And So We Begin...

A brief introduction. The entire purpose behind this blog is to share some of the awesomeness we have experienced in Edmonton in the hopes that someone else reading this will want to experience that awesomeness, too. Each week we will explore something dear to our hearts that we think you should try. Sometimes this will be a place, sometimes this will be an event, most times this will be food.

First up: E-ZEE Mart, 8611 109 St. NW, Edmononton, (780) 439-7176. This is a beautiful little asian grocery and spice mart that is just around the corner from us. What makes it so awesome? In no particular order:

1. You can find any ingredient you need for Indian cooking

Seriously, ANY ingredient (but don't hold us to that, we're not experts). It can be hard to find certain spice mixes at the big grocery stores, but here they are commonplace. Some examples: lime leaves, sumac, amazing curry and vindaloo pastes. Our knowledge is not that profound so we won't go on. Sufficient to say, if you want it, it's probably there.

2. You can get wonderful homemade takeout

As far as we're concerned, this is the last of the good deals. All the food is made in the store in slow cookers in the back. The list of meals is small (about 7 items) but when they're this good it doesn't need to be any bigger. Our favourite is the Chicken Vindaloo - aMAZing. It's only about $8 and enough for two seriously hungry people. Just make sure you pair it with their fantastic naan bread, which is the hottest deal at $2.75 for three large, tender pieces. Many times the naan is still warm! This is a serious dinner in a pinch, people.

3. Jars of spectacular homemade condiments

They have kimchi, chutney (several kinds) and our very favourite archar - a sweet, spicy blend of pickled vegetables. The condiments are a little more expensive ($10-20) but the jars are huge and last forever. Plus, once you taste them you will regret nothing.

4. The fabulous owners

The couple that runs the store is a husband and wife from Malaysia (we asked them once but can't remember 100%) and are the kindest people ever. They always give our two boys candy and are always willing to answer any questions we have about the various products.

Well, we hope those 4 things make E-ZEE Mart worth a visit. We're lifers, for sure. Tune in next week for a new and exciting store near you (or us).