Moving to the UK as an international student sounds exciting. But very quickly, you realise something small yet important: food feels different.
Not bad. Just… not yours.
As a Chinese student who also lived in Japan, I found myself going back to Asian supermarkets again and again. Not just for groceries, but for comfort, routine, and a sense of control over my daily life.
Here are the things I always buy — and why they matter more than you think.
Snacks that feel like home
The first thing I always pick up is snacks.
Things like Pocky, wafer biscuits, pineapple cakes, or even familiar crisps. These are the foods I grew up with. I don’t buy them because I need them — I buy them because they make me feel at home.
When you’re living abroad, small things like this become surprisingly important. A familiar taste can instantly change your mood after a long day.
It’s not just food. It’s comfort.
Frozen food for busy days
Next, I always check the frozen section.
Dumplings and gyoza are essentials. They’re quick, easy, and still feel like a proper meal. On busy days, I can cook something warm in under 10 minutes without relying on a takeaway.
One thing I always stock up on is thinly sliced meat. It’s surprisingly hard to find in UK supermarkets, but it’s a staple in many Asian dishes. With this, I can quickly make hot pot, stir-fries, or simple rice dishes.
It saves time, but more importantly, it helps me eat in a way that feels familiar.
Sauces that change everything
If there’s one category that truly transforms my cooking, it’s sauces.
I always keep things like chilli oil (like Lao Gan Ma), Thai sweet chilli sauce, and barbecue sauce at home. These are my shortcuts.
Sometimes UK supermarket food can feel a bit plain. But with the right sauce, even the simplest ingredients can become something enjoyable.
It’s not about cooking something fancy. It’s about making everyday meals better — quickly and easily.
Soups that create moments
Another thing I always buy is soup bases.
Miso soup is my go-to, especially after a long day or even after a night out. It’s light, comforting, and easy to make.
Hot pot bases are also a favourite. When I have friends over, I don’t need to plan much. Just a soup base, some vegetables, and meat — and suddenly, it turns into a shared experience.
Food becomes more than just eating. It becomes a way to connect.
Instant noodles (but better)
Finally, noodles.
Korean, Chinese, Japanese — each one is different. Korean noodles tend to be slightly sweet and spicy. Chinese flavours are often stronger and richer. Japanese ramen feels more subtle and balanced.
I never get bored of them.
When I’m tired, I just add an egg or some vegetables, and it becomes a proper meal. Simple, but satisfying.
More than just groceries
At first glance, these might just look like random items from an Asian supermarket.
But for me, they represent something more.
They are how I maintain my routine.
How I stay connected to my culture.
And how I build a life that feels like my own — even in a different country.
If you’re an international student in the UK, you might find your own version of this.
And when you do, it makes everything feel just a little bit easier.
By Yumeka, a PGT Marketing student and Student Content Creator