Because my mother is Japanese, her meals often incorporated tastes from many different Asian culinary traditions.
Now that I live independently, I try to be bold with my cooking as well.
But here’s the catch: specialty ingredients can add up fast.
So I thought back to how my mom managed it. I realized she never purchased Asian items at our local supermarket. Instead, she made a monthly trip to the Asian market in the city nearby.
[Cue the lightbulb moment!]
Could shopping at the Asian market help me cut costs on specialty ingredients — and even on produce?
I decided to find out for myself…
Is the Asian Market the Most Affordable Grocery Option?
To put my idea to the test, I chose a simple standby meal: stir-fry.
I wrote a shopping list and went out to compare prices.
Here’s what I discovered:
Um, WHAT?
How have I not been buying all my produce at the Asian market?
Everyday vegetables like mushrooms and red bell peppers were about 50% cheaper than at my usual supermarket — and specialty items such as bean sprouts and fresh ginger were even more of a bargain.
Granted, the Asian market probably won’t stock your preferred cereal brand or pasture-raised eggs — but for produce and Asian-specific ingredients, it’s a clear winner.
Making stir-fry AND keeping money in my wallet?
That’s a great way to make my Japanese mom and my Jewish dad proud.
Overspending at the grocery store? Take a look at these strategies and resources to cut grocery costs.
Alex Rivers, a senior food writer for Savinly, enjoys finding budget-friendly culinary adventures. Follow along at alexrivers.com or say hello on Twitter @alex_rivers.













