What to Buy at an Asian Market Recipe
A comprehensive shopping list to help you build your Asian pantry. Print and take this guide with you when you visit an Asian market!
How to Make the Best What to Buy at an Asian Market
Walking into an Asian market for the first time can feel overwhelming with its unfamiliar ingredients, foreign labels, and seemingly endless aisles. But once you know what to look for, these markets become treasure troves of fresh produce, unique seasonings, and pantry essentials that can elevate your home cooking to restaurant-quality levels.
This comprehensive shopping guide breaks down the must-have ingredients by category, making it easy to navigate any Asian grocery store. From fresh aromatics like galangal and lemongrass to essential sauces like fish sauce and oyster sauce, you’ll find everything you need to stock a well-rounded Asian pantry. The frozen section is particularly valuable—pre-chopped lemongrass, lime leaves, and galangal root save prep time and stay fresh for months.
Whether you’re just starting to explore Asian cuisine or looking to expand your existing repertoire, use this list as your roadmap. Print it out, bring it with you, and don’t be afraid to experiment with new ingredients. The staff at Asian markets are often incredibly helpful and can point you toward the best brands and explain how unfamiliar items are used in traditional cooking.
What to Buy at an Asian Market
A comprehensive shopping list to help you build your Asian pantry. Print and take this guide with you when you visit an Asian market!
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
Refrigerated Items
Frozen Items
Oils, Sauces & Condiments
Spices & Seasonings
Pantry Staples
Instructions
How to Use This Guide
- Print this list and take it with you to the Asian market.
- Start in the fresh produce section and work your way through the refrigerated and frozen aisles.
- Highlight your favorites as you discover them for easy reference on future trips.
- Don't be afraid to ask staff for recommendations on unfamiliar ingredients.
- Stock up on pantry staples that have a long shelf life.
Notes
- Many frozen items like lemongrass and galangal are incredibly convenient to have on hand.
- White miso is milder and sweeter than red miso, making it great for beginners.
- Gochujang, sambal oelek, and sriracha each offer different heat profiles and flavors.
- Invest in a good toasted sesame oil—it makes a world of difference in Asian dishes.
