Home made takeaways that save you money

Picnic spread with homemade snacks, fruit and drinks on a blanket outdoors.

Skip expensive takeaways this summer and enjoy fun outdoor dining with budget‑friendly, homemade options you can pack up and eat out. It’s a great way to change things up and have a treat without the expense.

Here are a few homemade versions of some of Australia’s favourite takeaway treats that are designed to travel well to the back yard, local park or the beach while keeping your bank balance happy. 

Fab fish dogs

Replace greasy battered fish with strips of white fish coated in paprika and flour, pan-fried until golden. Serve inside crusty wholegrain rolls with a quick slaw and lemon.

Salt and chilli chicken

Pan‑fry thinly sliced chicken breast coated in a spiced flour and egg mix. Toss with garlic, peppers, chillies and a drizzle of honey for a sticky, street‑food‑style finish. Serve with a simple rice salad.

Turkish-style beef kebabs

Mix beef mince with kebab spices, shape into mini patties and pan‑fry. Serve in wholemeal pitta with shredded lettuce or cabbage and a dollop of cucumber yoghurt.

Smokey mackerel tacos

Use affordable smoked mackerel fillets and warm mini tortillas. Top with pan‑sizzled chilli, avocado, shredded lettuce and a squeeze of lemon for a smoky, flavour‑packed snack.

Stretch ingredients further

Upcycling your leftovers: Turn last night's BBQ chicken or ribs into tonight’s wraps, or use stale bread to make your own panko-style breadcrumbs for fish and chicken coatings (perfect for your on your fish dogs, or salt and chilli chicken). 

Buy what’s in season

Make the most of the seasonal stuff: Go for seasonal fruits and vegetables, which are fresher and significantly cheaper in the summer months. Make loads of salads and have fun making things like fruit kebabs. 

Pack snacks, like popcorn or nuts you’ve spiced your way and roasted at home.  

Foolproof packing tips

Prevent soggy sandwiches

Keep the bread fresh by wrapping it in a slightly damp tea towel. For salads, use the layering method: put wet ingredients like tomatoes at the bottom of a container and leafy greens on top. Mix when you get there. 

One-handed eating

Focus on handheld foods like sliders, pinwheel wraps, or quiche bites to avoid the need for cutlery in sandy environments.

Creative cooling

Freeze fruit cups or water bottles the night before; then they can act as ice packs in your cooler and provide a refreshing drink as they melt.

Small swaps like these can add up over summer, helping you enjoy treats while keeping more money in your pocket.

Therese McGrath - Pepper Money Chief Financial Officer

Contributor | Therese McGrath, Chief Financial Officer

Therese brings over 25 years of international experience in finance, strategy, and operations. She joined Pepper Money in January 2018 as Chief Financial Officer. In this role, she provides the leadership and financial and operational management necessary to ensure Pepper Money achieves its strategic goals and objectives. Read more.

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The information provided is general in nature and is not intended to imply any recommendation about any food safety practices and/or dietary choices. These will depend on your individual circumstances which have not been taken into account. Consult a qualified professional for advice specific to your circumstances.

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