Student blogs

Moving to a new country means adapting to a lot of new things—grocery shopping and cooking being two of the biggest adjustments! As a student in Stockholm, learning to go around a budget-friendly grocery shopping in Stockholm and cook can take some getting used to.

While eating out or ordering food can be tempting (and it’s certainly enjoyable), it’s not the most sustainable option in this pricey city. In this blog, I’ll share my experience with grocery shopping and cooking as a student, along with tips to make it easier, more affordable, and fun!

Where to shop in Stockholm

Stockholm has several grocery store chains, each catering to different budgets and offering a variety of products. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular options:-

ICA: One of the largest grocery chains in Sweden, ICA has a wide range of products and can be found almost everywhere in the city. From budget-friendly essentials to premium items, ICA has you covered.

Lidl: My personal favorite! If you’re on a student budget, Lidl is a fantastic choice. It offers some of the most affordable prices, along with weekly discounts that are hard to beat. It’s a student go-to for stocking up on essentials.

Coop: While Coop tends to be a bit more expensive than Lidl, it’s still a solid option. Especially if you sign up for their membership to get access to deals. It’s conveniently located near my dorm, so it’s my go-to for last-minute or emergency shopping.

Hemköp: Hemköp is a mid-range store where you’ll find just about everything you need. Be sure to check out their discount section for deals on groceries close to their sell-by date.

Willys: Known as one of the most budget-friendly chains, Willys is perfect for buying in bulk and stocking up on pantry basics.

Others: If you’re looking for specialty items, I get my Ethiopian ingredients (like Injera) from Hallonbergen Centrum, my way of dealing with homesickness. For Korean, Chinese, or Thai dishes, I often shop around Solna Centrum, where you’ll find various Asian grocery stores.

Affordable shopping tips

Buy in bulk: Look out for bulk deals, especially for items like rice, pasta, and canned goods. Willys and Lidl are great places for bulk shopping.

Look for discounts: Many stores offer discounts on items close to their sell-by dates. These are perfect for students looking to save a few kronor.

Student discounts: Always check if stores offer student discounts or loyalty programs. Signing up for store memberships can also give you access to exclusive deals. I have both Lidl and Coop membership discounts.

Shop seasonally: Fruits and vegetables can be cheaper when they’re in season, so plan your meals around what’s available.

Budget-friendly cooking tips

As a student, cooking at home is not only more affordable but also healthier. Here are some tips to make your meals both budget-friendly and delicious:

Plan your meals: Take a few minutes each week to plan out your meals. This will help you avoid impulse purchases and ensure you’re buying only what you need.

Batch cooking: Make larger portions and save leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. Meals like pasta, stews, and curries are perfect for this.

Use frozen vegetables: Frozen veggies are often cheaper and last longer, making them great for student budgets. I usually keep my veggies fresh in the fridge rather than buying frozen ones though.

Stock up on staples: Keep essentials like rice, pasta, lentils, and canned beans in your pantry. These are affordable and can be used in many different dishes.

One-pot meals: Cut down on cooking time and dishes by preparing one-pot meals like stir-fries, soups, or pasta dishes. And i keep my pasta, rice or macaroni in another pot.

Easy recipes for the busy week

Here are a few quick and easy recipes perfect for a busy schedule

Easy Breakfast: I like to prepare overnight oats for a few days in advance, or go with a quick bowl of cornflakes topped with fruits and milk—both simple and filling!

Pasta with Tomato and Basil Sauce: A quick pasta dish using canned tomatoes, garlic, and fresh basil. It’s ready in just 15 minutes and always a student favorite.

Vegetable Stir-Fry: A great way to use up whatever veggies you have. Toss them in a pan with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, and serve over rice (white/brown) for a fast and healthy meal.

Swedish Meatballs: Try making traditional Swedish meatballs using minced meat, breadcrumbs, and cream. Pair them with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam for a true Swedish experience.

Take advantage of your oven: Toss your chopped potato, carrot, paprika, cucumber, cherry tomato with a little bit of seasoning and olive oil into the oven while you fry your seasoned chicken thigh. Delicious!

Veggies, Veggies, Veggies: Eating plenty of vegetables is key for staying healthy. You can pair them with tuna, chicken, or just enjoy a bowl of simple salad. Don’t forget to keep healthy snacks, like fruits or nuts, handy during class or study sessions.

Conclusion

Grocery shopping and cooking in Stockholm as a student might seem challenging at first, but once you find your go-to stores and favorite meals, it becomes a fun and rewarding part of your daily routine. From learning where to find the best deals to experimenting with Swedish ingredients, these tips will help you eat well on a student budget. Don’t be afraid to try new things and enjoy the process of cooking in your new home. Lycka till!