Asian Market Shopping Guide

What is the name of the channel that Mandy is hosting?

What is the main focus of the video?

Mandy suggests visiting the Asian market when they receive fresh produce, which is usually daily.

What is the key characteristic of Chinese eggplants that indicates freshness?

What strategy does Mandy recommend for minimizing waste when buying baby bok choy?

What is the name of the super spicy chili that Mandy mentions?

How can you determine the freshness of lettuce stem?

Match the following tofu types with their typical uses:

Asian Market Shopping Guide

Produce Section Tips:
- Ask staff for the date new produce arrives. Smaller markets restock weekly, not daily like large supermarkets.
- Chinese Eggplant: Select firm eggplants with a larger light-colored area between the stem and body. Smaller/missing area indicates older eggplant.
- Baby Bok Choy: Tear off outer leaves to use first, then keep core for up to a month in the fridge.
- Thai Bird's Eye Chili (Zhi Tian Jiao): Highly spicy, freeze for later use.
- Lettuce Stem (Wo Suan): Check base for brown spots/hollow areas: bigger spots mean longer shelf life, not ideal selection.
- Lotus Roots: Examine holes and cut surfaces from the cut end for dirt; wash carefully. Look for clean holes free of dirt.
- Daikon Radish: Choose denser, heavier daikon for freshness and juiciness.
- Bitter Melon: Enjoy the distinct bitter flavor.
- Chinese Celery: Significantly more pungent scent than Western celery.
- Chive Flower: Crunchy texture and garlicky flavour.

Tofu Section Tips

Tofu Types:
- Silken/Soft Tofu: Good for soups.
- Medium Firm/Firm Tofu: Ideal for stir-fries and stews.
Tofu Sheets: Thinly julienned for keto noodles or egg roll replacement.
Soy Puffs: Fried tofu with a unique sponginess; great in soups and stir-fries; can be used to make stuffed tofu.

This guide provides essential tips for navigating the produce section of an Asian market. Learn how to select the freshest ingredients like Chinese eggplants, baby bok choy, and daikon radish to enhance your culinary dishes. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned shopper, these insights will help you make informed choices.