When it comes to international cuisine, few regions compare to Asia’s incredible diversity and richness. From the spicy flavors of Thai street food to the delicate nuances of Japanese sushi, each country has its own unique culinary traditions that are waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey across 20 authentic Asian recipes, each one showcasing the bold flavors and vibrant ingredients that make this cuisine so beloved around the world.
From comforting noodle dishes to sizzling stir-fries, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the bustling markets and family tables of Asia. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with our selection of mouth-watering, easy-to-make, and truly authentic Asian recipes.
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Thailand with a spicy kick from red pepper flakes and fresh basil. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this dish is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add chicken; cook until browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
4. Add bell peppers; stir-fry until tender (2-3 minutes).
5. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and Thai basil.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Miso Ramen
Experience the rich flavors of Japan with this hearty bowl of miso ramen, packed with springy noodles, savory broth, and a variety of toppings. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 4 cups of chicken or pork bone broth
– 2 tablespoons of white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup of bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup of sliced pork or chicken (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, combine broth, miso paste, soy sauce, sugar, and garlic. Whisk until the miso is fully dissolved.
3. Bring the broth to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
4. Add cooked noodles, green onions, bean sprouts, and pork or chicken (if using) to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Korean Bibimbap
Bibimbap, a signature Korean dish, is a harmonious blend of vegetables, meat, and rice. This recipe brings together the classic flavors of Korea’s national cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup bean sprouts
– 1/2 cup shredded zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced carrots
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/4 cup diced beef (or chicken), seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, cook the beef (or chicken) until browned, then set aside.
3. In another pan, heat Gochujang, soy sauce, and rice vinegar over medium heat.
4. Add bean sprouts, zucchini, carrots, and mushrooms. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Place a scoop of cooked rice in a bowl, followed by the vegetable mixture.
6. Top with cooked beef (or chicken) and drizzle with the Gochujang sauce.
7. Make a well in the center of the rice and add the beaten egg.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Kung Pao Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Sichuan Province with this iconic Chinese dish, featuring crispy chicken, peanuts, and chili peppers in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add chicken, garlic, and ginger; cook until chicken is browned and cooked through (5-6 minutes).
3. Add peanuts, scallions, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using); stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, wine, and cornstarch; add to wok or skillet.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until sauce thickens.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Pho
Pho, Vietnam’s national dish, is a flavorful and comforting noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, herbs, and various toppings. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Pho to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (or 2 pounds beef chuck, sliced)
– 4 cups beef or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 inch ginger, sliced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro)
– Lime wedges
– Bean sprouts
– Chili sauce
– Pickled ginger slices
Instructions:
1. Simmer beef bones or sliced beef in broth with fish sauce, soy sauce, onion, garlic, and ginger for 1-2 hours.
2. Add cinnamon and cardamom; simmer for another 30 minutes.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
4. Assemble Pho by placing noodles in a bowl, then adding hot broth, herbs, and desired toppings.
5. Serve with lime wedges, chili sauce, bean sprouts, and pickled ginger slices.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (including simmer time)
Indonesian Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng, a staple dish in Indonesia, is a flavorful and filling meal made with fried rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked chicken or shrimp, diced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or shrimp (if using); stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack in beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with vegetables and protein.
6. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry until well combined and heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Laksa
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of Malaysia with a hearty and comforting bowl of noodles. Inspired by the popular street food, this homemade version is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 pound boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 teaspoons laksa paste (available at Asian grocery stores)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or pot over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned.
4. Pour in coconut milk, broth, and laksa paste; stir well.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve noodles in bowls and ladle the curry sauce over top. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Filipino Chicken Adobo
A classic Filipino dish, Chicken Adobo is a savory and flavorful stew made with chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves. This recipe is a simple and delicious take on this beloved dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add garlic, bay leaf, vinegar, soy sauce, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Thai Green Curry
This flavorful and aromatic Thai dish is a staple of Southeast Asian cuisine, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. With its creamy coconut milk and spicy green curry paste, this recipe will transport your taste buds to the streets of Bangkok.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, bamboo shoots)
– 1/2 cup Thai green curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon palm sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and add fish sauce, palm sugar, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve over rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Teriyaki Salmon
A classic Japanese dish that combines sweet and savory flavors with tender salmon fillets. This simple recipe yields a deliciously glazed salmon with a sticky teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sake or dry white wine
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tbsp mirin (sweet Japanese cooking sake)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake or white wine, sugar, and mirin. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the prepared sheet.
4. Brush teriyaki sauce evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Drizzle vegetable oil over the salmon and sprinkle minced garlic.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic fried rice, this Korean-inspired recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with savory cooked rice and a hint of sesame. Perfect as a side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil; stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. If using egg, push the rice mixture to one side, crack in the egg, and scramble until cooked through. Mix with the rice.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Mapo Tofu
Mapo tofu is a classic Sichuan dish that combines the creaminess of silken tofu with the bold flavors of chili peppers, garlic, and fermented soybeans. This recipe captures the essence of this spicy and savory Chinese staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup fermented soybeans (doubanjiang)
– 1/4 cup Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1-2 teaspoons chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Add tofu and cook until lightly browned on all sides.
4. Add soybeans, Sichuan peppercorns, and chili bean paste; stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious and spicy Mapo Tofu!
Vietnamese Banh Mi
This classic Vietnamese sandwich is a flavorful combination of crispy baguette, savory meats, and fresh vegetables. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large baguette
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 pound grilled pork, sliced (or substitute with chicken or tofu)
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon radish
– 1/4 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the pork for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and toast.
3. Spread mayonnaise on each half of the baguette.
4. Add sliced pork, pickled carrots and daikon radish, cucumber slices, and cilantro leaves.
5. Drizzle soy sauce over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singaporean Chili Crab
Get ready to sink your teeth into a flavorful and spicy seafood delight! This classic Singaporean dish is a must-try for anyone who loves crab and bold flavors. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a mouthwatering chili crab that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole Dungeness crab (about 2 lbs), cleaned and cut into quarters
– 1/2 cup tomato ketchup
– 1/4 cup chili sauce
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add crab pieces; cook until they turn bright red, about 2 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, mix ketchup and chili sauce.
5. Pour the sauce mixture into the wok or skillet; stir to coat crab evenly.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until crab is fully coated and cooked through.
7. Season with salt and sugar to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Indian Butter Chicken
A classic Indian dish that combines the richness of butter and cream with the bold flavors of spices and tender chicken. This recipe is a simplified version of the popular Butter Chicken, also known as Murgh Makhani.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Marinate chicken in yogurt, cumin, coriander, garam masala, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook onions and garlic until caramelized, then add butter and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add oil, cumin powder, and coriander powder; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned on all sides.
5. Stir in coconut milk and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using) and serve hot over basmati rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Tom Yum Soup
Tom Yum soup is a classic Thai dish that combines the flavors of lemongrass, lime leaves, and chilies with juicy shrimp. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 kaffir lime leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4-6 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups fish sauce (Nam Pla)
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon palm sugar
– Salt, to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, lemongrass, lime leaves, ginger, cumin, coriander powder, and oil. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through.
5. Stir in fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, and salt.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Japanese Okonomiyaki
Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake originating from Hiroshima, Japan. This recipe combines the flavors of seafood, pork, and vegetables with a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup sliced cabbage
– 1/2 cup diced pork belly or bacon
– 1/4 cup diced seafood (shrimp, scallops, or octopus)
– 2 tablespoons Okonomiyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– Sesame seeds and bonito flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, water, salt, and sugar.
2. Add sliced cabbage, diced pork belly or bacon, and seafood to the batter mixture.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or Okonomiyaki griddle over medium heat.
5. Pour the batter mixture into the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden.
6. Brush with Okonomiyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sake (if using).
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and bonito flakes.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made from stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables, often served as a side or light meal. This recipe combines the classic flavors of soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil with crunchy vegetables for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (dangmyeon)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent (2-3 minutes).
4. Add the mushrooms and spinach; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.
6. Pour the sauce over the vegetable mixture and stir-fry for 1 minute to combine.
7. Add the cooked glass noodles; stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Char Siu Pork
Char Siu, also known as Cantonese-style BBQ pork, is a popular dish originating from southern China. This sweet and savory recipe is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ginger, grated
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, five-spice powder, and sesame oil.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the pork from the marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls
Fresh spring rolls are a popular Vietnamese snack or appetizer, made with rice paper wrappers and filled with crunchy vegetables, tender shrimp, and savory herbs. This recipe is quick, easy, and deliciously refreshing.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup sliced bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water and place a rice paper wrapper in it for about 10-15 seconds to soften.
2. Remove the wrapper and place it on a clean surface. Arrange shrimp, carrots, bean sprouts, and cilantro along the center of the wrapper, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrapper to form a tight cylinder.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling ingredients.
5. Serve immediately with soy sauce and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: None! These spring rolls are best served fresh.
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 20 mouth-watering Asian recipes that are deliciously authentic! From spicy Thai basil chicken to Japanese miso ramen, Korean bibimbap, and Chinese kung pao chicken, this collection has it all. Explore the flavors of Vietnam with pho, Indonesia with nasi goreng, Malaysia with laksa, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, these recipes will transport your taste buds to the streets of Asia without leaving your kitchen. Prepare to drool!