Sticky Chilli Pork and Noodles

I’m not sure quite what’s happened but all of a sudden I find myself spending over £50 a week on food shopping. I know, it’s not a shocking amount and it’s certainly less than I know other people spend but it’s twice as much as I used to spend. I didn’t really notice it creeping up over time and I haven’t really changed what I eat (less meat if anything) but it irritates me nonetheless. There’s only so many beans and lentils one person can eat in a week so thrifty meals are essential to give plenty of variation. My sticky chilli pork is quick, tasty and feeds four people for less than £6.

You will need:

• Oil for cooking £0.02
• 2 pork chops £2.00
• Salt and pepper £0.02
• 3 tbsp sweet chilli sauce £0.25

• 4 noodle nests £1.00
• 2-3 spring onions, sliced £0.10
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds £0.07
• 1 small pepper, sliced £0.60

For the dressing:

• 2 tsp soy sauce £0.07
• Juice 1/2 lime £0.15
• 1 garlic clove, crushed £0.02
• 1 small piece ginger, peeled and grated £0.05

Total cost: £4.35

Cut any fat off the pork chops and slice into strips. Season with salt and pepper.

Heat a frying pan or wok and add a little oil. Add the pork strips and fry until golden.

While the pork is cooking cook the noodles according to packet instructions.

Mix the ingredients for the dressing together.

When the pork is cooked through, add the sweet chilli sauce and continue to cook until the pork is coated and glossy. The sauce will thicken a bit.

Drain the noodles and stir the dressing through to stop them sticking.

Serve the noodles with the pepper, spring onion and sesame seeds and top with the sticky chilli pork.

I think this is a pretty well balanced meal; veg, carbs, protein and a little bit of naughty sweet chilli sauce on the side. For something to enjoy in the week when I want something quick and simple this is the kind of thing I cook. It is also delicious with chicken and I’m yet to try it with tofu. I’ve got a few other budget meals to see here and I’m trying to grow these recipes more and more. If you’ve got anything you’d like to see thrifty, let me know!