My Go-To Asian Cooking Ingredients (And Where to Buy Them)
This page lists the ingredients I use most often and where I usually buy them.
Since ingredient choice can make a big difference in Asian cooking, I wanted to share the products I personally use in my recipes.
If an online purchase link is available, I include it here. Please note that the Amazon links may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them.
That said, for most ingredients, I honestly recommend buying them offline when possible. Prices are often better, and it is easier to find good options in person. This page will continue to grow as I add more ingredients I use regularly.
Liquids
Soy Sauce
I usually use Sempio Naturally Brewed Soy Sauce 701.
Sempio 501 is also a good substitute, but I personally prefer 701. The reason is that 701 contains oligosaccharides, while 501 contains corn syrup, so I tend to choose 701.
Buy online: → Amazon Link → HMart Link
Buy offline: You can usually find it at a nearby H Mart.
Vinegar
I usually use basic distilled white vinegar from stores like Lidl or Aldi.
It is affordable, clean in flavor, and works really well in most recipes.
As an alternative, I sometimes use white wine vinegar.
I do not use Korean apple cider vinegar because the flavor can become too sharp and stand out too much. I especially avoid the very strong concentrated ones, like x3 versions.
Buy offline: Available at most grocery stores like Lidl, Aldi, or other local supermarkets.
Offline product link: → Lidl Link
Pantry Staples
Raw Cane Sugar
I usually use raw cane sugar instead of regular white sugar.
It has a deeper, richer flavor compared to standard white sugar, and I personally prefer that flavor in my cooking.
Honestly, any raw cane sugar works fine. You don’t need a specific brand.
Buy online: → Amazon Link