Navigating Indian Grocery Aisles: A Beginner's Guide
The scent of a range of spices, flavors, and aromas can overwhelm you as you walk into a bustling Indian grocery store. The packaging may seem unfamiliar, and the dozens of pickle jars may seem intriguing. This guide will help you walk through the aisles with confidence.
Why Shop at an Indian Grocery Store?
People perceive Indian grocery shopping as a comprehensive experience that immerses you in a world of delectable options. Here are some compelling reasons as to why you should wander the aisles of an Indian market.
1. Cultural & Culinary Diversity
India is not monotonous when it comes to its culture, and food is a big part of it. In a single region of India, you can find quite a variety of food as people from different cultures seamlessly blend and live together. A typical Indian market would have everything from basmati rice to dosa batters.
2. Better Selection & Authenticity
Mainstream supermarkets like Costco or 7-Eleven may carry a few ethnic items from different cultures. However, they do not carry the full spectrum of their possibilities. Various types of specialty dals (lentils), special types of regional spice blends, or desi ghee are found as hidden gems in the corners of Indian markets.
3. Cost Efficiency & Bulk Buying
Ethnic stores often sell staples in larger packs or value sizes because they consistently cater to communities that use these ingredients in everyday cooking. This brings down the cost per unit immensely.
4. Supporting Community & Small Producers
If you buy from these Indian grocery stores instead of multi-stores, you will be supporting small importers and ethnic food entrepreneurs who are constantly trying to provide a home away from home for their community.
Navigating the Indian Store Aisles: Top Five Products and Highlights
When you step into an Indian store, it is easy to have no idea about what you need. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Indian market aisle with ease.
1. Essential Grains & Flours for Everyday Cooking
The grain and flour aisle is the foundation of a quintessential Indian meal. These make the base for curries, breads, and snacks. 5 must-have products from this aisle have to be basmati rice, sona masoori rice, sooji (semolina), atta (whole wheat flour), and besan (gram flour).
Item in Highlight: Royal Rice
Royal Rice is a premium basmati rice that has extra-long grains. It remains fluffy and separate even after cooking. It has a beautiful taste and texture that adds to its appeal as a staple Indian food. Its rich and exquisite natural aroma would stay with you even after you have cleaned your plate.
2. Spices & Seasonings: The Heart of Indian Grocery Shopping
India has been the center of spices for centuries. This is likely the most important and confusing aisle due to the collection's size. Whether you shop in-store or buy Indian groceries online, you need to stock at least these 5 essential spices to unlock your palate: garam masala, red chili powder, turmeric powder, cumin seeds, and kasuri methi (dried fenugreek leaves).
Item in Highlight: MDH Garam Masala
This garam masala is a versatile spice that adds richness and warmth to every dish. It mostly goes well with savory dishes, adding a layer of deliciousness that makes Indian cuisine so exotic. The lingering aroma will make you salivate before the food arrives.
3. Indian Canned Food & Pantry Helpers
When time is short but you would rather not compromise on taste, Indian canned foods and jarred condiments are the go-to for everyone. The 5 most popular canned foods and pantry helpers would include canned chickpeas, canned coconut milk, tamarind concentrate, canned kesar mango pulp, and mixed vegetables in a can.
Item in Highlight: Ziyad Chick Peas
Ziyad canned chickpeas significantly reduce cooking time while retaining their full flavor profile in quick Indian meals like chole bhature or chana masala. Ziyad canned chickpeas retain a significant portion of their original nutritional values. It will be able to fit seamlessly into broader dietary practices.
4. Indian Dairy Products & Refrigerated Staples
A trip to the Indian market is incomplete without Indian dairy products and refrigerated staples. These products enrich gravies, desserts, and snacks. They are full of nutrition and contribute significantly to our health. The five must-have items on this aisle have to be paneer (Indian cottage cheese), ghee (clarified butter), fresh yogurt, flavored lassi drinks, and milk solids or khoya.
Item in Highlight: Deep Paneer
This fresh, rennet-free, lacto-vegetarian paneer is the first choice of everyone. Its mild, creamy taste and firm texture hold its shape well while cooking. Whether you are making paneer tikka or paneer pakoda, you must never miss this item in your cart. It will add a richness to your creamy vegetarian meals that you have been missing so far.
Your Indian Pantry Starts Here
Rather than becoming lost in the aisles, utilize this guide as your trusted guide to navigate Indian markets like a seasoned professional. With these items, you can cook and snack on Indian food, which is too good to resist.
Conclusion
Swagat Indian Grocery welcomes you with open arms to provide you with a portal to all things Indian food. With our authentic and premium-quality material, you can turn every dinner into an Indian delight. Fill your pantry with authentic Indian staples, because they are too delicious to miss out on.
Frequently Asked Questions about Navigating Indian Market Aisles:
Q1. Do Indian stores have options for vegetarians?
A1. A large part of Indian food heritage has been its diverse vegetarian food. Many people in India follow vegetarian practices, so Indian stores always have that option handy.
Q2. Is Indian canned food nutritious?
A2: The canning process of Indian food retains most of the nutritious value of the goods.
Q3. Can I locate basmati rice in an Indian store?
A3. Basmati rice is the foundational block of Indian food, so it is highly likely that you would locate it in an Indian store near you.
