Are you craving the vibrant flavors of Asia? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll explore the best Asian recipes that will transport your taste buds to a world of culinary delight. From the aromatic spices of India to the delicate balance of flavors in Japanese cuisine, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey like no other.
Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these Asian recipes are sure to inspire and impress. So, grab your apron and let's dive into the wonderful world of Asian cooking!
1. Vegan Pad Kee Mao
Vegan Pad Kee Mao is a flavorful and satisfying Thai noodle dish that is perfect for those craving take-out. Made with homemade flat rice noodles, this dish features a delicious sauce, fragrant Thai basil, and a variety of vegetables.
It can be customized with different proteins and vegetables, making it versatile and adaptable to personal preferences. Overall, Vegan Pad Kee Mao is a quick and easy recipe that delivers on taste and is a must-try for Asian cuisine lovers.
2. Hong Kong Clay Pot Rice
Hong Kong Clay Pot Rice is a flavorful and satisfying dish that features crispy bits of rice at the bottom of the pot. Made with Chinese sausage and cured pork belly, this Cantonese rice bowl is packed with savory flavors.
The combination of soy sauces, fish sauce, and white pepper adds depth to the dish. The recipe is easy to follow and can be made in a clay pot or rice cooker. Overall, Hong Kong Clay Pot Rice is a must-try Asian recipe that will leave you craving for more.
3. Korean Chicken Bao
The Korean Chicken Bao is a delicious and flavorful Asian recipe. The bao buns are soft and fluffy, while the chicken is marinated in a tangy and spicy Korean sauce.
The crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch to each bite. Topped with sliced red onion, chopped cucumber, fresh coriander, and sesame seeds, this dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors.
4. Sweet and Spicy Noodles
These Sweet and Spicy Noodles are a Thai-inspired dish that combines the perfect balance of sweetness and spiciness. Made with simple ingredients like soy sauce, hoisin, honey, and chili garlic sauce, these noodles are quick and easy to make.
They can be paired with rice noodles or regular pasta, and you can add your choice of protein and vegetables. Topped with shredded carrots, peanuts, cilantro, green onion, and a drizzle of Sriracha, these noodles are a flavorful and satisfying meal.
5. Cantonese Shumai
Cantonese Shumai, also known as Siu Mai or Shao Mai, is a delicious Asian dumpling recipe that is sure to impress. This recipe by Lisa Lin incorporates water chestnuts for added texture and dried shiitake mushrooms for intense flavor.
Some chefs also recommend adding diced pork back fat for a juicier filling. The shumai can be steamed in a 10-inch steamer basket, with about 15 fitting at a time. Cooking two racks may require a longer cooking time for the top rack. Cantonese Shumai is a must-try dish for any Asian cuisine lover.
6. Mongolian Chicken
Mongolian Chicken is a delicious Chinese-inspired dish featuring crispy chicken strips coated in a flavorful brown sugar sauce. The combination of sweet and savory flavors in the sauce creates a delightful taste experience. This recipe is a great alternative to the popular Mongolian Beef dish, using chicken breasts instead.
It's quick and easy to make at home, allowing you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without the need to dine out. Whether you're a fan of Asian cuisine or simply looking for a tasty stir-fry option, Mongolian Chicken is a must-try recipe.
7. Japchae
Japchae is a delicious Korean noodle stir-fry dish that can be easily customized with your choice of protein and vegetables. Made with chewy sweet potato noodles, it offers a satisfying texture and a slightly sweet taste. The dish is full of flavor and can be prepared in just 30 minutes.
Japchae is a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed with steak, chicken, shrimp, or tofu. It is traditionally garnished with toasted sesame seeds and green onions. Overall, Japchae is a must-try Asian recipe that is both flavorful and easy to make.
8. Steamed Dumplings
Steamed Dumplings are a delicious Asian dish that can be enjoyed by both vegans and non-vegans alike. The dumplings are filled with a flavorful mix of tofu and garlic/Chinese chives, and can be either steamed or boiled for a smooth and satisfying texture.
The highlight of this recipe is the homemade dumpling dipping sauce, which strikes the perfect balance of savory, spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. It can also be used as a versatile sauce for noodles, fried tofu, or as a hotpot dipping sauce. Overall, Steamed Dumplings with The Best Dipping Sauce is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Asian flavors.
9. Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao) is a popular Thai street food dish that combines chicken, flat rice noodles, and a homemade pad kee mao sauce. This spicy, sweet, and savory dish stands out with the addition of Thai basil, giving it an authentic and flavorful taste.
The wide rice noodles used in this recipe provide a satisfying chewiness, while the combination of fish sauce, oyster sauce, and soy sauce adds depth to the dish. Overall, Drunken Noodles is a must-try for those craving a quick and delicious Thai stir-fry that can be easily made at home.
10. Korean Fried Chicken
The Korean Fried Chicken recipe is a must-try for any lover of crispy, flavorful chicken. The buttermilk-marinated chicken is coated in a crispy coating and deep-fried to perfection.
The star of the dish is the spicy gochujang sauce, which adds a rich and complex flavor to the chicken. This dish is best enjoyed with rice, noodles, or stuffed into bao buns. Overall, the Korean Fried Chicken is a crowd-pleaser that will leave you wanting more.
11. Korean Beef
Korean Beef is a mouth-watering and simple recipe that brings the flavors of Korean bulgogi to your dinner table. Made with ground beef and a flavorful sauce, this dish is perfect for those craving Asian flavors.
It can be enjoyed with rice or noodles, and can even be made vegan by substituting the meat with tofu or another plant-based protein. With its easy preparation and delicious taste, Korean Beef is a must-try recipe for any Asian food lover.
12. Asian Beef with Mushrooms & Snow Peas
Asian Beef with Mushrooms & Snow Peas is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of tender mushrooms, crisp snow peas, and thinly sliced beef sautéed with garlic creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
The homemade Asian sauce adds a tangy and savory flavor to the dish. This recipe is versatile as you can use different types of beef and vegetables according to your preference. Overall, Asian Beef with Mushrooms & Snow Peas is a must-try recipe for anyone looking for a quick and tasty Asian-inspired dinner.
13. Pho
Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup that is a must-try for any Asian food lover. This recipe delivers a fragrant broth, chewy rice noodles, and a variety of fresh toppings like bean sprouts, basil, and chilies.
The key to a great pho is the broth, and this recipe nails it with pre-boiled beef bones, charred ginger and onions, toasted spices, and a generous amount of fish sauce. It's a flavorful and satisfying dish that will transport you to the streets of Vietnam.
14. Sesame Chicken
Sesame Chicken is a popular Chinese-American dish that features crispy chicken coated in a sweet and sticky honey sauce. It is typically served over stir-fried noodles or steamed rice. This versatile recipe allows for ingredient swaps and additions, making it customizable to personal preferences.
The dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be enjoyed as a starter or as the main meal. The chicken is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, creating a satisfying texture. Overall, Sesame Chicken is an addictive and delicious dish that both kids and adults love.
15. Asian Chicken Noodle Soup
The Asian Chicken Noodle Soup is a flavorful and satisfying dish made with tender chicken, fresh mushrooms, and a well-seasoned broth.
It's an upgrade from the typical package of ramen noodles, with thicker noodles that add authenticity to the dish. Packed with delicious flavors, this soup is perfect for the fall season and will be a favorite for the whole family.
16. Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles
The Easy Mongolian Ground Beef Noodles recipe is a quick and delicious meal that can be made in just 15 minutes. The dish features lean ground beef cooked with ginger and garlic, combined with a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, hoisin sauce, and spices.
The noodles are then added to the beef mixture, allowing them to soak up the delicious flavors. Topped with green onions and toasted sesame seeds, this dish is a must-try for any Asian food lover.
17. Chicken Katsu
Chicken Katsu is a classic Japanese dish that features crisp, deep-fried chicken topped with tonkatsu sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is a family favorite and is sure to satisfy any craving for delicious Asian cuisine.
The chicken is coated in a crispy panko breadcrumb crust, giving it a satisfying crunch, while the tonkatsu sauce adds a savory and slightly sweet flavor. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Chicken Katsu is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the flavors of Japan.
18. Taiwanese Beef Rolls
Taiwanese Beef Rolls are a beloved Taiwanese snack made with thinly sliced, aromatic braised beef wrapped in a crispy, flaky scallion pancake. The combination of tender beef, sweet hoisin sauce, fresh scallion, and cucumber creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
This make-ahead friendly recipe is perfect for parties or quick lunches. Overall, Taiwanese Beef Rolls are a must-try Asian recipe that offers a satisfying and delicious snack experience.
19. Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers
Grilled Thai Coconut Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and juicy dish that combines the richness of coconut cream with the umami of oyster sauce and soy sauce. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delightful blend of garlic and ginger, while the coconut cream glaze adds a touch of sweetness.
These skewers are perfect for grilling and are best enjoyed with a side of quick and easy peanut sauce. Overall, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the vibrant flavors of Thai cuisine.
20. Spicy Cold Kimchi Noodles
Spicy Cold Kimchi Noodles is a delicious and addictive Korean dish that combines somen noodles, aged kimchi, and a flavorful bibim sauce. Topped with cucumber and a boiled egg, this dish is quick and easy to make.
The spiciness of the gochujang and the tanginess of the kimchi create a perfect balance of flavors. It's a refreshing and satisfying meal, especially during hot summer days.
21. Scallion Pancakes
Scallion pancakes are a delicious Asian dish made with all-purpose flour, salt, and green onions. The dough is rolled and twisted, creating layers that become crispy when pan-fried. The pancakes are golden brown and have a savory flavor with a hint of onion.
They are best served with chili oil, XO sauce, chili sauce, Thai sweet chili sauce, or hoisin sauce for dipping. Scallion pancakes are a must-try for anyone looking to explore Asian cuisine.
22. Crispy Sesame Chicken
Crispy Sesame Chicken is a delicious homemade alternative to takeout. It is sweet, salty, crispy, sticky, and a little bit spicy, making it a crowd-pleasing meal. The chicken is coated in a flavorful seasoned flour and then fried until golden brown.
It is then tossed in a sticky Asian sauce made with sesame oil, garlic, vinegar, honey, sweet chili sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, and soy sauce. The dish is served with boiled rice and garnished with sesame seeds and spring onions. Overall, Crispy Sesame Chicken is a tasty and satisfying Asian recipe.
23. Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a classic Japanese street food dish that is enjoyed by both locals and tourists alike. It is a simple pancake batter made from flour, eggs, and dashi stock, filled with cabbage and various tasty ingredients such as pork, shrimp, or corn.
This dish is typically cooked on large hot plates in specialty okonomiyaki restaurants or even at home. Each region in Japan has its own twist on the recipe, but our favorite version is the Kansai/Osaka style. Okonomiyaki is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the delicious flavors of Japanese cuisine.
24. Steamed Chicken with Black Bean Sauce
Steamed Chicken with Black Bean Sauce is an easy and aromatic dish that is perfect for summer. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and spices, then steamed to perfection.
The addition of garlic and fermented black beans adds a delicious depth of flavor. This dish is quick to make and results in tender and well-flavored chicken in just 15 minutes. Serve it with steamed rice for a satisfying meal.
25. Mixed Mushroom Cheung Fun
Mixed Mushroom Cheung Fun is a vegan twist on the classic dim sum dish. The recipe features a flavorful mix of sautéed mushrooms, seasoned with teriyaki sauce, and wrapped in a soft and silky rice noodle sheet. The combination of different mushroom varieties adds texture and depth to the filling.
This dish is typically served with a sweet soy sauce or a homemade chili oil for added flavor. Despite the time it takes to make, the effort is well worth it. Overall, Mixed Mushroom Cheung Fun is a delicious and satisfying vegetable-forward option for dim sum lovers.
26. Pepper Steak
Pepper Steak is a flavorful and satisfying Asian dish that combines juicy ribeye steak, bell peppers, and onions in a sweet and spicy sauce. The homemade version of this classic Chinese dish is even more delicious than takeout.
It can be served over rice for a filling and tasty dinner. The sauce is made from scratch, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your preference. Overall, Pepper Steak is a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of Asian cuisine at home.
27. Chinese Orange Chicken
Chinese Orange Chicken is a delicious and flavorful dish that surpasses take-out versions. Made with crispy fried chicken coated in a sweet and spicy orange sauce, this recipe is a hit with both kids and adults.
The homemade orange sauce, made with fresh orange juice, vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, and ginger, adds a tangy and zesty flavor to the dish. Topped with grated orange zest and green onions, this Chinese Orange Chicken is a must-try for anyone craving authentic Asian flavors.
28. Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and Sour Chicken is a classic Chinese dish consisting of deep-fried chicken or pork coated in a crispy batter and smothered in a tangy and sweet sauce. It is often served with pineapple chunks or bell peppers, adding a delightful burst of flavor.
This recipe offers a sticky and irresistible sauce that perfectly complements the crispy chicken. It's a go-to dish for takeout lovers, and once you try it, you'll understand why.
29. Traditional Kimchi
Traditional Kimchi is a classic Korean dish that has gained global recognition for its health benefits. Made with baechu (napa cabbage), this kimchi is fermented and packed with useful lactic acid bacteria. The taste of kimchi can vary depending on the quality and ratio of the seasoning ingredients, but it typically includes gochugaru (Korean red chili pepper flakes), garlic, ginger, and salted seafood like saeujeot and myulchiaekjeot.
This kimchi recipe is made by salting the cabbage, making a kimchi paste, and rubbing it onto the cabbage leaves. After two weeks of fermentation, the flavors fully develop, making it a delicious and nutritious addition to Korean cuisine.
30. Saucy Ramen Noodles
Saucy Ramen Noodles is an easy and versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and protein. The thick and flavorful sauce is adjustable to suit your taste preferences. The addition of homemade chili garlic sauce adds a spicy kick, but you can use any hot sauce of your choice.
The noodles are cooked until chewy and then coated in the sauce, resulting in a delicious and saucy dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and spring onions for added flavor. Enjoy this vegan ramen dish immediately while hot.
31. Chinese Noodle Soup
Chinese Noodle Soup is a quick and easy recipe that delivers authentic Asian flavors. With a simple broth and noodles, this soup can be customized with your choice of meat or vegetables. It is a healthier alternative to store-bought instant noodle soups and cooks all in one pot.
The use of fresh ingredients and Asian sauces gives it a rich and delicious taste. Whether you use ramen or egg noodles, this recipe is versatile and perfect for busy weeknights. Once you try this homemade soup, you won't go back to packaged soups again.
32. Beef Pan-Fried Noodles
Beef Pan-Fried Noodles is a delicious and satisfying Asian dish that brings the flavors of a Chinese restaurant into your own kitchen. The combination of crispy pan-fried noodles, tender beef, and a rich savory sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
The recipe allows for customization with different types of noodles and vegetables, making it versatile and adaptable. With a quick cooking time, this dish is a convenient option for a homemade meal that rivals takeout.
33. Guo Kui
Guo Kui is a delicious Asian recipe that features a crispy and flaky dough filled with mashed chickpeas and flavorful seasonings. The dough is rolled thin and filled with the chickpea mixture, then pan-fried until golden brown and baked for extra crispiness.
The combination of the crispy exterior and the savory filling creates a delightful snack or appetizer. Serve it warm with a side of chili sauce for an added kick. Guo Kui is a must-try recipe for those looking to explore Asian cuisine.
34. Chicken Mei Fun
Chicken Mei Fun is a delicious and versatile Asian rice noodle dish. Made with thin rice vermicelli noodles, tender chicken, and a variety of vegetables, it offers a satisfying and flavorful meal.
The recipe is flexible, allowing you to use whatever vegetables you have on hand. With its simple yet satisfying flavors, Chicken Mei Fun is a classic dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.