In 2026, the price of everything seems to be going up except our salaries. At Springpoint Magazine, we believe that “fine dining” is a mindset, not just a bank balance. This week, our target was simple but ambitious: walk into the local market with exactly ₦5,000 and come home with a pot of stew that tastes like a million naira.
How do we achieve this without compromising on taste? We look to the “hidden gems” of the market—garden eggs. They are packed with fiber, nutrients, and often far more affordable than a basket of tomatoes. By making the smart swap from expensive fresh beef to the deep, smoky flavor of dry fish and soft, diced ponmo, you can capture that authentic “local” soul we all crave while keeping your budget intact.
The ₦5,000 Market Breakdown:
- Garden Eggs (1 bowl/heap): ₦1,200
- Smoked Fish (2 medium pieces): ₦1,500
- Ponmo (clean, diced): ₦800
- Palm Oil (small bottle): ₦700
- Onions, Fresh Pepper & Scent Leaves: ₦800
- TOTAL: ₦5,000
It is important to note that this ₦5,000 focuses specifically on your fresh market haul. To bring this meal to life, you’ll be leaning on your “pantry foundations” at home—those basic staples like seasoning cubes, salt, and crayfish that every kitchen thrives on.
Additionally, while this pot of stew is the star of the show, it does need a companion. Whether you choose to pair it with boiled yam, white rice, or a few fingers of ripe plantain, remember to factor your choice of side into your final dinner plans. The verdict? Even in a tough economy, ₦5,000 is still enough to buy the heart of a great meal if you know exactly what to look for.
Think you can beat our 5k budget? [Click here for the full Recipe] and tell us your secret market hacks in the comments!
