Desi Grocery Shopping in America: Where to Find Every Pakistani Ingredient

One of the most common questions from viewers: “Where do I find [Pakistani ingredient] in America?” Here is my complete guide.

Find Your Local Pakistani/Indian Grocery Store

Every city with a South Asian population has at least one desi grocery store. Search “[your city] Pakistani grocery” on Google. These stores carry everything for authentic Pakistani cooking: freshly ground masalas, various dals, atta for roti, fresh desi vegetables like methi and karela, frozen parathas, desi ghee, and fresh halal meat.

Regular American Grocery Stores

• Whole spices — cumin, coriander, cardamom — available at Walmart and Whole Foods
• Lentils — good selection at health food stores
• Basmati rice — Costco has Royal Basmati in bulk, excellent quality

Amazon for Pakistani Brands

Amazon ships Shan masalas, Tapal tea, and many Pakistani brands directly to your door. Subscribe and Save for regular chai and spice deliveries. This changed my life.

Costco Pakistani Hacks

• Royal Basmati rice 25lb bag — best price in America
• Kirkland whole cumin — excellent quality
• Large onion bags — we go through onions fast
• Greek yogurt in bulk — great for marinades

Building your desi pantry in America takes a few months to figure out. Once you know where everything is, you will never feel like you cannot cook Pakistani food at home. ☕