What Is a Persimmon? How to Tell When It’s Ripe & Ways to Eat It
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
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 […]
What Is Ube? The Purple Ingredient Taking the Dessert World by Storm
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 […]
A Guide to Indian Chutneys: Mint, Tamarind, and Coconut Recipes to Try
A condiment often associated with Indian cuisine, chutneys are becoming popular worldwide. These tasty dips originated in India and add a delightful contrast to the region’s often spicy dishes. Chutney can be spicy, sweet, tangy, or cooling, based on the herbs and spices used during preparation. However they are made, chutneys have the power to […]
Fresh Herbs and Spices for Spring: How to Cook Lighter Without Losing Flavor
Spring is a season of renewal, with many people turning to brighter flavors, lighter meals, and fresher ingredients as the weather turns. During this time, many want to shift away from heavy winter comfort foods but still crave satisfying flavor. Fresh herbs and spices are the perfect way to cooking lighter without sacrificing depth of […]
One Ingredient, Four Ways — Chickpeas Around the World
One Ingredient, Many Cultures High protein and full of umami flavor, chickpeas are a global staple found in homes all around the world. Chickpeas are highly versatile and have many health benefits, including contributing to overall heart and bone health. Chickpeas are especially popular in Indian, Middle Eastern, Latin, and Asian dishes, included in everything […]
Lunar New Year Party Snacks That Bring Luck to the Table
Lunar New Year is a festival that celebrates the beginning of the Chinese New Year. Known as a time of renewal, luck, and togetherness, this holiday is an important part of Eastern and Southeast Asian cultures. Food is at the heart of the celebration, an easy, sharable way to honor traditions and bring people together. […]
For the Love of Chocolate: Sweet Traditions from Around the Globe
Chocolate is not only a delicious treat. It is a timeless symbol of love, indulgence, and celebration, especially around Valentine’s Day, the holiday of love. Beyond the humble chocolate bar, chocolate appears in many forms across cultures, from spiced drinks and baked goods to rich desserts. This global tour of chocolate dishes from International Fresh […]
Global Gift Guide for Food Lovers: Holiday Treats from Every Corner of the World
With the holiday season rapidly approaching, it’s time to consider that food is one of the most meaningful gifts of all. Food connects people through flavor and culture, exciting their tastebuds and inviting conversation. Gifting international treats from your Naperville grocery store, International Fresh Market, is the perfect way to introduce friends and family to […]
All About Tamarind: The Sweet-Sour Superstar in Global Cuisine
Want to add more fruit to your recipes? Tamarind is a sweet, sour fruit that home cooks and chefs use around the world to give their dishes a tangy tone. Latin American, Indian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines use tamarind in many different forms, including pods, pastes, and concentrates, to add more flavor to everything […]