There is no mention above of those donativo albergues which cook for pilgrims. I believe that there are still a few on the Frances, although I cannot say whether they have been doing so during the pandemic, or whether they will be doing so this year. If so, you will pay what you can for your evening meal and breakfast. I have always made a point of paying twenty euros for my bed (or mat) and meals. The donativos must have enough money to buy food to cook and to keep the building functioning. Another inexpensive option which has been mentioned is buying food in a grocery store. This does not always need to involve cooking in the albergue. Sometimes you can put together an inexpensive meal of a packaged salad and a main course which can be served as is or heated in a microwave (available at many albergues). If you must eat very cheaply, the grocery stores will be your best resource, depending on whether there is a kitchen which you can use in the albergue. Communal cooking can be great for some, but as a vegetarian I often prepare my own meals and try not to monopolise cooking facilities. As a hospitalera, I would wish that pilgrims clean the kitchen after themselves.