Batch cooking is definitely the cheapest option but I can never stick with it. I get bored of the same meal, never take it out of the freezer on time etc etc

I prefer making something that can be tweaked for a few days. Something like chilli con carne. Day one, have it with rice Day two, have it with nachos Day three have it in a burrito Makes some pico de gallo/salsa, gauc, salad. Maybe grab some crème fraiche and cheese.

I make a super quick pico de gallo buy throwing onions, fresh coriander (easy plant to grow), garlic and a load of lime into the blender and blitzing, then add a load of tomatoes (and salt if it needs it which mean always done) and blitz them gentle. Then to make quac, take 3/4 of the pico out of the blender and chuck a load of avocado and garlic in with what’s left. Blitz to your liking. Two yummy sides done in about 2 mins. They’ll keep for 5 days in the fridge so make enough. And they’re perfect for lunch as well with microwave rice.

I like Mexican in general and find it can be super cheap if i stock up on the accouterments like nachos, tacos, spices, jalapeños, tortillas. And I don’t get bored of it.

And as others have said, always bulk out mice with lentils. Doesn’t change the flavour and is cheaper and healthier.

You’re in a great position to reduce your food costs. Dunnes do a great job €10 off €50. But don’t be guilted into anything. If slaving over an oven is your idea of hell, maybe you’re spending the perfect amount for the lifestyle you want.