Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian Season 1 Episode 6 Supper for a Song

In the sixth episode of Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian's first season titled "Supper for a Song," the chef explores the economics of meal planning. D'Arabian, who has a degree in finance, knows firsthand how to stretch a dollar, and in this episode, she shows viewers how to make delicious meals with ingredients that are affordable and accessible.

The show starts with d'Arabian heading to a discount grocery store to see what bargains she can find. She explains that by shopping at stores like this, she can stretch her budget and feed her family for less. At the store, she picks up a few items, such as a whole chicken, canned tomatoes, beans, and pasta, which she plans on using for the meals she will make later in the episode.

D'Arabian then heads back to her kitchen, where she shows viewers how to create three easy, tasty dinners that each cost less than $10. First up is a chicken and rice skillet, made with the whole chicken she bought earlier. She shows how to break down the chicken into pieces, which not only saves money but also gives her the bones she needs to make homemade broth. The chicken is then seared with onions, garlic, and some spices before being cooked with rice and the homemade broth. D'Arabian notes that this dish makes enough for leftovers and can be easily reheated for lunch the next day.

Next, d'Arabian makes an Italian-style soup with kale, beans, and pasta. She uses canned beans and tomatoes, which are affordable pantry staples, and fresh kale, which is low in price and high in nutrients. She also shows how to make homemade croutons with a piece of day-old bread she had on hand. The soup is flavorful, hearty, and makes for a satisfying meal on a chilly evening.

Lastly, d'Arabian creates a quick and healthy dish of shrimp stir-fry with vegetables and rice. She uses frozen shrimp, which are a budget-friendly seafood option, and stir-fries them with fresh veggies like bell peppers, carrots, and onions. She also shows viewers a trick to cooking perfect rice every time, using the absorption method. The result is a colorful and tasty dish that is ready in no time.

Throughout the episode, d'Arabian emphasizes the importance of meal planning and using what you have on hand. She also provides useful tips, such as buying whole chickens instead of just breasts or thighs, as they are more affordable and versatile. Additionally, she recommends stocking up on pantry staples like canned beans and tomatoes, pasta, and rice, as they can be used in a variety of dishes.

In summary, "Supper for a Song" is an excellent episode of Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian that showcases how to create delicious meals on a budget. D'Arabian's practical advice and easy-to-follow recipes make the show a must-watch for anyone looking to save money without sacrificing flavor.