I've been shopping at Asian markets for years and it used to be quite difficult to find them in Central New Jersey. More recently they are popping up and I'm here to share with you a few reasons why you should start being adventurous and go!
The Bakery:
When you first walk into most Asian Markets there is a bakery right smack in front of you! You will see a strong French influence in there baked goods, filled with delicious butter creams and chocolate; very sophisticated and not too sweet. You can also get steamed buns and stuffed breads that are mouth watering!
The Fruits and Vegetables:
I don't even know where to begin to tell you that it is unbelievably impressive. There are things there that you probably have never seen in your lifetime that are just intriguing and in just about any color! The price - cheap, cheap, cheap!
The Meats:
There is usually a butcher counter that has a large variety of meats and cuts. I have experimented with most of them and I do have my favorites, one being the shaved pork loin slices. They are paper thin and quick stir fry nicely and can be julienned and thrown into soups raw and will cook just from the heat of the liquid. Shaved meat is also available in beef and lamb. The frozen meat section is like a bargain store in itself. Rummage through and you'll find some really great stuff! I do avoid the chicken feet and pig ears - lol!
The Seafood:
Most seafood counters are huge since fish is a major part of an Asian diet. If it swims they have it! Definitely my favorite section. You can also request how you want your fish prepared - cleaned, skinned, boned, head on, head off, fillets, steaks etc... it's sometimes a challenge to communicate, but you will get your point across just from your expression when the fish eyes are staring at you!
Groceries:
It's like an exploration! Most things are written in Chinese and Korean, but if you look at the shelf labels they most often will have the english translation. Every noodle style you ever wanted is available, thick, thin, broad, fat, wheat, corn, buckwheat, rice, sobo and more! I can't even begin to tell you about the seasonings - you'll need to spend the day there. Dumplings of every species are available and if you are a tea drinker, you've hit pay dirt!
Here's a list of my favorite markets in order of preference:
1. HMART in Edison on Rte 27 - my favorite hands down and the food court is the best!!!
2. Asian Food Market in Marlboro on Rte 79
3. Asian Grocer in Hazlet on Rte 35
4. Asian Food Center of Princeton
It's true, Asian markets are fun, and this post is very accurate!
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