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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.