Indian grocery list

How to Build Your Indian Grocery List for a Week—With Swagat as Your Source

Shopping for Indian groceries for a week can be quite overwhelming. When you enter the marketplace, it might feel like you are lost among the spices, pulses, and snacks. If you are someone who likes to prepare ahead of time, this Indian grocery list can be your lifesaver.

Why Choose Swagat Grocery for Your Indian Grocery List 

Before we jump into the actual list and make your life 10x easier while shopping, let’s look at why shopping at Swagat Grocery is a smart move for your weekly planning.  

  • Based in Illinois, this powerhouse of an Indian grocery store ships to many states across the US.

  • Their catalog covers a wide range of Indian pantry essentials. From frozen foods and canned goods to spices, oils/ghee are all available here.

  • For people who are living outside major metro areas or places where local Indian stores are limited, this is a great alternative.

Indian Grocery Shopping List to Last You A Week

Using Swagat Grocery, we have planned out a weekly grocery list and how you can execute it. 

Step 1: Define Your Weekend Planning & Meal Outline

When planning for your weekly groceries, the first thing to do is to map out what meals you will cook. For example:

  • Breakfasts: perhaps simpler, like poha, upma, or Indian-style eggs/roti.

  • Lunches: maybe a dal and rice or roti and sabzi combo.

  • Dinners: a little more elaborate. For example, curry and rice/roti, or a one-pot meal.

  • Snacks: maybe Indian snacks or evening chai and biscuits.

  • Condiments/sides: pickles, chutneys, and papads.

Keeping this in mind, you can build the list of flours, pulses, spices, and oil/ghee. The grocery list should cover the staples plus a few items for the upcoming week. You can also stock a little extra in case you run out. 

Step 2: Build the Core Pantry (One-Time or Monthly Items)

Before you shop each week, you need to make sure that your evergreen items are in the cupboard. These are not things you reorder every week, except when you are restocking. Examples include: 

  • Whole spices (cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and whole garam masala).

  • Oils/ghee.

  • Dals/pulses.

  • Flours (atta, rice flour, etc.).

  • Pickles and chutneys (longer shelf life).

  • Snacks and ready items that you keep for occasional indulgence.

By having these ready at hand, your list can focus on fresh Indian groceries plus short-life items. This pantry serves as a great starter kit, and you can restock from there. 

Step 3: Plan the Weekly Fresh & Short-Life Items

Now, for some healthy grocery shopping and a well-balanced weekly plan, consider these categories for your list. 

Produce/Fresh Vegetables & Fruits

  • Greens like spinach, kale, and fenugreek (methi).

  • Vegetables for sabzis. Choose seasonal veggies as well as staples. Cauliflower, potatoes, eggplant, peas, and carrots make for a balanced meal.

  • Fruits for snacks or desserts.

Dairy/Protein

  • Yogurt (or Indian curd)

  • Paneer (if you use it)

  • Eggs or other proteins, depending on your diet.

Grains & Rice

While you must have stocked rice and flour, check your pantry before shopping to see if you need to add basmati or atta. 

Spices/Oils/Condiments

Though you must have most of the daily used spices, you might need to replenish a few, like chili powder or coriander powder. Pickles or chutneys sometimes also need restocking. 

Snacks/Extras

One or two Indian snack items can be indulged in without derailing the healthy shopping agenda. 

Frozen/Canned Items

These are great for when guests are over or cooking fresh food is hard. Having these items as your backup can be a lifesaver. 

Five Highlighted Products from Swagat Grocery

With all the information above, here are five essential items in any Indian grocery starter kit. Incorporate these into your weekly shopping for a well-stocked pantry. 

1. DEEP Cumin Seeds 200g

It is a core spice that is used repeatedly in Indian dishes. Why include it? Because it is a foundational spice for tadka (tempering), sabzis, dal, etc. They are also used in rich spice blends like garam masala or can be added as a crunchy top to raita or salads. Having it well-stocked means you do not have to panic in the middle of the week. 

Pro tip: Check the freshness by smelling the seeds when you receive them. Store them in an airtight jar. 

2. MDH Meat Ka Masala 500g

It is a popular Indian spice blend that is used for non-vegetarian dishes like mutton, chicken, and keema curries. It is designed to improve the flavor and aroma of meat-based dishes. It gives a rich and spicy North Indian taste. If your weekly cooking plan includes a meat curry or two, having this blend makes things a whole lot easier. 

Pro Tip: You can also use it in your kebabs to enhance the taste. 

3. SWAD Garlic Paste 7.5 oz

This paste is made from the best quality, freshly picked garlic and ginger with salt. It forms aromatic bases for Indian dishes like curries and gravies. It is considered a kitchen essential in Swagat Grocery for its convenience and the ability to provide a consistent taste. When you are short of time, you can still make a sabzi or curry without too much prep with this.

Pro Tip: Use in moderation for better flavor. Use this for marinades to bring out the best taste. 

4. MOTHER’S Mango Pickle 500 g


This is a staple condiment in Indian households. This is a classic pickle that adds a tangy flavor to every dish. The balance of heat, tang, and aroma makes it a versatile flavor booster for Indian cooking. Get this condiment because it elevates everyday meals and lasts for a long time. You can also use it as a spice base in achari curries and kebabs. 

Pro tip: Keep the jar cold once opened. Use a clean spoon each time to reduce contamination. 

5. SWAD Cracked Wheat (Coarse) 4 lb

It is a healthy grain alternative for Indian breakfasts or sides. It has a nutty flavor and a chewy texture and is commonly used to make upma, pulav, or savory porridge. It supports healthier cooking and adds variety. 

Pro tip: Soak the cracked wheat briefly before cooking.

Build a Pantry That Inspires Cooking Every Day

A well-stocked pantry is the main star of any creativity you see in Indian kitchens. Building and maintaining a weekly Indian grocery list will help you save money and reduce waste. With key spices, lentils, and flour ready at hand, you can make meal prepping effortless.

Conclusion

Working on your grocery list does not have to be overwhelming. With Swagat Grocery, you have access to a one-stop shop for everything that is needed in Indian cooking and more. Whether you are an experienced cook or just starting out, we offer a quality convenience that remains unmatched. 

Visit Swagat Groceries today and make your grocery list authentically Indian.


Frequently Asked Questions about Indian Grocery Lists with Swagat:

Q1. How can I plan my grocery list for a week?

A1. You can start by outlining the meals for the week. List the ingredients you will need based on that. You should focus on pantry staples and fresh items.

Q2. Where can I buy authentic Indian groceries in the U.S.?

A2. Swagat Grocery is a trusted Indian store that provides authentic Indian kitchen staples across many states. 

Q3. Can I buy Indian spices online?

A3. Yes, you can buy these spices online from Swagat Grocery. It also offers a wide range of authentic spice blends.

 

Back to blog