Just around the corner from my apartment is a local Asian market called ‘Asia Markt,’ which offers a broad assortment of products. Walking through it honestly feels like strolling through an indoor Asian street market.
I hadn’t been there in a while. I decided to fill up my basket and stock up, so I am able to cook more Asian recipes the upcoming weeks. Here are some pictures of the products I picked so you know what they look like and how I use them in my recipes.
Soy Sauce – A friend recommended this specific brand, and honestly it’s the best one I have tried. I use it as a dipping sauce for sushi or gyozas and to add flavour to stir-fries.
Oyster Sauce – It’s made from oyster extract, water, salt and sugar. It doesn’t taste fishy but adds an amazing umami depth to dishes. Perfect for Pad Thai, gyozas or Bao buns.
Sesame Oil – I like my sesame oil to actually smell like sesame. It’s not suitable for high-heat cooking but works great in marinades (like for fake chicken) or my spicy cucumber salad.
Fish Sauce (Squid Brand) – Despite the name, it’s made from anchovies. It has a strong fishy smell but is essential in Thai cuisine. I only use a few drops of it in Pad Thai, soups or curries. It gives that authentic Thai flavour to any dish.
Rice Vinegar (Mizkan) – After trying many, this is my go-to brand. Great for sushi rice, rice vermicelli or salads.
Udon Noodles – My weekday hero. Perfect for a quick stir-fry. I combine them with whatever vegetables I find in the fridge and season with chilis, oyster sauce and soy sauce.
Silken Tofu – It’s like butter, but tofu. It’s fragile but amazing when marinated and steamed. I also like to blend it with vegetables to make a creamy, protein rich sauce.
Rice Noodles – I use these to make Pad Thai or a comforting bowl of Pho Soup.
Rice Paper – For making fresh summer rolls.
Sesame Seeds – Didn’t buy them this time as I still have some at home, but this brand is great quality and budget friendly. I use them to garnish any dish (ask my friends).
Chuan Nan Crispy Chili Oil – I usually go for Lao Gan Ma, but this one caught my eye and I’m giving it a try. Review coming soon 😁
Matcha Powder – Took me a while to find one that doesn’t taste like liquid sushi. This one is the best one I tried so far. It also makes a great gift when visiting friends for brunch or dinner.
Wonton & Gyoza Wrappers – Straight into the freezer so I can make dumplings whenever I feel like it.
Last but not least: some fresh vegetables. These are either high quality or hard to find elsewhere.
Until next time!
👱🏻♀️ Annely
