I’ve always loved food. Eating is my favorite activity, and cooking is probably a close second. 
Growing up in a Cuban and Polish family, there was always someone cooking dinner and we always sat down together as a family to enjoy it. Both of these unique food traditions have inspired my favorite meals and opened my eyes to a world of tastes.
I took these traditions with me to the University of South Florida where I majored in chemical engineering. And being only 2 hours from home, I made sure to never miss Grandpa’s Polish Christmas Pirogies or my mom’s famous Cuban Natilla.
Shortly after college, I went into the real world and worked for a Cheese company as a Formulations Leader. 
Here I learned how companies like Kraft, Tyson, and Walmart make food for the masses. This gave me an appreciation for the food most of us eat when we are exhausted from work or trying to cram dinner in between school and sports practice. Most of this food is great…and can make some pretty tasty meals if you know how to cook with it.
After working for a few years I decided that I wanted to go back to school, so my husband and I quit our jobs and moved across the country so that I could go to grad school. Not having a paycheck anymore was HARD! I had to figure out how to make the same great food but without the same amount of money. I had to be more frugal and pay attention to what I was spending money on. I started That Frugal Foodie to share all of the healthy, easy, delicious things that I love to cook, and to show you that you can still eat well frugally.
While working towards my Masters in Food Science, I learned the science behind what makes food delicious, and why certain ingredients just go so well together. 
Throughout the recipes on this site, you will see some of those “can’t beat” ingredient pairings and learn how to use them in your own cooking. I also got the great opportunity to cook with people from around the world. I will share with you some of the best recipes from Nepal, China, Thailand, Cuba, Poland, and, of course, the vast culinary traditions of the United States just to name a few. I love trying new things and enjoy sharing those things with friends and family. The best part, you too can try recipes from around the world for pennies on the dollar.
Most importantly, cooking (and eating!) should be fun! On this site you will find some of my favorite recipes from around the world. 
Most are quick and easy and will give you the opportunity to try something new without breaking your budget. You don’t have to follow the recipes exactly. Use them to inspire you and create your own delicious meal.
Happy Eating!
Paulette