10 things I always buy at H Mart (that most people walk right past)

Most people walk right past some of the most nutrient-dense foods in H Mart.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed walking through an Asian grocery store... this one’s for you ♡

*Use code MUMWITHABUN for premium/high quality versions - saves $10 on orders over $59.

Organic Nori

I always look for organic nori with no seed oils (available on amazon if not available at your HMart) or added seasonings.

Sea veggies like this one are naturally rich in minerals that support thyroid health, metabolism, and a healthy gut. It's one of the easiest nutrient boosts to keep in our pantry.

*Premium version (used by Michelin star restaurants in Korea): Gamtae sheets

King Oyster Mushrooms

Not all mushrooms are created equal. King oysters are heartier (more protein) and packed with more fiber and antioxidants that support your body's natural defenses - one of my favorite additions to stir-fries (: Or just fry it up with a pinch of salt.. yum…

*Premium dried version: Dried King Oyster Mushroom

Directions: soak them in water for 5–10 minutes to rehydrate—then stir-fry, simmer in stews/soup

Small Anchovies Jiri For Stir-fry (볶음용 - bokkeum-yong)

Anchovy = 멸치 (pronounced myeol-chi)

These little fish are nutritional powerhouses. They're naturally high in protein and calcium, especially when you eat the bones. We make a sweet and savory stir-fry my kids actually ask for. Look for wild caught.

👉 Try my Stir-Fried Anchovy Bokkeum Korean Side Dish recipe.

*Premium version: Small Anchovy Jiri

Burdock Root

I've loved burdock root since I was little. It's a classic Korean side dish that's rich in fiber and traditionally enjoyed to support digestion and the body's natural detoxification pathways.

It’s my favorite part of kimbap.
(My Kimbap Recipe here)

Look for pieces that are firm and crunchy—not dry or hollow.
(Easy Burdock Root Stir-Fry Recipe coming soon - follow @mumwithabun_nutrition for the recipe drop)

Seaweed for Seaweed Soup

I talk so much about the benefits of this one! All postpartum moms need to have a bowl of this in soup form every day in my humble opinion it supports healthy thyroid function is so helpful in overall recovery and gut health which is critical, especially postpartum, but it helps every human because it’s so high in vitamins and minerals and is easy to digest.
👉Try My Seaweed Soup Recipe

*Premium version: Miyeok SeaMustard

Medium Anchovies Goba For Broth (국물용 - gukmul-yong)

These are my favorite for building rich, savory soup broths.
👉Try My Broth Recipe.

Whenever possible, choose wild-caught fish for the best quality. These provide omega-3 fats that support heart and brain health. Again, look for wild caught (:

*Premium Version: Medium Anchovies Goba

Organic Mung Beans

Mung beans are gentle on digestion and packed with fiber and plant protein. We use them in my coconut mung bean stew, and my kids love it.

👉 Try My Coconut MungBean Stew Recipe.

Lotus Root

One of my favorite Korean vegetables. It's crisp, slightly sweet, and deliciouuus in side dishes. Fresh is always my first choice because packaged versions often contain preservatives I'd rather avoid.

Note: please avoid packaged ones that contain preservatives/additives as they can negatively impact gut health

(Recipe coming when Lotus Root is back in season - follow @mumwithabun_nutrition for the recipe drop)

*Premium Version: Dried Korean Lotus Root

“Directions: soak in lukewarm water for 30 minutes or more and the slices will return to their original shape and texture. Use them in braised lotus root, lotus root rice, pancakes, pickles, salads — or simply steep them as a soothing lotus root tea.” - Kim C Market

Bitter Melon

Yes...it's a bit bitter. 😅
But it's also incredibly nutrient-dense. Research suggests bitter melon may help support healthy blood sugar, and it's full of fiber plus vitamins A and C.

(Recipe coming soon - follow @mumwithabun_nutrition for the recipe drop. Will teach you how to make it less bitter!)

Tamarind

Omg. Nature's candy. Sweet, tangy, and one of my favorite snacks. It's traditionally enjoyed in many cultures for digestive support and is simply a fun way to add more whole foods to your day.

People/we love it for its ability to remove parasite/heavy metals/fluoride from the body. Win Win!