Being (involuntarily) stuck at home means we have time to try out new recipes. The thing is, it can be difficult to source ingredients for international recipes if we can’t actually go out to find them. Most of the country or region-specific grocers are brick and mortar stores we usually just run to when we’re looking for something.
It’s practically impossible to find stuff like ghee, dried kombu, or a specific type of mushroom for a specific recipe step in mainstream grocery stores. Not to mention the fact that if you do find whatever niche ingredient you need at your local grocer, it might be old stock because that product isn’t as popular as more common items.
If you’re struggling to find a certain grain, powder, broth base, or condiment from abroad, here are some online grocers that might have those ingredients on hand.
Japanese
New Hatchin Grocerant
Finding ingredients for traditional Japanese dishes is usually a challenge, but New Hatchin most likely has whatever it is you’re looking for on its shelves. The Japanese grocery has branches all over Metro Manila, specifically in Quezon City, Makati, and Malate. You can order online through its Facebook page, where they will provide you with a list of on-hand items you can choose from.
For those of you who aren’t really in a cooking mood, you can also just order from their in-house restaurant.
Korean
Assi Supermart
For those of you who grew up with a K-drama-obsessed parent (or if you’re the K-drama obsessed parent), you’re probably already familiar with Assi Mart. Assi Mart is the holy grail of Korean groceries. Its real-life and online shelves are stocked to the brim with all the Korean food, beverages, cookware, and daily essentials you could possibly need.
The best part about ordering from Assi is that it’s conveniently available through the Grab app. Your jjajangmyeon, tteokbokki, kimchi, and other banchan cravings are just a swipe away.
Chinese
Hong Kong House
Hong Kong House is a treasure trove for all things deliciously made in China. They stock snacks, pantry staples, and ready-to-heat meals from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and other parts of Asia. If there’s a specific rice wine, chili oil, or fermented jarred bean curd you need, Hong Kong House is your best bet at finding it.
They also stock the famous White Rabbit milk drink and Black and White milk from Hong Kong, which are notoriously hard to come by. You can place your orders through its website.
Indian
Riwayat
Indian cuisine is very spice-heavy. There are usually around five or more different spices required for a basic curry recipe. Riwayat has them, and a lot more. Their spice section is specifically impressive with over a hundred different spices on their digital shelves. Most—if not all—of the items they sell are straight from India. They also stock ready-made food if you’re not really the cooking type.
You can order from Riwayat through MetroMart.