As the days go by, our schedules can get busier and busier. But that doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice flavor for convenience! With these 20 simple and flavorful Asian recipes, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time, even on the busiest weeknights. From savory stir-fries to sweet and sour sauces, we’ve got you covered with these easy-to-make dishes that will transport your taste buds to the Far East.
Whether you’re in the mood for protein-packed chicken or tofu, or crave something light and refreshing like a cucumber salad, our recipe collection has it all. With ingredients readily available at most grocery stores, you can make these mouthwatering meals without breaking the bank or sacrificing quality. So what are you waiting for? Dive into this culinary journey and discover the magic of Asian cooking!
Garlic Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken
This sweet and savory chicken dish is a perfect combination of Asian-inspired flavors. With the richness of soy sauce, the spiciness of garlic, and the warmth of ginger, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together garlic, ginger, soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
3. Place chicken breasts in a shallow baking dish and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Vegetable Stir Fry with Oyster Sauce
Quick and flavorful, this vegetable stir fry is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies on the table in no time. With the added depth of oyster sauce, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and ginger; stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Stir in oyster sauce; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quick Coconut Curry Noodles
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to whip up a flavorful and comforting bowl of noodles with the creamy richness of coconut curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Add cooked noodles to the saucepan and toss to coat with curry sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
5-Ingredient Teriyaki Salmon
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce with this easy-to-make recipe for 5-Ingredient Teriyaki Salmon. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and grated ginger.
5. Brush the teriyaki mixture evenly over the salmon fillets.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your 5-Ingredient Teriyaki Salmon!
Spicy Sesame Cucumber Salad
A refreshing summer salad that combines the crunch of sesame seeds with the cooling effect of cucumber, all tied together with a spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 2 large cucumbers, sliced into thin rounds
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add the sliced cucumbers to the bowl and toss to coat with the dressing.
3. Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the cucumber mixture and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
One-Pot Thai Basil Pork
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy-to-make one-pot dish, featuring tender pork, aromatic basil, and a tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Thai basil leaves
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup fish sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork, onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until pork is browned on all sides (5-7 minutes).
3. Add Thai basil leaves, chicken broth, fish sauce (if using), soy sauce, and brown sugar; stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low; simmer for 30-40 minutes or until pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Simple Miso Soup with Tofu
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the rich flavor of miso paste with the tender texture of tofu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, combine vegetable broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add tofu, soy sauce, ginger, and pepper to the pot. Stir gently.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sticky Honey Sriracha Shrimp
Sweet and spicy, these sticky honey sriracha shrimp are a flavorful twist on traditional seafood dishes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive date night meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha sauce, soy sauce, and vegetable oil.
2. Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the shrimp from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
15-Minute Kimchi Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a quick weeknight meal. Perfect for using up leftover rice and veggies!
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
– 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 onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1-2 eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the kimchi mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes, incorporating all the ingredients.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Steamed Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
Savor the delicate flavors of these tender steamed dumplings paired with a savory soy dipping sauce. This classic Chinese dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the dumplings:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup water
– Filling ingredients (e.g., ground pork, shredded cabbage, green onions, ginger)
For the soy dipping sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
2. Divide the dough into small portions and roll out each into a thin circle.
3. Place your desired filling in the center of each circle and fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape. Press edges together to seal.
4. Steam dumplings over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together soy dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Serve steamed dumplings with warm soy dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Chili Lime Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilled chicken game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the flavors of chili, lime, and honey.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chili sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, and chili sauce.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Tips:
– Adjust the level of heat in the chili sauce to your liking.
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or quinoa salad.
Fast Vietnamese Pho-Inspired Noodle Bowl
This recipe combines the bold flavors of Vietnam with the convenience of a one-pot meal. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying bowl that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound beef or chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups water or beef broth
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup bean sprouts
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chili flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add beef or chicken; cook until browned.
3. Pour in water or broth; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 5-7 minutes.
4. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Assemble bowls by placing noodles at the bottom, then adding beef or chicken mixture, cilantro, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Char Siu-Style Pork
Easy Char Siu-Style Pork: A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional pork, this recipe brings the sweet and spicy flavors of Hong Kong-style char siu to your kitchen without much fuss!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, five-spice powder, and rice vinegar.
2. Add the sliced pork to the marinade, making sure it’s fully coated.
3. Let the pork marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight (8 hours).
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove the pork from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and water. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the pork strips.
6. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pan-Fried Scallion Pancakes
Pan-Fried Scallion Pancakes: A Delicious Twist on Traditional Chinese Cuisine
These crispy and savory pancakes are a staple in Northern Chinese cuisine, typically served as an appetizer or side dish. With the addition of scallions, they add a punch of flavor and aroma that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green and white parts)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
5. Roll out each piece into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush with a little vegetable oil and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
7. Pan-fry the pancakes in hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
8. Drain excess oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes)
Quick Pickled Asian Slaw
This refreshing slaw is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, from noodles to stir-fries. The tangy pickling liquid adds a delightful burst of flavor to the crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed greens (cabbage, carrots, cucumber)
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens.
2. In a small saucepan, whisk together the rice vinegar, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Pour the pickling liquid over the slaw and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (plus refrigeration time)
Braised Soy Sauce Eggs
These Braised Soy Sauce Eggs take the classic deviled egg to new heights with a rich, savory twist. The combination of creamy yolks, crispy whites, and a deep soy sauce flavor is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 6 large eggs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Hard-boil the eggs, then cool.
3. Cut the eggs in half lengthwise and carefully remove the yolks.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, and water until well combined.
5. Add the yolk mixture to the egg whites, dividing evenly among the eggs.
6. Place the eggs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the whites are set and slightly golden brown.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped scallions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
3-Ingredient Peanut Satay Sauce
Elevate your grilled meats or vegetables with this 3-Ingredient Peanut Satay Sauce, a creamy and nutty condiment that’s ready in just minutes.
- Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
- 1/4 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari)
- Instructions:
- In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, and soy sauce. Blend until smooth.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve immediately over grilled meats, vegetables, or as a dip for your favorite snacks.
- Cooking Time: 2 minutes (blending time only)
Simple Lemongrass Chicken Skewers
Simple Lemongrass Chicken Skewers
Add a burst of citrusy flavor to your meal with these easy-to-make chicken skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped (about 2 tablespoons)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemongrass, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss until well coated.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemongrass leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Stir-Fried Garlic Bok Choy
A simple and flavorful stir-fry recipe that highlights the delicate flavor of bok choy, with a savory garlic twist. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite Chinese-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 4 cups)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Wash the bok choy and remove any tough stems. Slice it into 1-inch pieces.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the bok choy to the wok, followed by soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the greens are tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
No-Cook Spicy Peanut Noodles
A refreshing and spicy noodle dish that’s perfect for hot summer days or any time you want a quick and easy meal. This recipe requires no cooking, just a few simple ingredients and some assembly!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped scallions and peanuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions (no cooking required!).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes until smooth.
3. Add cooked noodles to the bowl and toss to coat with the peanut sauce.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and peanuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Summary
Discover the flavors of Asia without sacrificing speed or simplicity. From chicken dishes like Garlic Ginger Soy Glazed Chicken and Sweet Chili Lime Grilled Chicken, to noodle bowls and stir-fries, these recipes are quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Try One-Pot Thai Basil Pork, Sticky Honey Sriracha Shrimp, or Pan-Fried Scallion Pancakes for a taste of Asia in no time. With just 3-15 ingredients per recipe, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no more than 20 minutes.
