Are you ready to spice up your social gatherings and impress your guests with a delicious array of flavors? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouth-watering spicy Asian appetizer recipes that are perfect for every occasion. From Korean kimchi pancakes to Indian samosas with tamarind chutney, these dishes will take you on a culinary journey across the continent.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, a game night, or just want to add some excitement to your everyday meals, these spicy Asian appetizers are sure to please even the most discerning palates. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and get cooking!
Korean Kimchi Pancakes
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of Korea with these crispy and savory kimchi pancakes, a popular street food in Seoul.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup kimchi (spicy Korean fermented cabbage), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
2. Add the chopped kimchi and mix well to combine.
3. Gradually add the water and stir until a thick batter forms.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
5. Using a ladle, scoop about 1 tablespoon of the batter into the pan and flatten slightly.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bubbles appear on the surface and edges start to curl.
7. Flip and cook for another minute.
8. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of pancakes)
Enjoy your delicious Korean kimchi pancakes!
Thai Shrimp Spring Rolls
Experience the flavors of Thailand with these crispy and delicious shrimp spring rolls. A perfect appetizer or snack, they’re easy to make and packed with succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and savory sauces.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup grated zucchini
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, cilantro, carrot, and zucchini.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Brush the edges of the wrapper with sesame oil.
4. Roll up the wrapper tightly but gently to form a neat cylinder.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and wrappers.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These spring rolls are best served fresh and crispy.
Vietnamese Fresh Summer Rolls
These refreshing summer rolls are a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, perfect for hot days when you need something light and revitalizing.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup cooked and cooled shrimp
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup shredded carrot
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10-15 seconds, until it becomes soft and pliable.
3. Remove the wrapper from the water and place it on a clean surface.
4. Arrange the shrimp, cucumber, cilantro, carrot, and bell pepper in the center of the wrapper.
5. Drizzle with fish sauce and lime juice to taste.
6. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a compact cylinder.
7. Repeat with remaining wrappers and ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! These rolls are best served immediately after assembling.
Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Gyoza dumplings are a popular Japanese dish that combines the savory flavors of pork and vegetables with the convenience of a pan-fry. This recipe yields a crispy bottom and a tender, flavorful filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a tablespoon of the filling in the center.
3. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a triangle. Press edges together to seal.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add dumplings and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes
These savory pancakes are a staple in Northern Chinese cuisine, made with scallions, flour, and water. They’re perfect as an appetizer or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, scallions, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indonesian Satay Skewers
Experience the authentic flavors of Indonesia with these mouth-watering satay skewers, a classic street food popular in Jakarta and beyond.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, peanut butter, garlic, soy sauce, ginger, cumin, coriander powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush the chicken with the peanut-coconut mixture.
4. Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Malaysian Curry Puffs
These flaky, savory pastries are a staple in Malaysian cuisine. With a delicate balance of spices and tender curry filling, they’re sure to become a favorite snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Curry filling ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup curry paste
+ 1/4 cup coconut milk
+ 1/4 cup chopped onion
+ 1/4 cup chopped potato
+ Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and warm water. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes, then cover with plastic wrap and rest for 30 minutes.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a small egg.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, then place a tablespoon or two of curry filling in the center.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle or square shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Fry puffs until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Filipino Lumpia
Lumpia, also known as Filipino spring rolls, are a staple snack or appetizer in many Filipino households. This recipe yields crispy and delicious lumpia filled with a mix of vegetables and sometimes meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken or pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the vegetables, meat, garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the lumpia to form a compact cylinder.
5. Fry the lumpia in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singaporean Chili Crab Bites
Experience the flavors of Singapore with these bite-sized morsels, featuring succulent crab meat infused with a spicy and savory chili crab sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/4 cup chili crab sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 20-25 wonton wrappers
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine crab meat, chili crab sauce, mayonnaise, scallions, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the crab mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the bite.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook crab bites in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Indian Samosas with Tamarind Chutney
Samosas are a classic Indian snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. This recipe combines the flaky, crispy pastry with a flavorful filling and serves it with a tangy tamarind chutney for an added burst of flavor.
Ingredients:
For the samosas:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Water, as needed
For the filling:
– 1 cup cooked potatoes, diced
– 1 cup peas
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
For the tamarind chutney:
– 1 cup tamarind paste
– 1/2 cup date syrup
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Make the samosa dough by combining flour, salt, and baking powder. Add ghee or oil and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
2. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each portion into a thin circle.
4. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each circle, fold and press edges together to seal.
5. Fry samosas until golden brown (3-4 minutes per side).
6. Make the tamarind chutney by mixing all ingredients with water, if needed, to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Bangladeshi Jhal Muri
This recipe brings you a flavorful and spicy Bangladeshi snack that’s easy to make and fun to eat. Jhal Muri is a popular street food in Dhaka, made with puffed rice, spices, and a hint of sourness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups puffed rice (muri)
– 1/4 cup mustard oil or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic, cumin powder, coriander powder, and red chili powder. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add puffed rice and stir-fry until well coated with the spice mixture.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss to combine.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions if desired.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets
Sri Lankan Fish Cutlets Recipe
A popular street food in Sri Lanka, fish cutlets are a delightful snack or meal that combines the flavors of fish, onions, and spices. This recipe yields crispy, golden-brown cutlets with a tender interior.
Ingredients:
– 500g fish fillet (any white fish works), cut into small pieces
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– All-purpose flour, for dusting
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine fish pieces, onion, garlic, ginger, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add lemon juice and egg; mix until the mixture is cohesive but not too wet.
4. Dust your hands with flour and shape the mixture into small patties (about 1/4 cup each).
5. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon; drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Nepalese Momo with Spicy Sauce
Experience the authentic flavors of Nepal with this simple recipe that combines tender momos (Tibetan dumplings) with a bold and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Momos:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Filling ingredients: 1/2 cup ground meat (beef or chicken), 1 onion, finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Spicy Sauce:
– 1/2 cup sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Mix flour, salt, and baking powder in a bowl. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
3. Prepare the filling by mixing ground meat, onion, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
4. Roll out the dough into small balls and flatten slightly.
5. Place 1-2 teaspoons of filling in each momo and fold the edges to seal.
6. Steam the momos for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. In a separate pan, combine sriracha sauce, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
8. Serve the steamed momos with the spicy sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cambodian Nom Krok Coconut Pancakes
These crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside pancakes are a beloved street food in Cambodia. Served with a sweet coconut sauce and fresh fruit, Nom Krok is a delightful treat that’s easy to make at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 large egg
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Coconut sauce and fresh fruit for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, mix coconut milk and egg.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until smooth.
4. Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the oil and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Drain pancakes on paper towels and serve warm with coconut sauce and fresh fruit, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the pancakes.
Laos Larb Lettuce Wraps
This recipe brings a taste of Laos to your table with a fresh and spicy wrap filled with grilled chicken, crispy herbs, and tangy larb sauce. A perfect combination for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup crispy fried herbs (such as mint, cilantro, or basil)
– 1/4 cup Larb sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken breast until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Chop grilled chicken into small pieces.
3. In a large bowl, combine chopped chicken, Larb sauce, fish sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Divide the mixture among the lettuce leaves, spooning it onto the center of each leaf.
5. Top with crispy fried herbs and fold the lettuce to form a wrap.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Burmese Tea Leaf Salad
This iconic Burmese salad is a staple at every social gathering and celebration. Laphet, as it’s locally known, is a unique blend of fermented tea leaves, crunchy fried peanuts, tangy lime juice, and savory fried garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fermented tea leaves (Laphet)
– 1/2 cup roasted peanuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the fermented tea leaves with cold water to remove any impurities.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until golden brown.
3. Add the roasted peanuts to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine the tea leaves, peanut-garlic mixture, and lime juice. Mix well to combine.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken
Get ready to savor the crispy, juicy flavors of Taiwanese street food with this easy-to-make popcorn chicken recipe!
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup potato starch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together cornstarch, potato starch, salt, black pepper, sugar, and garlic.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated.
3. Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten egg, then roll in the cornstarch mixture to coat.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
5. Remove the chicken from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
6. Serve hot with soy sauce and rice vinegar drizzled on top, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hong Kong Egg Tarts
Experience the classic Cantonese dessert that has gained worldwide popularity! These flaky pastry cups filled with creamy egg custard are a staple at bakeries and cafes in Hong Kong.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into small squares, about 3 inches per side.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Season with salt to taste.
4. Place a spoonful of egg mixture onto the center of each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry squares into triangles, pressing the edges to seal. Brush tops with a little water and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Allow tarts to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering and spicy Asian appetizer recipes! From Korean kimchi pancakes to Indian samosas, and from Thai shrimp spring rolls to Cambodian nom krok coconut pancakes, this collection has something for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to spice up your snack game, these recipes are sure to impress. With a variety of flavors and textures, you’ll find the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get cooking, and experience the bold flavors of Asia!
