My husband is the kitchen boss so he is the one doing chores that is related to food. On weekends when I would do the marketing, I would get a prepared list from the kitchen boss simply because I have no idea of what he would be cooking for us. Now there is this probability that he would be in the province for a week related to a project, I have to learn how to plan and budget the food. Last week, I started my apprenticeship. What to cook? That is the first problem because I can only cook a few dishes and not good enough at that. But there is a way to survive by focusing on my kitchen aptitude which is frying and roasting. Good. At least I have made a list for one week with frying and roasting fish and meat. For the budgeting, I find it exciting because I have to estimate the amount of meat, vegetables and other ingredients needed for the coming week. In short, it is a big challenge for me because planning and budgeting the food for next week is a tall order.
You sound like you have a good attitude going into it. Remember it the budget is tight to use rice and noodles to help stretch the recipe's. And talk to other women. I have found most women are glad to share their tricks for staying within their food budget.
I've found that something that stretches longer than most things is eggs... granted they cost a lot more than they used to (at least here in the U.S. @Corie Henson , not sure about there) but a dozen eggs can make a number of meals. I'm perfectly content with a fried egg sandwich for a meal, but then there's french toast, omelets, etc. that all can come from the same dozen eggs... unless you have an issue with not eating "breakfast food" for dinner.... I enjoy it, but I know not everyone does.
I will eat an omelette or an egg sandwich too for lunch or dinner many times. I think egg prices have dropped a little in the states but I don't know how much they are where Corie lives. I also make egg salad for my low carb spinach wrap and mix avocado with the egg. Okay, I'm getting off track here now because I'm sure Corie won't be buying my special low carb tortilla that I can only get in Monterey in a small market.