Savvy shoppers know that the best deals on many grocery staples aren’t found at big-name American supermarkets. Local international markets—whether they specialize in Asian, Hispanic, Middle Eastern, or European foods—are often a treasure trove of high-quality ingredients at a fraction of the price. These stores import directly or buy in larger quantities, passing the savings on to their customers. By venturing into an ethnic grocery store, you can save a significant amount of money on these nine common items.
1. Spices and Dried Herbs
This is the number one reason to shop at an international market. In a typical grocery store, you pay several dollars for a tiny glass jar of a common spice. At an Indian or Middle Eastern market, you can buy a large bag of the exact same spice, like cumin, turmeric, or cinnamon, for the same price or even less. The value difference is astounding.
2. Rice
If your family eats a lot of rice, you should never buy it at a regular supermarket. Asian and Hispanic markets sell huge, 20- or 50-pound bags of jasmine, basmati, or long-grain rice at a price per pound that is dramatically lower than the small boxes sold in mainstream stores. Buying rice in bulk from these markets is one of the easiest ways to save on a pantry staple.
3. Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and parsley are often sold in small, expensive plastic clamshells at a standard grocery store. At a Hispanic or Southeast Asian market, you can typically find enormous, fresh bunches of these same herbs for less than a dollar. The quantity is much larger and the price is much lower, offering incredible value.
4. Dried Chiles
A small jar of crushed red pepper flakes can be pricey. In contrast, a Hispanic market will offer a huge variety of whole dried chiles—from anchos to guajillos—in large, inexpensive bags. These chiles provide a much more complex and authentic flavor for your cooking, and you get far more for your money.
5. Tofu and Other Soy Products
Tofu, soy milk, and other soy products are staples in many Asian cuisines, and the prices at Asian markets reflect that. You can find a wider variety of tofu, from silken to extra-firm, at a much lower cost than the limited and often overpriced selection at a regular grocery store. This makes it a great place to stock up on plant-based proteins.
6. Limes
Limes are a fundamental ingredient in many Hispanic and Southeast Asian dishes. Because they are purchased in such high volume, Hispanic markets, in particular, often sell limes at a fraction of the price of mainstream supermarkets. You can frequently buy five or ten limes for the price of just one or two at a big-chain store.
7. Cooking Oils and Sauces
Specialty ingredients like sesame oil, fish sauce, rice vinegar, and coconut milk are often placed in the small, expensive “international” aisle at a regular grocery store. At an Asian market, these are everyday staples sold in larger bottles for a much lower price. The selection is also far superior, offering different brands and varieties to choose from.
8. Canned Beans and Legumes
While canned beans are cheap everywhere, international markets often have them for even less. You can also find a much greater variety, including different types of chickpeas, lentils, and beans that are central to various global cuisines. This allows you to expand your culinary horizons while still saving money.
9. Noodles
Whether you are looking for Italian pasta, ramen, or rice vermicelli, an international market is a great place to buy noodles. Asian markets, in particular, offer a massive selection of noodle types in large, affordable packages. You can find high-quality ramen and udon noodles for much less than you would pay for specialty brands at a regular supermarket.
A World of Savings
Shopping at international markets does more than just save you money; it opens up a new world of culinary possibilities. It allows you to explore authentic ingredients and flavors while taking advantage of prices that major supermarket chains simply cannot match. For any home cook looking to improve their meals and their budget, a trip to an ethnic grocery store is well worth it.
What are your favorite items to buy at an international market? Do you have a favorite local ethnic grocery store? Share your shopping tips!
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