Are you looking for a culinary journey that’s both delicious and effortless? Look no further! In this article, we’re excited to share 20 mouthwatering Asian-inspired recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From quick and easy stir-fries to comforting noodle dishes, these recipes showcase the bold flavors and vibrant textures of Asian cuisine.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these simple yet flavorful dishes will inspire you to get cooking. With ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil, you’ll be transported to the bustling streets of Asia without ever leaving your own kitchen.
Let’s dive into the first batch of recipes, featuring a range of flavors from China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Vietnam, and beyond. Get ready to feast your eyes (and taste buds) on some incredible dishes that are sure to become new favorites!
Garlic Ginger Stir-Fried Bok Choy
A flavorful and healthy stir-fry recipe that combines the crispness of bok choy with the savory flavors of garlic and ginger. This quick and easy dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual stems
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the bok choy stems; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to wilt.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Quick Soy-Glazed Salmon
Get a taste of Asian-inspired flavor with this speedy salmon recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, it’s ready in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each fillet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the salmon.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Easy Chicken Teriyaki
Quickly satisfy your cravings with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the rich flavors of teriyaki sauce, chicken, and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange the marinated chicken on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
5-Ingredient Miso Soup
This classic Japanese soup is a staple of simplicity and flavor. With just five ingredients, you can create a comforting and nourishing bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1/4 cup miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/2 cup sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the dashi broth over low heat.
2. Stir in the miso paste until dissolved and smooth.
3. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil, whisking until combined.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
5. Ladle into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of 5-Ingredient Miso Soup!
Simple Vegetable Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a tasty and nutritious meal with this simple recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetable mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until well combined.
7. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
This spicy and aromatic dish combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the comfort of chicken, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in curry paste; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return chicken to pan and stir in basil leaves and fish sauce (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Coconut Curry Noodles
A flavorful and comforting meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes! This recipe combines the creaminess of coconut milk with the warmth of curry powder, all wrapped up in a delicious noodle dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and add noodles. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until noodles are cooked through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
Savor the simplicity of traditional Chinese cuisine with this effortless recipe for steamed dumplings served with a rich soy dipping sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 cup ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 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, and minced garlic. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork 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 dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Steam the dumplings over boiling water for 8-10 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve hot with soy dipping sauce (mix equal parts soy sauce and sesame oil).
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Korean Beef Bulgogi
Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with this classic beef dish, marinated in a sweet and savory mixture of soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Serve over steamed rice for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (thinly sliced), such as ribeye or sirloin
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Steamed rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic, sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Add the beef slices and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice and garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls
Experience the refreshing taste of Vietnam with these delicate spring rolls, packed with flavorful fillings and crunchy vegetables. This recipe is a great way to enjoy the flavors of this popular Vietnamese dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup cooked shrimp
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a rice paper wrapper into the water, letting it soak for about 10 seconds or until soft and pliable.
3. Remove the wrapper from the water and place on a clean surface.
4. Arrange the fillings in the center of the wrapper, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and fillings.
7. Serve the spring rolls with a dipping sauce made from equal parts soy sauce and fish sauce (if using), along with sliced cucumbers and carrots.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (excluding soaking time)
Japanese Eggplant with Miso Glaze
This sweet and savory recipe is a twist on traditional eggplant dishes, featuring a rich miso glaze that complements the tender vegetable. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium Japanese eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
3. Place eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the miso glaze evenly over both sides of the eggplant.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp
Elevate your seafood game with this sweet and savory Sticky Honey Garlic Shrimp recipe. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Pour in the honey and soy sauce mixture. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 2 minutes.
6. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet and toss to coat with the sticky honey garlic sauce.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Fast Kimchi Fried Rice
Get a flavorful meal on the table quickly with this simple kimchi fried rice recipe. This spicy and savory dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped kimchi and cook until heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs (if using) and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the kimchi mixture.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
8. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes
A classic Chinese street food, these savory pancakes are a perfect combination of crispy and chewy, with the added flavor of scallions. This simple recipe yields a delicious snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the surface with a little water, then sprinkle with chopped scallions.
7. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes per batch
Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry
Sweet Chili Tofu Stir-Fry Recipe
This sweet and savory stir-fry recipe combines crispy tofu with a tangy sweet chili sauce, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner. With only 20 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy this flavorful dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
5. Pour in sweet chili sauce and stir to combine.
6. Add cooked tofu back into the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
9. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Singapore Noodles with Shrimp
This recipe combines the flavors of Asia with the sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped up in a delicious and easy-to-make noodle dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
5. Add onion and garlic to the pan and stir-fry until onion is translucent.
6. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and ginger; stir-fry for 1 minute.
7. Add cooked noodles and shrimp to the pan; toss everything together.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these aromatic and flavorful Lemongrass Chicken Skewers. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe combines the brightness of lemongrass with the richness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemongrass, olive oil, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade; toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or as part of a larger meal.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Quick Cucumber Sesame Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the crunch of cucumbers and sesame seeds with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint leaves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cucumber slices and sesame seeds.
2. Sprinkle the chopped mint leaves over the top.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Experience the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this sweet and savory pineapple fried rice dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Thai jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice mixture for about 2 minutes, until heated through.
6. Add pineapple, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for another minute.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Homemade Ramen
Homemade ramen doesn’t have to be a complex or time-consuming process. This easy recipe yields a flavorful and comforting bowl of noodles that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Your choice of toppings (e.g. sliced pork, boiled egg, green onions, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ground ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add cooked noodles to the pot and stir well to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with your choice of ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Asia with these easy and delicious recipes. From savory stir-fries to sweet and sour dishes, this collection has something for everyone. Try garlic ginger stir-fried bok choy, soy-glazed salmon, or chicken teriyaki for a quick and tasty meal. Or explore Asian-style comfort foods like miso soup, vegetable fried rice, and coconut curry noodles. With options ranging from spicy Thai basil chicken to Japanese eggplant with miso glaze, there’s something to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these 20 simple recipes are sure to become new favorites.
