anything you’d find at a bakery — and it won’t break the bank.
These trendy foods don’t have to come with a hefty price tag. By making them at home, you not only save money but also enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own healthy, delicious treats. Plus, with homemade versions, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring you avoid unnecessary additives, preservatives, and high prices. So, why not give these trendy foods a try and reap the benefits of both health and savings?