Sometimes, your local supermarket or big-box store has just what you need, but there’s a whole world of ingredients waiting to be discovered in smaller, family-owned ethnic grocery stores. These shops often carry items that are both familiar and completely new, opening up endless possibilities for your kitchen. With the convenience of online resources for recipes and preparation tips, there’s never been a better time to explore.
One of the best parts of visiting these stores is the sensory experience. I especially enjoy exploring Asian and Indian markets, where the scents alone are enough to draw you in.
It’s exciting to wander the aisles filled with vibrant packaging, knowing that the flavors awaiting discovery are authentic and rich. Even at local farmers’ markets, you’ll often find stands run by these small grocers, offering a chance to get familiar with the ingredients they carry – and ask the vendors about how they prepare them.
Stocking your pantry with a few ethnic staples can quickly turn your home-cooked meals into something truly special. Ingredients like soy sauce, coconut milk, curry paste, basmati rice, and a mix of spices—turmeric, cumin, garam masala—are key to unlocking a world of entrees and sides; but these are the familiar ones – explore and discover many you’ve never heard of.
The beauty of many of these recipes is that they yield large quantities, making it easy to enjoy leftovers or freeze a portion for later meals. Cooking becomes not only about exploring new flavors but also about saving time and effort in the days ahead.
I encourage you to step out of your routine and explore something new. Don’t be afraid to experiment with ingredients you’ve never used before. There are plenty of resources online to help you along the way, with recipes that demystify the preparation of these exciting new dishes. Plus, trying something unfamiliar is a wonderful way to expand your palate and keep your meals interesting.
If you’re headed out for groceries this weekend, consider making a detour to a nearby ethnic market or a farmers’ market stand. Let your curiosity lead the way. Not only will you find ingredients that make your cooking more exciting, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of flavors that different cultures bring to the table. Who knows, you might just discover a new favorite dish!
Beaucoup Links Du Jour:
The Bittman Project – Mark Bittman, former NYTimes journalist and author of one of my go-to ethnic cookbooks, The Best Recipes in the World
The Best Asian Grocery Sites for Stocking Up on Snacks, Dumplings, and More – Vice
How to Stock an Indian Pantry: Spices, Dals, and More Essential Ingredients – Serious Eats
Two Minutes Du Jour 