i’m pescatarian (bc tuna is cheap and i don’t want to be an inconvenience when im out with friends or fam) but i eat mostly vegetarian at home. here’s some things that helped me be organized and mostly plant based on a budget:
1. always buy a random protein or two everytime you shop. black beans, tofu, chickpeas (makes a mean imitation tuna salad) etc… same goes for a base such as lentils, rice etc. even if you don’t have a recipe in mind you’ll be thankful for it later. canned tomato is also great to have on hand.
2. invest in some nutritional yeast!
3. i take a week or so to sporadically write a paper list out with at least three or four meals in mind along with a loose budget (that’s what works best for me as i get paid biweekly)
4. if your local grocery has an app, use it! i have very bad anxiety so i love knowing exactly what aisle something is in. sometimes i compare between different store apps to see who will keep me close to my budget. i enter my paper list into the app so i’m sure that i have everything. and read those circulars/check for coupons.
5. get yourself a couple “cheat meals” something boxed, frozen, microwavable etc for your lazy days. also get a fun snack or two <3
groceries are def not easy so i feel your struggle! hope these tips help a bit :)