Much as I hate to heap more misery upon the beleagured Superquinn group, I did promise I’d compare their Chinese New Year offers with those of the Asian Markets. These are from the Oriental Emporium on Middle Abbey St in Dublin, and should form the basis of a Chinese/ Thai storecupboard. I think most ethnic shops would be of a similar price:
- Kikkoman Soy Sauce – 1 litre €5.20
- Mae Ploy Curry Paste 400g – €2.00
- Sweet Chilli Sauce 226g – €1.80
- Jimmy’s (mind-blowingly delicious) Satay Sauce 360g – €3.15
- Chaokoh Coconut Milk 400ml 95c
- Sesame Oil 580ml – €3.20
- Oyster Sauce – €1.80 for 150ml
- Rice Vinegar – €1.90 for 600ml
- 397g Hoisin Sauce – €2.30
So, for around €22.40, these ingredients will see you through quite a lot of Asian dishes. You should only need rice, noodles, veg, and stock. Brown sugar is another important ingredient. If you really want to mark Chinese New Year, there is better choice and value at your local Asian food store than most of the big multiples, such as Superquinn. Over the next few weeks, Jean, Rercy, and I will be posting some delicious Chinese recipes to get in the festive mood.