The Affordable Delights of Street Food: Saving Money on Ramen, Poutine, and Moo Ping

When it comes to dining on a budget, there are few foods as versatile and satisfying as ramen. Despite their humble beginnings as a luxury item, ramen have become a staple in households worldwide. In my hometown, a box of 3-minute ramen costs only 88 cents, down from the 1.25 they used to be on sale for. This convenience and affordability have made them a favorite among many.

3-Minute Ramen: A Staple on Every Budget

Ramen is a versatile meal that can be paired with a variety of vegetables and meats, both fresh and leftover. For those looking to adventurous in the kitchen, there are officially recognized recipes. However, I prefer to keep things simple, much like a typical meal found at a ramen shop. Here’s a recipe from Sanyo Foods if you want to explore further.

Sample Ramen Recipe

Umm… all of it. Spam Rice Ramen Chicken thighs

While I enjoy ramen regardless of my financial situation, there are items that I used to indulge in which I no longer do. The Barenaked Ladies famously sang, “If I had a million dollars, we wouldnt have to eat Kraft Dinner, but we would eat Kraft Dinner.”

Poutine: A Canadian Classic

Poutine might not be my go-to when I’m on a tight budget, but it is a beloved Canadian classic. This dish, made with French fries, gravy, and cheese curds, is an acquired taste, often considered a comfort food. It costs around CAD 6-7, plus tax, depending on the location. Here’s a homemade recipe if you’re feeling adventurous.

Homemade Poutine Recipe

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut 2 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes into thin wedges. Simmer the potato wedges in a large pot of salted water for about 7-10 minutes. Drain and toss in 1/4 cup olive oil. Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until crispy. In a large pan, mix 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of butter, then add 2 cups of flour. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Gradually add 4 cups of chicken broth, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until thickened. Trip a package of shredded cheese and mix into the gravy until well combined. Cover the baked potato wedges with the cheese gravy and transfer to the oven. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Layer this with the crispy fries and cheese to create a delightful and comforting meal.

Moo Ping: A Thai Street Food Staple

Another affordable street food is Moo Ping, or charcoal grilled pork on a stick with sticky rice. It’s a favorite among people of all walks of life in Thailand. You can get a set of 2 for only 25 Thai baht (approximately 70 cents). It’s so popular that you can find it on the sidewalks among street food vendors, or enjoy it during happy hours in the Old English Pub in Sukhumvit areas.

Moo Ping Recipe

Grill 2 pieces of pork on a stick until thoroughly cooked. Heat 2 baht’s worth of sticky rice on an electric stove or in a banana leaf. Wrap the grilled pork with the warm sticky rice and enjoy.

Even if you have a billion baht in the bank, eating Moo Ping still makes your day. It’s a symbol of tradition and affordability that survives in the heart of Bangkok’s bustling streets.

Conclusion

The affordability and simplicity of ramen, poutine, and moo ping make them staples in the diets of many. Whether enjoying a bowl of ramen for 88 cents, indulging in a homemade poutine, or sampling moo ping on a stick, these affordable delights bring a sense of joy and comfort to people all over the world. So, the next time you’re budgeting or just looking for a delicious meal, consider these budget-friendly choices.

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