Spokane, Washington, often celebrated for its craft breweries and scenic riverside views, holds a delicious secret within its city limits: a thriving and diverse collection of Asian food markets. These markets, more than just places to buy groceries, are portals to other cultures, offering a rich tapestry of flavors, aromas, and ingredients that can transport you to bustling streets of Seoul, Tokyo, or Hanoi without ever leaving the Inland Northwest. Stepping inside one of these markets is an adventure for the senses, a culinary exploration that invites both seasoned chefs and curious foodies alike to discover the authentic tastes of Asia. The Asian food market scene in Spokane, while perhaps not as widely known as its other culinary offerings, is a testament to the city’s growing multicultural landscape and a vibrant hub for the community.
It’s a testament to Spokane’s spirit that even without being a massive metropolis, it holds a great selection of authentic asian cuisine and places to source asian food. You might think that a smaller city wouldn’t have much to offer but you’d be dead wrong. Spokane has a host of markets where you can procure your ingredients and find some amazing prepared foods.
A World of Flavors Under One Roof
Asian food markets in Spokane are treasure troves of unique products that are difficult, if not impossible, to find in mainstream grocery stores. Here, you can wander aisles stocked with an astounding variety of fresh produce, from exotic fruits like dragon fruit and rambutan to leafy greens like bok choy and gai lan. Walls of shelves are lined with countless types of soy sauce, fish sauce, and chili pastes, each with its distinct flavor profile and regional origin. You’ll find dried mushrooms, seaweed snacks, rice noodles of every shape and size, and an impressive array of spices, both familiar and unfamiliar.
Some of the prominent asian markets in Spokane include but are not limited to:
- Asian World Food Market: This market is focused on Chinese cuisine, and they have many vegetables and ingredients that are difficult to find anywhere else.
- Hong Kong Market: Another excellent market, also specializing in a wide variety of ingredients and some amazing take out food.
- Kim’s Oriental Market: This is a very popular market with Korean food. You can find authentic products here that you might expect in Los Angeles or New York City.
Each of these markets offers a unique experience, reflecting the diverse culinary traditions of the Asian countries they represent. Whether you’re seeking ingredients for a specific recipe or simply want to explore the unfamiliar, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. Many offer prepared foods such as sushi, rice dishes, stir fries, and dumplings. They often have a hot bar, or a deli, where you can select ingredients for a fresh lunch, or take food home to share with the family.
Spotlight on Key Markets
Let’s take a closer look at a few of these culinary destinations, each offering a unique glimpse into the world of Asian cuisine.
Asian World Food Market: A Chinese Culinary Hub
Asian World Food Market is a long-standing fixture in the Spokane asian food market landscape. The market’s offerings reflect the vast and varied cuisine of China, from the spicy dishes of Sichuan to the delicate flavors of Cantonese cooking. One of the most striking features is the vast array of produce. You’ll find fresh, locally sourced vegetables alongside imported delicacies like Chinese broccoli, water spinach, and bitter melon. The shelves are stocked with an incredible variety of sauces, condiments, and spices, including dozens of different types of soy sauce, fermented bean curd, and chili oil.
One particular product that stands out is the selection of dried goods. Here, you’ll find everything from dried scallops and oysters to black fungus and shiitake mushrooms, all essential ingredients in traditional Chinese soups and stews. Customers rave about the freshness of the seafood and the knowledgeable staff who are always willing to offer cooking tips and suggestions. The owner, Mr. Chen, is a fixture in the community. “I love seeing people discover new flavors and ingredients,” he says. “We’re here to share the tastes of China with Spokane.”
Hong Kong Market: Authentic Flavors and Community
Hong Kong Market is a bustling hub, filled with the aromas of freshly cooked food and the sounds of lively conversation. The market’s shelves are packed with an impressive selection of Asian groceries, from staples like rice and noodles to more obscure ingredients like preserved mustard greens and fermented black beans. The store also boasts a fantastic deli with a wide variety of prepared foods, including roast duck, char siu pork, and steamed buns.
A popular dish that showcases Hong Kong Market is definitely their wide variety of dim sum. These bite-sized treats, traditionally served with tea, are a staple of Cantonese cuisine and a must-try for any visitor. From the classic steamed pork buns to the crispy spring rolls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. This market features a community bulletin board, and has notices regarding job openings and cultural activities in the area. It has become a hub for the asian population in Spokane.
Kim’s Oriental Market: A Korean Culinary Experience
Kim’s Oriental Market offers a unique and authentic Korean culinary experience. The market is renowned for its extensive selection of kimchi, the iconic fermented cabbage that is a staple of Korean cuisine. You’ll find dozens of varieties, from the classic napa cabbage kimchi to more unusual versions made with radish, cucumber, or even seafood.
The market also offers a wide range of other Korean specialties, including gochujang (fermented chili paste), doenjang (fermented soybean paste), and a variety of Korean snacks and candies. One item particularly popular at Kim’s is the selection of mochi. Mochi is a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice. The rice is pounded into a paste and molded into the desired shape. In Japan it is traditionally made in a ceremony called mochitsuki. While it is Japanese, Mochi has become popular enough to be sold in Korean markets as well. Customers appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, who are always happy to explain the different types of kimchi and offer recommendations for other Korean dishes.
A Community Hub
These markets are more than just places to buy groceries; they are important community hubs that play a vital role in preserving and celebrating Asian culture in Spokane. They provide a space for the Asian community to connect with their heritage and share their traditions with others. For many immigrants, these markets are a source of comfort and familiarity, offering a taste of home in a new and unfamiliar environment. The Asian food market scene is also a bridge between cultures, introducing Spokane residents to the diverse and delicious flavors of Asia.
These markets also support local businesses and entrepreneurs, providing a platform for them to sell their products and share their culinary expertise. Many of the market owners are immigrants themselves, who have worked hard to build their businesses and contribute to the community. By supporting these markets, you are not only enjoying delicious food but also helping to sustain a vibrant and diverse cultural landscape.
Tips for Navigating Spokane’s Asian Food Markets
If you’re planning a visit to one of Spokane’s Asian food markets, here are a few tips to help you make the most of your experience:
- Go with a list, but be open to exploring. It’s always a good idea to have a general idea of what you’re looking for, but don’t be afraid to wander the aisles and discover new ingredients.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The staff at these markets are usually very knowledgeable and happy to help you find what you need. They can also offer cooking tips and suggestions.
- Try something new. Be adventurous and sample some of the unfamiliar ingredients. You might just discover your new favorite food.
- Bring cash. Some markets may not accept credit cards, so it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Be respectful of the culture and customs. Remember that these markets are a reflection of a different culture, so be mindful of your behavior and show respect for the traditions and customs.
Culinary Inspiration: A Simple Stir-Fry Recipe
Here’s a simple stir-fry recipe that you can easily make using ingredients found at any of Spokane’s Asian food markets:
Ingredients:
- pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- tablespoons soy sauce
- tablespoon cornstarch
- tablespoons vegetable oil
- cloves garlic, minced
- inch ginger, grated
- cup broccoli florets
- cup sliced carrots
- cup sliced bell peppers
- cup snow peas
- cups cooked rice
Instructions:
- In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Marinate for at least minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry for seconds.
- Add chicken and stir-fry until cooked through.
- Add broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and snow peas. Stir-fry for minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Serve over cooked rice.
Feel free to adapt this recipe to your own tastes and preferences. Experiment with different vegetables, sauces, and spices to create your own signature stir-fry. The asian food market scene in Spokane is sure to hold many more ingredients for your unique creation.
A Culinary Jewel
Spokane’s Asian food markets are a culinary jewel waiting to be discovered. They offer a unique and authentic taste of Asia, a chance to explore new flavors and ingredients, and a glimpse into a vibrant and diverse culture. These markets are a testament to the growing multicultural landscape of Spokane and a valuable asset to the community. So, the next time you’re looking for a culinary adventure, be sure to visit one of Spokane’s Asian food markets. You might find a new favorite food, learn something new about a different culture, and support a local business all at the same time. What are you waiting for? Spokane’s asian food market scene awaits.
The possibilities are endless with all the things you can make with asian ingredients, or all the cultures you can share with friends and family. These small markets in Spokane are testaments to the spirit of asian food and culture that can be enjoyed by everyone!
