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Plant Based And Broke

Cheap and Easy Plant-Based Recipes

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About Plant Based And Broke

Welcome to Plant Based And Broke, a plant-based blog that’s all about eating well on a budget, using ingredients that are easy to find, wholesome, and full of flavor. Whether you’re just getting started on a plant-based journey or trying to feed your family without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place.

Here, you'll find simple, affordable, and satisfying meals that don’t require fancy tools, expensive ingredients, or complicated steps.

From pantry-friendly staples to seasonal favorites, this blog is your go-to resource for real food that’s budget-conscious, approachable, and made with love.

Aly Michell from Plant Based And Broke.

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A Little Bit About Me

Hi, I’m Aly!

I’m a mom of two wild toddlers, a proud Puerto Rican from Miami, and the creator behind Plant Based And Broke, a blog dedicated to approachable, affordable, and downright delicious plant-based meals.

What started as a creative outlet during a period of food insecurity has grown into one of the top plant-based food blogs for everyday eaters who want simple, nourishing meals without breaking the bank. Growing up in Miami and now living in California has deeply influenced my cooking style. I bring the bold, vibrant flavors of my Puerto Rican roots together with the fresh, seasonal produce of the West Coast to create budget-friendly meals that celebrate culture, comfort, and creativity.

Whether you're new to plant-based eating or just trying to make more meals at home, I’m here to help you cook with confidence, using pantry staples, straightforward techniques, and a whole lot of sazón and sofrito.

Food Journey

My journey with food has always been personal. I learned how to cook when I was homesick in college, craving my abuela’s flavors but relying on pantry staples and food pantries. Today, I’m still budget-conscious, but now I’m cooking for a family with food allergies and dietary restrictions, including my youngest, who is allergic to a variety of foods (her allergies has definitely helped me get more creative!)

Food Influences

My food is influenced by the flavors I grew up with: Puerto Rican and Caribbean dishes, along with Indian cuisine, thanks to my husband. The goal? Simple, satisfying meals with accessible ingredients that make plant-based eating doable and delicious.

Three images of Aly Michell. In Puerto Rico, in front of a tree, and outdoors hiking.

What You’ll Find Here on Plant Based And Broke

On Plant Based And Broke, you’ll find:

  • Budget-friendly plant-based recipes made with everyday ingredients
  • Allergen-conscious dishes that are vegan and family-friendly
  • Culturally inspired meals with influence from Puerto Rican, Caribbean, Indian, and American cuisine
  • Helpful guides on how to eat a plant-based diet on a budget

Whether you’re a long-time vegan, curious about eating more plants, or just looking to stretch your grocery dollars, there’s something here for you.

My Top Recipes

  • Puerto Rican arroz con habichuelas in a small bowl
    Puerto Rican Rice with Beans (Arroz Con Habichuelas)
  • Cream of rice topped with walnuts, cinnamon, maple syrup, and shredded carrots
    Easy Cream of Rice Recipe with Cinnamon Brown Sugar
  • Strips of veggie bacon against parchment paper
    Crispy Mushroom Bacon
  • Tofu Black Bean Burgers (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

Fun Facts About Aly

Twin But Totally Different

I have a twin sister who looks just like me, but we couldn’t be more different.

Oatmeal is My Obsession

I’m obsessed with oats in every form, sweet, savory, baked, or stewed.

Books, Tea, and Nature

To unwind, I love reading or disconnecting outside with a hot cup of tea.

My Work

I’ve had the honor of being featured in:

More About Aly & Plant Based And Broke

Where do you get inspiration for your recipes?

From my heritage, my husband’s culture, my kids’ dietary needs, and what's in my pantry.

Are you vegan?

I eat a mostly plant-based diet, and all the recipes on this blog are vegan-friendly.

Is this blog only for vegans?

Nope! Whether you’re plant-curious, part-time vegan, or just trying to save money on groceries, you're welcome here.

Where can I find affordable groceries for a plant-based diet?

Check out my Cheap Vegan Grocery List and local discount stores, farmer’s markets, or bulk sections.

Aly's Favorite Recipes

  • Stack of whole wheat pancakes topped with strawberries and blueberries.
    4-Ingredient Whole Wheat Pancakes for Kids
  • Air fryer red potatoes with herbs and sideof sauce
    Tender Air Fryer Red Potatoes
  • Vegan palak paneer in a large white bowl with a side of sliced onions and white rice.
    Vegan Palak “Paneer” With Tofu
  • Tofu scramble in a bowl with toast.
    Easiest Breakfast Tofu Scramble Recipe
  • Cooked tofu guisado or tofu stew made with tofu, carrots, potatoes, and olives. Topped with chopped cilantro.
    Puerto Rican Tofu Guisado (Tofu Stew)
  • Vegan roasted tomato basil soup topped with chopped basil and a side of toasted bread.
    Vegan Roasted Tomato Basil Soup
  • Red lentil soup (Masoor dal) garnished with cilantro.
    Punjabi Style Red Lentil Soup (Masoor Dal Soup)
  • Vegan chocolate cake in a mug with a spoon.
    Vegan Chocolate Mug Cake: Moist & Easy 

Let’s Stay Connected

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Hi, My name is Aly Michell! I create plant-based recipes that are easy, accessible, using everyday cookware.

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Vegan Fall Recipes 🍂🍁

  • Homemade date-sweetened applesauce in a mason jar served with an apple slice and a spoon.
    Homemade Sugar-Free Applesauce 
  • Bowl of chickpea sweet potato curry over white rice.
    One-Pot Chickpeas and Sweet Potato Curry
  • Air fryer sweet potatoes cubed and served with a yogurt-based dip.
    Herbed Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
  • Apple slice with homemade date paste
    3-Ingredient Cinnamon Date Paste
  • Sweetened, cooked red split lentils with a drizzle of coconut milk and crushed walnuts in a bowl.
    Breakfast Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
  • Bowl of vegan macaroni and cheese.
    Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese
  • Zucchini stuffing casserole with carrots, corn, and stale bread in a casserole dish.
    Zucchini Casserole with Stuffing
  • Five fluffy chia seed pumpkin muffins on parchment paper
    Vegan Pumpkin Muffins with Chia Seeds

Popular Posts

  • Noor dates in a bowl
    How To Soften Dates (3 Easy Ways)
  • Tofu Chicken chunks on a white platter
    How To Make Tofu Taste Like Chicken
  • Cream of rice topped with walnuts, cinnamon, maple syrup, and shredded carrots
    Easy Cream of Rice Recipe with Cinnamon Brown Sugar
  • Puerto Rican arroz con habichuelas in a small bowl
    Puerto Rican Rice with Beans (Arroz Con Habichuelas)
  • Sweetened, cooked red split lentils with a drizzle of coconut milk and crushed walnuts in a bowl.
    Breakfast Lentils With Cinnamon Brown Sugar
  • Tofu butter chicken or murgh makhani topped with chop cilantro. With a side of rice.
    31 Plant-Based Dinner Recipes
  • Strips of veggie bacon against parchment paper
    Crispy Mushroom Bacon
  • Puerto Rican yellow rice in dutch oven.
    Puerto Rican Yellow Rice (Arroz Con Gandules)

Just Published

Slice of vegan lentil pastelon topped with chopped cilantro

Vegan Pastelón (Puerto Rican Plantain "Lasagna")

Pastelón was always one of those dishes that made our kitchen feel alive. I remember the smell of sweet plantains caramelizing, the laughter in the background, and the excitement of a big family meal. …

Bowl of tofu noodle soup with carrots.

24 Veganuary Recipes: Easy, Healthy, & Totally Delicious!

It’s Veganuary time and we’re starting 2026 strong with the best plant-based recipes that are delicious, easy, and affordable. Although we are not affiliated with the organization running Veganuary, …

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Recent Posts

Bowl of tofu noodle soup with carrots.
Vegan pumpkin pancakes with a pour of maple syrup, topped with vegan butter and chopped walnuts.
Closeup of cooked mushrooms in a sauce.
Bowl of creamy quinoa porridge topped with berries, sliced almonds, and a splash of coconut milk.
A scoop of saucy black beans from a pressure cooker.

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