An Indian Thanksgiving: Give the Classic Feast an Indian-Inspired Twist

Assorted Indian dishes with curry, rice, naan, vegetables, and traditional sides.

The traditional Thanksgiving Day feast is built around flavors that were available to Native Americans and early settlers. Classical dishes like roast turkey, stuffing, green beans, and cranberries not only represent the holiday, they are the ultimate comfort food. While many households prefer to keep the same holiday menu year after year, a different cuisine […]

What Is a Persimmon? How to Tell When It’s Ripe & Ways to Eat It

Fresh orange persimmons in a rustic wire basket on a wooden table.

A persimmon is a distinctive, orange-colored fruit that takes center stage every fall. Native to East Asia, this ancient autumn staple has become a favorite seasonal treat across the globe. If you’ve never tried a persimmon, you’re probably wondering what it tastes like, how to tell when it is ripe, and how to serve it. […]

Coconut Around the World: How Different Cultures Cook with This Versatile Ingredient

Fresh coconut halves and coconut pieces representing the use of coconut in cuisines and recipes around the world.

Coconut is one of the world’s most versatile ingredients. Appearing in cuisines throughout Asia, India, Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond, it is used in everything from savory curries to drinks and desserts. For cooking purposes, coconut is available in milk, cream, water, oil, flaked, and fresh forms. Take a culinary trip around the world […]

Dosa at Home: How to Make India’s Crispy Rice and Lentil Crepes

South Indian masala dosa topped with spiced potato filling and coconut, served with sambar and chutney.

Known for its crisp exterior and lightly tangy flavor, dosa can be eaten at breakfast, for a snack, or as part of a meal. Whether folded around a warm potato filling or paired with classic accompaniments like sambar and chutneys, this Indian staple is easy to tailor to any taste. International Fresh Market, your Indian […]

Why Did My Pão de Queijo Go Wrong? 6 Common Brazilian Cheese Bread Mistakes

Freshly baked Brazilian pão de queijo cheese bread with golden, crisp exteriors served in a rustic basket.

Pão de quiejo is a Brazilian cheese bread that is crisp on the outside and chewy and airy on the inside. Relying on tapioca starch rather than flour, it features a signature elasticity that sets it apart from other baked goods. Despite a simple ingredient list, small preparation mistakes can dramatically alter the results of […]

How to Build an Authentic Mezze Platter for Your Next Gathering

Authentic Middle Eastern mezze platter with hummus, tzatziki, olives, feta cheese, fresh vegetables, pita bread, and marinated artichokes.

Designed for sharing, a Mezze Platter is ideal for parties, family gatherings, and casual entertaining. Popular throughout the Middle East and Mediterranean, it features a vibrant spread of contrasting flavors and textures, encouraging guests to graze and mingle at their own pace. In the Greater Chicago area, International Fresh Market is your destination for authentic […]

Refreshing Agua Frescas: Mexican Summer Drinks Made with Fresh Fruit

Assorted colorful agua frescas made with fresh fruit, citrus, and herbs, served over ice in glass jars.

Popular during hot summer months for their light, refreshing flavor, agua frescas are traditional Mexican drinks made with fresh fruits, flowers, grains, or seeds blended with water.  Common choices include: Our latin grocery store carries the authentic ingredients needed to make your summertime cooler. The History of Agua Frescas  Agua frescas translates to “cool waters” […]

What Is Ube? The Purple Ingredient Taking the Dessert World by Storm

Close-up of fresh purple ube (Filipino purple yam) showcasing its vibrant violet flesh and natural texture.

Prized for its naturally sweet, nutty flavor and striking color, ube is a vibrant purple yam native to the Philippines. This root vegetable has become increasingly popular in bakeries, cafes, and home kitchens around the world based on its flavor profile. Find authentic ube products and ingredients at our ethnic grocery store. What makes ube […]

How to Make a Crispy Japanese Chicken Katsu Sandwich at Home

Crispy Japanese chicken katsu sandwich made with breaded chicken cutlet, shredded lettuce, and soft white bread, served with katsu sauce.

Katsu sando, or chicken katsu sandwich, is a Japanese sandwich made with crispy breaded chicken and tangy tonkatsu sauce on soft milk bread. Popular in Japanese cafés, specialty sandwich shops, and convenience stores, they are loved by many and suprisingly simple to make. Our Asian market in Naperville, IL is a premier source for the […]

How to Make Authentic Peruvian Lomo Saltado at Home

Traditional Peruvian lomo saltado made with seared beef, crispy French fries, tomatoes, and fresh herbs, showcasing the flavors of Peru's iconic stir-fry dish.

One of Peru’s most iconic dishes, Lomo Saltado is a delicious combination of marinated beef, vegetables, soy sauce, and crispy French fries. A reflection of the country’s unique cultural heritage, it stands as a brilliant fusion of traditional Peruvian and Chinese influences. This comforting stir-fry is a testament to how diverse migration can shape a […]