Trying to Cut Grocery Bills Without Feeling Like I’m Starving

I've been really trying to tighten up my grocery budget lately, but I keep hitting this wall where it feels like the cheaper stuff just isn’t filling enough or tastes bland. I’m all about meal prepping and buying in bulk, but sometimes I wonder if I’m sacrificing too much on quality. My go-to staples are rice, beans, and frozen veggies, but I want to mix things up without blowing the budget.

Has anyone found any hidden gems for affordable yet tasty ingredients? Or maybe some clever tricks to make meals feel more satisfying without adding extra cost? I’m thinking about trying some ethnic markets nearby since they often have good deals, but not sure where to start.

What’s your favorite budget-friendly meal that doesn’t leave you feeling like you just ate cardboard? Any tips for keeping grocery shopping fun and thrifty?