Specialty ingredients without bulk commitment - is it possible?

Specialty Ingredients Sourcing
1

Running a Korean-Mexican fusion spot. Need ingredients like:

  • Gochujang
  • Kimchi
  • Specialty dried chilies
  • Korean pear
  • Perilla leaves

Every Korean supplier wants huge minimums because they’re used to serving Korean restaurants that use these daily. I use them for ACCENTS.

Sysco’s “asian section” is laughable. Their gochujang tastes like ketchup with chili powder.

Anyone found sources for authentic Asian ingredients in small quantities? Willing to pay more per unit for the flexibility.

2

boxncase specialty section! they have legit korean imports. ordered gochujang from a real korean brand, 1 tub not a case. check it

3

also try local korean markets and build relationships. many will sell to restaurants in reasonable quantities if you’re a regular