Get ready to take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure around Asia with these 20 mouthwatering recipes that blend the bold flavors and techniques of this vast and diverse continent. From spicy Korean BBQ tacos with kimchi slaw to Japanese okonomiyaki pizza with Kewpie drizzle, we’ve gathered the most creative and crave-worthy fusion dishes that will elevate your cooking game.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to try new ingredients and techniques. With everything from Thai green curry ramen to Chinese mapo tofu nachos, there’s something for everyone in this exciting collection of Asian-fusion delights.
Spicy Korean BBQ Tacos with Kimchi Slaw
A fusion twist on traditional tacos, these Spicy Korean BBQ Tacos combine the bold flavors of Korean BBQ with the crunch and spice of kimchi slaw. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or skirt steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Kimchi Slaw (see below)
Kimchi Slaw:
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and garlic. Add sliced beef and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove beef from marinade and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled beef into thin strips and placing onto tortillas. Top with kimchi slaw and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
Thai Green Curry Ramen with Crispy Tofu
Experience the perfect fusion of Thai flavors and Japanese comfort food in this unique and delicious recipe. A rich and creamy green curry broth pairs perfectly with chewy ramen noodles, crispy tofu, and fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and mushrooms)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
3. In the same pot, add curry paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in broth, coconut milk, and sliced onion. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked noodles, garlic, and mixed vegetables. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and crispy tofu.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Banh Mi Burger with Sriracha Mayo
Discover the harmonious fusion of Eastern flavors and Western comfort food in this unique burger recipe, featuring crispy banh mi-style patty, savory beef, and spicy sriracha mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 4 hamburger buns (preferably baguette-style)
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon radish
– 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
– Sriracha mayo (see below)
Sriracha Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine ground beef, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and ginger. Form into 4 patties.
3. Grill burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast buns with melted butter.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading sriracha mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a beef patty, pickled carrots and daikon radish, cucumber slices, and finally, the top bun.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Japanese Okonomiyaki Pizza with Kewpie Drizzle
Discover the fusion of Japanese flavors and Italian-style pizza with this unique recipe, featuring crispy crust topped with savory okonomiyaki sauce, juicy pork belly, crunchy cabbage, and a drizzle of creamy Kewpie mayonnaise.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup okonomiyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 oz pork belly, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 2 tbsp Kewpie mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. Top with okonomiyaki sauce, pork belly, cabbage, and green onions.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
5. Drizzle Kewpie mayonnaise over the top.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Mapo Tofu Nachos with Scallions
Elevate your nacho game with this unique fusion of flavors, combining the bold spices of Sichuan cuisine with the comfort of a classic nacho dish. This recipe brings together tender tofu, crunchy tortilla chips, and savory scallions for a thrilling taste adventure.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 8-10 corn tortilla chips
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add tofu, Sichuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes or until the mixture is caramelized and slightly crispy.
4. Arrange tortilla chips on a baking sheet. Top with the Mapo Tofu mixture and sprinkle cheese.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Laksa Mac and Cheese
Experience the bold flavors of Malaysian cuisine with this creamy macaroni and cheese dish, infused with the aromatic spices of laksa. This unique fusion will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup laksa spice blend (available at Asian markets)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Add laksa spice blend and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese and chopped cilantro.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Korean Fried Chicken Bao Buns
Experience the bold flavors of Korea and the convenience of a bao bun with this recipe for crispy fried chicken, wrapped in soft, fluffy dough.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– Korean-style fried chicken seasoning (gochugaru, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, paprika)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then rest for 30 minutes.
3. Cut the dough into 4-6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Fry chicken pieces in hot oil until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. Assemble bao buns by placing fried chicken on a dough disk, then garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Thai Peanut Butter Sushi Rolls
A creative twist on traditional sushi, these Thai-inspired rolls combine the richness of peanut butter with the crunch of peanuts and the sweetness of mango.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice (short-grain)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed (dried)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and chopped peanuts until well combined.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place 1-2 tablespoons of the peanut butter mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Add diced mango on top of the peanut butter mixture.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation) + 30 seconds per roll (assembly)
Filipino Adobo Pulled Pork Tacos
Combine the rich flavors of Filipino adobo with the comfort of pulled pork and the excitement of a taco. This unique recipe is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup Filipino-style adobo sauce (pepper, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes
– Chopped cilantro
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine pork shoulder, adobo sauce, brown sugar, and cumin.
3. Cover and bake for 2-3 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the pork with two forks and stir in any remaining sauce.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by spooning pulled pork onto tortillas, topping with radishes, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Indonesian Satay Chicken Tacos with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your taco game with the bold flavors of Indonesia! This unique fusion recipe combines the classic street food of satay chicken with the vibrant flavors of a peanut sauce, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8-10 taco shells
– Peanut Sauce (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced bell peppers, sliced avocado, pickled carrots
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together peanut oil, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and lime juice.
3. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill chicken until cooked through.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled chicken in the shell, topping with cilantro, and serving with peanut sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Miso Carbonara Pasta
This unique twist on classic carbonara adds the rich flavors of Japanese miso to create a creamy, savory, and umami-packed pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, miso paste, and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Add butter to the bowl and whisk until melted.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Pho-Inspired Beef Stew
This hearty stew is a twist on the popular Vietnamese dish, featuring tender beef and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and coriander; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes, broth, water, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Korean Bulgogi Cheesesteak Sandwich
This fusion sandwich combines the savory flavors of Korean bulgogi beef with the creamy richness of melted cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy baguette.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin), marinated in Korean-style soy sauce mixture (see below)
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped (optional)
– Lettuce and tomato, for serving
Korean-Style Soy Sauce Mixture:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Butter the hoagie rolls and toast them lightly.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by placing the grilled beef on the rolls, followed by shredded cheese, kimchi (if using), and lettuce and tomato.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Char Siu BBQ Cauliflower Wings
Get ready to experience the sweet and savory fusion of traditional Chinese Char Siu (BBQ) flavors with cauliflower “wings” that will delight your taste buds. This plant-based twist on a classic snack is easy to make and perfect for game days, parties, or just a healthy indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 1/4 cup Char Siu BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and break it into florets.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together Char Siu BBQ sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cauliflower florets to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated cauliflower in a single layer.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Margherita Pizza with Chili Oil
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand on a classic margherita pizza. This unique twist combines the freshness of Thai basil, the creaminess of mozzarella, and the spiciness of chili oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped Thai basil leaves
– 1 tsp chili oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to your desired thickness.
3. Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese.
5. Sprinkle chopped Thai basil leaves over the cheese.
6. Drizzle chili oil over the pizza in a zigzag pattern.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Singaporean Chili Crab Dip with Toast Points
Experience the flavors of Singapore with this spicy and savory dip! This recipe combines succulent crab meat, tangy chili sauce, and creamy mayonnaise to create a mouthwatering treat perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup chili sauce (such as sambal oelek)
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 baguette, cut into toast points
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, chili sauce, mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Just before serving, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
4. Place toast points on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted.
5. Serve the dip with toasted points and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Japanese Curry Dumplings with Gyoza Wrappers
A delicious twist on traditional gyoza, these Japanese curry dumplings combine the savory flavors of curry and pork with crispy pan-fried wrappers. Perfect as an appetizer or main course!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gyoza wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup Japanese curry paste
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, chopped onion, garlic, curry paste, and water. Mix well until just combined.
2. Lay a gyoza wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Heat about 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the dumplings until they are golden brown on the bottom, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Flip the dumplings and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: About 6-8 minutes total
Korean Kimchi Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Spice up your grilled cheese game with the bold flavors of Korean kimchi! This sandwich combines the creamy richness of melted cheese with the pungent, sour kick of fermented kimchi.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1/4 cup of kimchi (store-bought or homemade), drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, divided
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, butter-side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with a layer of kimchi, followed by half of the cheese.
5. Place the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Vietnamese Lemongrass Coconut Risotto
This creamy rice dish combines the brightness of lemongrass with the richness of coconut milk, perfect for a flavorful and aromatic meal. This recipe is an innovative twist on traditional risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add lemongrass and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
2. Add garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
4. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20 minutes of cooking, stir in coconut milk and fish sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Five-Spice Chocolate Chip Cookies
Discover the unique fusion of East meets West with these aromatic cookies that combine the warmth of Chinese five-spice powder with the richness of dark chocolate. Perfect for a twist on traditional treats!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp Chinese five-spice powder
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Stir in five-spice powder and chocolate chips.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering Asian fusion recipes! From Spicy Korean BBQ Tacos with Kimchi Slaw to Japanese Curry Dumplings with Gyoza Wrappers, and from Thai Peanut Butter Sushi Rolls to Vietnamese Lemongrass Coconut Risotto, this collection of innovative dishes will take you on a culinary journey across Asia. With a mix of sweet and savory flavors, bold spices, and creative twists, these recipes are perfect for adventurous cooks looking to add some excitement to their cooking routine.
