On Thu, 2 Apr 2009 13:01:36 +0100, "john aston"
> wrote:
>would anyone know of a good combination of vegetables and anything else that
>would work well in a low cost combination? also for non-vegetarians I
>thought I could add some mince beef at the end, is that a good idea?

One item that most people discard are broccoli stems. I take the
crown apart for cooking and then slice the stems on the bias. Blanch
and then chill in ice water bath. I freeze them for later use. They
really add a nice crunch and have to be a more moderately priced
ingredient. We also enjoy carrots and celery in our stir frys.