My Complete Haul and Beginner’s Guide
Going to an Asian supermarket is always a little gastronomic adventure. There are colors, smells, different packaging, and a delightful feeling of discovery — as if we were traveling without leaving our city. This time, I went to stock up the pantry and brought a varied selection of Japanese, Korean, and Chinese products that I love to use in everyday life.
If you are thinking of visiting an Asian supermarket and don’t know where to start, this guide shows exactly what I bought, what it is for, and why it is worth trying. The full reviews will come in upcoming posts — today is just to whet your appetite.
I leave you, first of all, the address of the Asian supermarket where I go. It is in Lisbon at R. Francisco Salgado Zenha 13, 2685-332 Prior Velho, Portugal, and it is called: Supermercado Chen, they also have one in Martim Moniz (harder to park).
🥟 1. Dumplings (Gyoza) — Chicken, Vegetables, and Meat
Dumplings are a classic and one of the safest purchases for beginners. Besides that, they are a must-buy here at home; we always bring 2 packages with different fillings.
- They cook in minutes
- They work as an appetizer, snack, or quick meal
- They can be steamed, sautéed, or fried (or in the air fryer)
They are perfect for anyone who wants to try Asian food without complications.
Explore later: How to prepare these gyoza
2. Korean Corn Dogs
The famous Korean corn dogs — crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and with that fun touch that is popular with kids and adults alike. It was a debut, we had never brought them before, but this time we gathered the courage.
Ideal for:
- Weekend snacks
- Different snacks
- “Street food” experiences at home
Explore later: review of Korean corn dogs
🔥 3. Tteokbokki (Korean Rice Cakes)
One of the most popular dishes in Korea. Tteok are chewy, addictive, and absorb any sauce. They are a favorite of my husband.
Great for:
- Spicy dishes
- Quick stir-fries
- Korean soups
Explore later: how to cook tteokbokki
🍄 4. Asian Mushrooms (Enoki and Shimeji)
Asian mushrooms are light, tasty, and very versatile. They are also must-have items. Enoki are my husband’s and little one’s favorites, shimeji are my favorites.
- Enoki: perfect for soups, ramen, and stir-fries
- Shimeji: great with butter + soy, or to accompany noodles
Explore later: recipes with Asian mushrooms
🦑 5. Frozen Squid
An excellent option for quick and flavorful dishes. Since we tried it, it has also never failed in our shopping.
It is used in:
- Stir-fries
- Fried rice
- Asian noodles
- Spicy dishes
Explore later: how to prepare Asian squid
🍜 6. Asian Instant Noodles
Asian noodles are very different from traditional “instant” ones — more flavor, more texture, and more variety. Another favorite, they are great for quick meals, and many times we don’t use the seasonings that come with them.
I brought:
- Soy noodles
- Ramen noodles
- Rice noodles
Explore later: types of Asian noodles and how to use them
🍙 7. Onigiri (Stuffed Rice Triangles)
One of my favorite purchases — perfect for quick snacks. This is one of the items I always bring, really always. I am highly addicted, they are in the frozen section, and for me, it is one of the best things there.
Flavors I brought:
- Teriyaki
- Spicy
- Kimchi
Explore later: onigiri review
🍛 8. Pastes and Kitchen Bases (Miso, Curry, Sauces)
Essential for adding flavor to any Asian dish. Also on the list of our favorites and always in the shopping cart.
I brought:
- Miso paste
- Japanese curry
- Soy sauce
- Rice vinegar
- Japanese mayonnaise
Explore later: guide to Asian sauces
🧃 9. Drinks and Snacks
Because no one leaves an Asian supermarket without bringing different snacks. This is where we constantly get lost. The packaging is always super appealing, really super.
Among the purchases:
- Powdered bubble tea (we had never brought it before, this one is to make, normally we bring it already made and they are great)
- Gummies (so good, it was a novelty too)
- Stuffed cookies (an addiction, we brought my husband’s favorites)
- Crispy snacks (review coming soon)
Explore later: Asian snacks worth trying
🧭 Conclusion: What to Buy in an Asian Supermarket
If you are just starting, these products are perfect for exploring new flavors without fear. They are versatile, easy to use, and turn any meal into a fun and different moment.
In the next posts, I will share detailed reviews of what I liked the most — and also of what I wouldn’t buy again. This way, you get a realistic and honest guide for your own shopping.
Do you want the next post to be about:
- the best snacks
- the most surprising products
- how to use each ingredient in simple recipes
Tell me which one you prefer me to write next.
