(Realistic Filipino Ulam Ideas That Actually Work)
There comes a point when you look at your grocery receipt and think:
“Parang ang konti ng nabili ko… bakit ang mahal?” 😅
This is usually when we enter tipid mode — tightening the budget, cutting unnecessary gastos, and being more intentional with what we cook at home. But here’s the truth: saving money doesn’t mean eating boring food or repeating the same ulam every single day.
Over the years, I’ve learned that when you’re trying to save, it’s not about cooking “cheap” food — it’s about cooking smart.
So today, I’m sharing what to cook when trying to save money that I personally rely on when:
- we’re watching our spending,
- grocery prices feel extra mataas,
- and ordering out is no longer an option.
These are not pang-fiesta dishes. These are pang-araw-araw na ulam — filling, masarap, and budget-conscious.
Budget-Smart Filipino Ulam Ideas
1️⃣ Ginisang Sardinas with Egg or Misua
Sardines are one of the most affordable pantry staples, but when cooked right, they don’t feel “emergency food” at all.
Add:
- garlic, onions
- eggs for extra protein
- or misua to stretch the dish
💡 Why it saves money:
One can feeds more people with simple add-ons.
2️⃣ Tokwa’t Gulay (Tofu + Pechay or Cabbage)
Tofu is affordable, filling, and absorbs flavor really well. Pair it with leafy greens and a simple soy-garlic sauce.
💡 Mom tip:
Fry the tofu first for texture, then toss with veggies — mas satisfying than plain gulay.
3️⃣ Chicken Adobo (Portioned Properly)
Adobo is classic for a reason. It’s forgiving, reheats well, and tastes even better the next day.
💡 How to save:
- Use chicken cut-ups instead of pure breast
- Cook once, eat twice
4️⃣ Ginisang Monggo with Malunggay
This is one of the most cost-efficient ulam ever.
Add:
- malunggay or spinach
- a bit of tinapa or pork bits (konti lang!)
💡 Why it works:
High protein, filling, and very affordable.
5️⃣ Tuna Sisig (Canned but Elevated)
Canned tuna doesn’t have to be sad. With onions, calamansi, pepper, and a little mayo, it becomes a family favorite.
💡 Budget win:
Cheaper than fresh meat but still satisfying.
6️⃣ Eggplant Omelette (Tortang Talong)
Eggs + talong = one of the best value meals ever.
💡 Stretch it:
Serve with rice and a small side dish — busog na.
7️⃣ Pork Giniling with Potatoes and Carrots
A small amount of ground pork can go a long way when mixed with vegetables.
💡 Tip:
Use more veggies than meat — no one notices, promise.
8️⃣ Sinigang na Gulay (With Optional Fish or Pork)
You don’t need a lot of meat for sinigang to taste good.
💡 Savings trick:
Let the vegetables shine, meat is just support.
How I Plan When I’m Saving Money
When we’re on a tighter budget, I do these things:
- Plan ulam for the week
- Buy ingredients that work for multiple dishes
- Avoid impulse buys (lalo na pag gutom sa grocery 😅)
This way, I avoid food waste and surprise gastos.
Mommy Peach Reality Check 💛
Saving money doesn’t mean sacrificing joy at the table.
It just means being more intentional.
A warm ulam, rice on the table, and everyone eating together — that’s already a win.
If this list helped you plan even one week of meals, then this post did its job ✨
