Have you ever come across a recipe that you so badly want to try, but it has a couple one-off ingredients you would likely never use again? Trust us when we say, you’ll use the ingredients below in way more than only Asian cuisine.

1. Sesame Oil

There are two types of sesame oil: dark sesame oil and light sesame oil.

While we recommend both, you should choose which would best fit your needs and better yet, your taste.

Light sesame oil has a high smoke point and is suitable for deep-frying,

Dark sesame oil is made from roasted seeds and has a lower smoke point, it’s best when frying and sautéing meats and vegetables.

Some will argue that dark sesame oil is best for flavoring and light sesame oil is best for cooking. We’ve used both interchangeably and either has yet to fail me.

Both types of oil have a rich nutty flavor that will give any dish a great boost; though the lighter version has a milder flavor.

Sesame oil will dress up any meat and vegetable combo and of course goes great with most, if not all, noodle dishes.

After you’ve made your traditional Asian cuisine, use your remaining sesame oil in your favorite home-made vinaigrette, on popcorn during movie night, and over ice cream on a hot summer day.

And if you’re still not convinced, checkout these recipes to step up your sesame oil game.

Find the sesame oil at United Noodles Minneapolis in Aisle 19.

2. Five-Spice

Also known as “wonder powder.”

Some say it has a distinct licorice-like taste but don’t let that scare you off. Its complex flavor is warm and sweet.

This spice usually consists of the following aromatic ingredients: cassia, star anise, fennel seeds, anise pepper, and cloves.

While it can be used in stir-fry, as a meat rub, and occasionally added to sauces, the powerful blend pairs especially well with fatty-meats like duck and pork.

For a flavorful twist on the familiar side try this spicy sweet potato wedges recipe.

Otherwise, you’ll be sure to please guests with your next charcuterie board if you use this Five-Spice Cranberry Relish with Goat Cheese.

Find sesame oil at United Noodles Minneapolis in Aisle 17.

3. Rice Vinegar

Not to be confused with rice wine, rice vinegar is made from fermented rice and has a mild flavor with a hint of sweetness.

As a staple ingredient in many Asian dishes like pickled vegetables, sushi rice, salad dressings, slaws, marinades, and more, you’ll find many uses for rice vinegar while on your cooking excursions.

Rice vinegar is not exclusively for Asian cuisine, add this to pickled cucumbers and enjoy it with your classic summer pulled pork sandwich.

We’ve even seen rice vinegar used in cocktails like the peach and ginger shrub.

Find sesame oil at United Noodles Minneapolis in Aisle 17.

Versatile Asian Ingredients In The Kitchen!

While trying new recipes and cooking with new ingredients can be intimidating, sesame oil, five-spice, and rice vinegar, all help you become the master of your kitchen.

It can be hard to prepare a gourmet meal but these ingredients with a depth of flavor make it easy.

So, for a more balanced kitchen while keeping cooking (and eating) fun, add these versatile ingredients. You can thank us later!