In the above table some of the items are recommended
to be bought at the american stores while some are recommended to be bought
at the Indian stores. Most of the spices can be asked for by their American
names. The Indian names are only for reference purpose and are sometimes useful
to know.Usually in the Indian grocery stores spices, lentils, peas, powders,
basmati rice and the rest of the items are available in larger quantities,
for lesser price, are fresher and more flavorful. As whole spices, lentils
and powders have a longer shelf line it is wiser to buy them here. But items
like long grain rice, short grain rice, oil, butter to make clarified butter
and definetley Wheat flour, All purpose flour, all kinds of beans, dry fruits
and nuts are better in quality and price at the american stores. All
kinds of nuts and dry fruits are usually more expensive at the indian
stores. The spices at the american stores are usually found in the spice isle
where all the bottled Mc cormick, Spice Island and other brand names including
store brands are located. Sometimes they are also found in the Mexican food
section isle or by the fresh produce. Rice is easily available in the american
stores in the rice and beans isle. Long grain white rice is preferred. Basmati
rice is available in small bags too in the same isle. Indian stores and some
chinese/asian stores get fresh vegetables every week. Vegetables like raw
green mango, small round and long eggplants, okra, drumsticks, radish, fenugreek
leaves, curry leaves (fresh/ dry), green chilies to name a few.