What is the cheapest Filipino ulam to cook?

Ginisang monggo (mung bean stew) is one of the most affordable Filipino dishes. A pot that feeds a family of four costs around PHP 80-120. Add pork chicharon or shrimp for extra flavor.

How can I save money on Filipino meals?

Buy ingredients at the palengke (wet market) instead of the supermarket, plan your meals weekly, and use pantry tracking apps like Ma, Ano Ulam? to avoid buying what you already have.

What Filipino dishes taste better as leftovers?

Adobo, menudo, afritada, and caldereta all taste better the next day as the flavors develop overnight. These are great for batch cooking.

recipesJune 18, 20262 min read

5 Budget-Friendly Ulam Ideas for Filipino Families

Discover affordable and delicious Filipino dishes that won't break the bank. Perfect for families looking to save while enjoying home-cooked meals.

By MAU Team

Meal planning on a budget doesn't mean sacrificing flavor. Here are 5 budget-friendly ulam ideas that Filipino families love.

Affordable Filipino Dishes for Every Family

1. Chicken Adobo

The classic Filipino dish that's both affordable and versatile. With just soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and chicken, you can create a meal that the whole family will enjoy. Serve with steamed rice for a complete ulam.

2. Sinigang na Baboy

This sour soup is perfect for rainy days. Use pork ribs or belly, tamarind mix, and seasonal vegetables like kangkong, radish, and eggplant. One pot feeds the whole family.

3. Pinakbet

A vegetable-packed dish from the Ilocos region. Squash, eggplant, okra, and bitter melon cooked with shrimp paste create a nutritious and filling meal that's easy on the wallet.

4. Ginisang Monggo

Mung bean stew is a Friday tradition in many Filipino households. Add pork chicharon or shrimp for extra flavor. It's protein-rich, filling, and incredibly affordable.

5. Tinolang Manok

Chicken soup with ginger, green papaya, and chili leaves. This comforting dish is perfect for cold days and uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

Budget Tips

Buy ingredients in season for better prices
Use the Smart Pick feature to discover new budget-friendly recipes
Plan your meals weekly to avoid impulse purchases
Check your pantry first with the Pantry Tracking feature

About MAU Team

The MAU Team is a group of Filipino food lovers and tech builders who created the Ma, Ano Ulam? app to help families plan meals smarter. We test every recipe we share and write from real kitchen experience.