Latinx Heritage Month: 4 Recipes from 4 Countries under $40

Latinx Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Latin America. And what better way to celebrate than with food? This collection of four recipes from four different countries will take you on a culinary tour of Latin America, and the best part is, you can make all four dishes for under $40.

1. Mexico: Chicken Tinga Tostadas

This smoky and flavorful shredded chicken dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal and is incredibly budget-friendly.

• Budget-Friendly Tip: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts. They’re cheaper and have more flavor.

• Recipe: [Link to a budget-friendly chicken tinga recipe]

2. Colombia: Ajiaco (Chicken and Potato Soup)

This hearty and comforting soup is a classic of Colombian cuisine. It’s made with three different kinds of potatoes, chicken, and corn, and is garnished with capers and avocado.

• Budget-Friendly Tip: Use whatever potatoes are on sale at your local Jewel-Osco. You don’t need to use three different kinds to make a delicious ajiaco.

• Recipe: [Link to a budget-friendly ajiaco recipe]

3. Peru: Lomo Saltado (Beef Stir-fry)

This delicious and easy-to-make stir-fry is a perfect example of the Chinese influence in Peruvian cuisine. It’s made with beef, onions, tomatoes, and french fries, and is served with rice.

• Budget-Friendly Tip: Use a cheaper cut of beef like sirloin or flank steak. You can also use frozen french fries to save time and money.

• Recipe: [Link to a budget-friendly lomo saltado recipe]

4. Cuba: Ropa Vieja (Shredded Beef)

This classic Cuban dish of shredded beef in a flavorful tomato-based sauce is a true comfort food. It’s perfect for a Sunday dinner with the family.

• Budget-Friendly Tip: Use a cheaper cut of beef like chuck roast or brisket. The slow cooking process will make it tender and delicious.

• Recipe: [Link to a budget-friendly ropa vieja recipe]

The Grocery List

Here’s a sample grocery list for all four recipes. You should be able to find everything you need at your local Jewel-Osco for under $40.

• Produce:
  • 2 onions
  • 1 head of garlic
  • 2 bell peppers
  • 1 bag of potatoes
  • 1 bag of carrots
  • 1 bag of celery
  • 1 bunch of cilantro
  • 1 lime
  • 1 avocado
• Protein:
  • 2 lbs chicken thighs
  • 1 lb sirloin steak
  • 2 lbs chuck roast
• Pantry:
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
  • 1 can of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
  • 1 bag of tostadas
  • 1 bag of frozen french fries
  • Long-grain white rice
  • Spices: cumin, oregano, salt, pepper

This Latinx Heritage Month, take a culinary journey through Latin America without leaving your kitchen. These four recipes are a delicious and affordable way to celebrate the diverse flavors of this vibrant culture.