As a competitor, I am always searching out new, clean eats while trying to save a few dollars. Wouldn’t we all love to buy only organic from high-end health food stores? Of course, but for many people, that is not always an option. So, I will share with you how I maximize my $$$ when it comes to food shopping.
One of my favorite money-saving tricks is to shop at Asian supermarkets. If you can get past the strong odors of the fish, dried shrimp, and exotic mushrooms, you might find a few deals yourself along with some new and interesting ingredients.
Here are a few tips for shopping at an Asian supermarket:
1. Take advantage of the inexpensive produce.
2. Try a different version of what you typically buy, such as black rice instead of brown rice.
3. Check out the large selection of super fresh fish and seafood.
4. Pick up a new type of seasoning or sauce. One of my favorites is chili-infused sesame oil.
Navigating an Asian supermarket can be a bit tricky when it comes to avoiding artificial ingredients and preservatives, so be a vigilant label reader and stick to ingredient lists that don’t contain:
- Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
- Excessive salt
- Words you can’t pronounce
Here is a list of my weekly “must-haves” from the Asian supermarket:
- Produce (I have been trying a new fruit/veggie at least once per month. This month, I tried fuzzy squash. Yum!)
- Chicken (@ $2.89/lb.)
- Tilapia (@ $3.99/lb.)
- Eggs(@ $1.69/dozen)
- Cold-pressed macadamia nut oil
- Black quinoa
- Chopped walnuts
Happy shopping!
