Irene Eats: Conscious Eats
Trying out the Budgie Meal from Conscious Eats!
Before the Budgie Eats initiative was launched this year, finding budget-friendly and nutritious meals on campus was a hassle. While food retailers are now offering more options for students, there was one place that was doing it since the very beginning.
I first heard of Conscious Eats last year through my friend, a med student who would often go to them for lunch. Even before Budgie Eats, they provided filling vegan meals for $7.50, and even had an offer stating that if you brought your own, reusable container, you would get free veggie nuggets. I remember thinking at the time that in this economy, this place was a gem. And I wasn't wrong.
For my review, I asked for their $9.90 meal, a combo meal including curry, rice, salad, two nuggets, and semolina pudding. However, their $7.50 meal is still in place, offering a hearty portion of curry, rice, and salad. I was delighted to see that they had kept both, equally delicious option there to meet the needs of students.
The rice was seasoned perfectly (it's not called "nice rice" for no reason), and the curry coating it created a smooth texture. The curry itself was delectable, and packed with vegetables that kept me full throughout the day. Chunks of carrot and potato, cauliflower florets, and green beans. I'm letting it be known now that before this I was a self-proclaimed green bean hater... but after that curry, my tastes have begun to shift. The curry also had a mild spice which definitely elevated it, even for someone with a low spice tolerance like me.
The salad on the side, consisting of lettuce, and shredded carrot created a nice contrast to the spicy curry, giving the chance to refresh the palate before attacking the main course. The two veggie nuggets on top were crispy on the outside while being soft and savoury on the inside, and were dare I say my favourite part of the meal, despite me not knowing what was actually in them.
The semolina pudding finished the meal of with a bang! The apricot flavour shined through with a balance of sweet and a hint of sour, and the choice of semolina being used instead of regular flour meant that the pudding was packed with protein, fiber, and B vitamins, keeping me satiated for longer.
While I've never been the biggest fan of vegan food, it's safe to say that this won't be the last time I visit Conscious Eats.
The Budgie Eats initiative provides students and staff with access to a range of affordable lunch options on campus. Participating retailers serve these meals throughout the day, each priced at under $10.
