55 Flavorful Asian Food Recipes You Have To Try Now

It’s time to switch up your weekly meals with these Asian food recipes that challenge, improve and enhance your cooking skills.

Being a home chef doesn’t mean sticking to the same old bland meals. These recipes are family-friendly and easy to whip up, so no excuses! 

Honestly, I never thought I’d be capable of such culinary feats. Each recipe is tasty and accessible, shaking off my fear of cooking outside my comfort zone. 

Since Asia is a large continent, you’ll find meals from Thailand, India, China, Japan and the Himalayas! Excited yet? Pick a recipe and try it out! 

Asian Food Recipes: Quick Table

Recipes	Calories Per Serving	Preparation Time
Singapore’s Chili Crab	315	30 Min
Japanese Tempura	106	30 Min
Thai Papaya Salad	201	20 Min
Korean Kimchi	941	30 Min
Indonesian Satay	66	35 Min
Singapore Roti Prata	392	50 Min
Korean Tteokbokki	330	15 Min
Pad Thai Noodles	375	30 Min
Saag Paneer	N/A	35 Min
Mapo Tofu	335	35 Min
Korean Fried Chicken	814	1 Hr 15 Min
Shoyu Ramen	340	6 Hrs 30 Min
Miso Soup	40	30 Min
Samosas	140	50 Min
Sweet and Sour Chicken	528	50 Min
Tang Yuan Rice Balls	N/A	50 Min
Laab Gai	181	27 Min
Bibimbap	689	1 Hr 10 Min
Naan	295	1 Hr 30 Min
Pakistani Parathas	126	1 Hr 30 Min
Egg Drop Soup	28	15 Min
Gyoza (Sticky Dumplings)	208	1 Hr 15 Min
Aloo Gobi	188	30 Min
Momo Ghar	21	30 Min
Sticky Orange Chicken	660	20 Min
Wonton Soup	502	25 Min
Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)	162	36 Min
Chinese Scallion Pancakes	202	1 Hr
Thai Drunken Noodles	454	16 Min
Chinese Candied Haws	252	30 Min
Mongolian Beef	444	30 Min
Korean Chicken Bao	289	4 Hrs
Thai Chicken Satay & Peanut Sauce	235	30 Min
Chicken Wontons	155	20 Min
Chinese Pineapple Chicken	493	35 Min
General Tso’s Chicken	413	30 Min
Red Lentil Dahl	458	20 Min
Kofta Curry	522	55 Min
Chicken Vindaloo	199	30 Min
Classic Chinese Fried Rice	585	20 Min
Vietnamese Pho	357	35 Min
Crispy Honey Prawns	680	25 Min
Indonesian Ayam Goreng	N/A	1 Hr
Thai Cashew Chicken Fry	454	18 Min
Japanese Yakisoba	368	30 Min
Chinese Pork Steamed Buns	112	1 Hr 5 Min
Chicken Karaage	313	50 Min
Sushi Rolls	92	55 Min
Fried Egg Roll	186	2 Hrs
Rice Noodle Rolls	292	1 Hr 10 Min
Vietnamese Spring Rolls	377	1 Hr 20 Min
Lagman Noodle Soup	N/A	1 Hr 10 Min
Manti Turkish Dumplings	687	50 Min
Aloo Gosht Shorba	N/A	2 Hrs
Chuchvara	N/A	2 Hrs 15 Min

1. Singapore’s Chili Crab

No delicacy represents Singapore like their famous chili crab. Smooth buttery sauce and hot chilies drizzled over a perfectly cooked crab, yum! Be sure to deconstruct your crab or have your fish seller do so. 

Despite its complex look, chili crab can be made in less than thirty minutes. For the best taste results, use fresh crab, which can be found at your local seafood shop. 

Calories Per Serving: 315

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

2. Japanese Tempura 

Looking for a crispy, savory starter or finger food? Try Japanese Tempura. The great thing about this snack is that you can fry anything in this fluffy, airy batter, and it will taste amazing.

I like to fry shrimp or broccolis but feel free to experiment! 

Use cornstarch, flour, eggs, salt, and soda water to get a crispy batter. Sparkling water works just as well. 

Calories Per Serving: 106 

Preparation Time: 35 Min 

3. Thai Papaya Salad 

Also known as Som Tam, Thai papaya salad is a refreshing, healthy and spicy dish that works perfectly with a beef or chicken dish.

Using unripe green papaya, lime juice, brown sugar, and vegetables, you’ll have a fresh, crispy salad in less than 20 minutes. 

Before you chop up the papaya, peel it and remove the seeds, as they can be bitter. 

Calories Per Serving: 201

Preparation Time: 20 Min 

4. Korean Kimchi

When fermenting your kimchi, keep it at room temperature, then refrigerate afterward. 

It might sound complex, but kimchi is simple to make. You just need to mix the ingredients and keep an eye on them during the first two hours.

After a while, the kimchi will ferment on its own. Then, in 36 hours, you’ll have your savory side dish. 

Calories Per Serving: 941

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

5. Indonesian Satay 

Craving southeast Asian cuisine? Try this Indonesian version of the famous street food. In 35 minutes, you’ll have BBQ-style satay kebabs that are sweet, spicy and tender.

Soak your wood sticks in water for thirty minutes before cooking to prevent them from burning. 

Enjoy your kebabs with this thick, rich and creamy peanut dipping sauce. 

Calories Per Serving: 66

Preparation Time: 35 Min 

6. Singapore Roti Prata 

Roti is a widely believed Southeast Asian dish, so you’ve probably encountered many different versions while searching for your next Asian-inspired dinner option.

This one is modeled after Singaporean street roti. However, it still has some traditional Indian features, such as the flaky crust. 

The simple dough is kneaded and left to rest for around 20 minutes before forming into a circle. If you have a cast iron skillet, this would be a great time to use it, as the roti doesn’t stick. 

Calories Per Serving: 392

Preparation Time: 50 Min 

7. Korean Tteokbokki

If you’ve ever been to Korea, you already know how popular this dish is. You can find it at nearly every restaurant or street corner. With cheesy rice cakes covered in a tangy sauce and fresh herbs, it’s always an affordable dinner or lunch option.

Rice cakes can be found in Asian food shops or large grocery stores. The glutenous cakes absorb flavor very well, so you’ll experience a burst of flavor as you bite them.  

Calories Per Serving: 330 

Preparation Time: 15 Min 

8. Pad Thai Noodles 

No more cold pad thai takeout on a Saturday night. Now you can make this delicious noodle dish in your own home, and it tastes better too!

In 30 minutes or less, you’ll have a slightly spicy chicken and noodle dinner. Simply boil your noodles, brown the chicken and toss in your ingredients. 

The rice noodles make it gluten-free, and you can substitute bean sprouts with shredded cabbage or chopped broccoli. 

Calories Per Serving: 375

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

9. Saag Paneer 

This spicy Indian curry is perfect for anyone who wants a little more green in their life. Utilizing spinach and Indian paneer, you’ll get a cheesy, nutritious and hearty meal that pushes forth the green plant’s hidden flavors.  

To avoid soggy paneer squares, fry them until golden brown before tossing them into your spinach curry mix. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 35 Min 

10. Mapo Tofu 

Tofu is a staple in many Asian dishes that have crossed over into global recipes thanks to its health benefits and no-meat properties.

So naturally, vegans will be obsessed with this super spicy Mapo Tofu dish. Still, I suggest everyone try it at least once. 

Thanks to the hot Sichuan pepper, this dish from China’s famous food province packs a punch. Cut the seasoning in half if you’re not a fan of spices.

Alternatively, you could remove the husk, which holds the most heat. 

Calories Per Serving: 335

Preparation Time: 35 Min 

11. Korean Fried Chicken 

Arguably, Korean fried chicken is just as famous as the Colonel Sanders original. However, the former tastes way better if you ask me.

Not only do you get the classic buttermilk-coated crust, but you’ve treated to an extra layer of flavor thanks to the spicy gochujang sauce. 

To avoid a wet coating, pat dry your chicken, removing any excess water, before dipping it in your batter mixture. 

Calories Per Serving: 814

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 15 Min

12. Shoyu Ramen 

Ramen always looks so easy to make when eating it at a restaurant, but authentic ramen takes some skill. It can be daunting even if you’re not making your own noodles.

Take your time, and you’ll have restaurant-worthy ramen.  

You’ll need unique ingredients like dashi, tare, nitamago, chashu, and la-yu, all of which can be found at your local Asian shop. 

Calories Per Serving: 340

Preparation Time: 6 Hrs 30 Min 

13. Miso Soup

Looking to add new soups to your autumn and enter list? Give miso a try. This warm broth can be remixed to suit your personal tastes, thanks to the solid but simple base flavors.

If you have leftover dashi from the ramen recipe, you’ll need it here. When you add miso, you get this delicious soup. 

You can make your own miso or buy some at the store. Remember that miso takes at least two days but can ferment for months to enhance flavor. 

Calories Per Serving: 40

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

14. Samosas 

I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t love samosas, and these Pakistani delicacies are the perfect handmade snack. You’ll devour these in these seconds: crunchy on the outside, tender and smoky on the inside. 

You don’t have to make the wrapping yourself. In fact, I’ve found that eggroll or phyllo sheets work perfectly. 

Calories Per Serving: 140 

Preparation Time: 50 Min 

15. Sweet And Sour Chicken 

The sweet and sour flavors within Asian cuisine have to be its most popular element. So this chicken is the place to start when venturing into Asian-inspired recipes.

You can use chopped dark chicken meat, but I suggest chicken breast to avoid picking out bones. 

Once your chicken is lightly fried, toss it in the mix of soy sauce, sugar, ketchup and apple cider vinegar and bake until golden and crispy. 

Calories Per Serving: 528 

Preparation Time: 50 Min 

16. Tang Yuan Rice Balls 

These sweet, gooey rice balls are bursting with peanut butter smoothness. The runny filling makes for a waterfall of flavor as you bite into it.

The Chinese pastry takes less than an hour, which is pretty quick for traditional Chinese desserts.

The dough is a simple blend of glutinous rice flour and warm water. If you’re not a fan of peanut butter, try almond or cashew butter. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 50 Min 

17. Laab Gai

Laab Gai is the perfect blend of ground chicken, citrus dressing, fresh herbs and toasted brown rice powder.

When cooking your meat, sweat out the meat, so you don’t get a wet mix. You could also use turkey, pork, or beef. 

Serve your spicy Laab Gai with fresh iceberg lettuce or cucumber. Of course, you can always add sticky rice or noodles to beef up your chicken dish.

Calories Per Serving: 181 

Preparation Time: 27 Min 

18. Bibimbap 

Bibimbap transforms a simple rice bowl into a Korean dish loaded with flavor, texture and spice.

With sticky rice at the bottom, layer your bowl with sauteed veggies, tender marinated Korean beef, crispy mushrooms, sesame, bibimbap sauce and a sunny-side-up egg. 

With little effort, you can make enough bibimbap to last the week. It’s a nutritious meal prep option, and since it’s served at room temp, you can take your time with the prep. 

Calories Per Serving: 689

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 10 Min 

19. Naan 

Naan is one of those sides you always look forward to when eating out, but you can make it at home with minimal fuss.

For the best results, use a cast iron skillet that mimics the traditional tandoor oven in which Naan is cooked. 

Serve your warm Naan with curry, soup, aloo gobi or grilled meat. Naan also works well as a soft wrap for creamy fillings. 

Calories Per Serving: 295

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 30 Min 

20. Pakistani Parathas 

Up next is Naan’s flaky, buttery cousin, Paratha. These decadent flatbreads are great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This Pakistani version is softer than others, so it will make for a great dinner or lunch wrap. 

The key to Flaky Paratha is the way you roll them. Be sure to add a thin layer of ghee before forming your spiral. 

Calories Per Serving: 126

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 30 Min 

RELATED: The 20 Best Asian Recipes

21. Egg Drop Soup 

Eggy soupy and full of savory goodness, this egg drop delight will be your staple summer or winter soup. It only takes fifteen minutes to make and requires just eight ingredients.

You can use either chicken or vegetable stock as the main base. 

This recipe makes 6 cups of soup, so be sure to toss some in the freezer for a cold day. 

Calories Per Serving: 28

Preparation Time: 15 Min 

22. Gyoza (Sticky Dumplings)

Crispy at the bottom and tender at the top, these sticky dumplings, also known as potstickers, are so simple you’ll be mad you didn’t make them for yourself sooner.

You can stuff these delicious dumplings with anything, from frog ground beef to spicy veggies. 

Let the bottom simmer to prevent your pot stickers from burning until the edges are golden brown before adding your water. Then, let them steam until tender on top and cooked in the center. 

Calories Per Serving: 208

Preparation Time: 1Hr 15 Min 

23. Aloo Gobi 

Asian cuisine is perfect for anybody looking to incorporate vegetables into their diet. Most Indian dishes are vegetarian, and this aloo gobi celebrates spicy cauliflower and potato. 

If you’re not a fan of ghee, coconut or vegetable oil works just as well for the frying process. Serve your aloo gobi with basmati rice, Naan, roti, or Paratha. You could also have it plain. It’s that good! 

Calories Per Serving: 188

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

24. Momo Ghar

If you’re looking for chargrilled perfection, try these crunchy momos. Thanks to the tandoor paste, you don’t have to cook these in a traditional oven.

So they still have that authentic flavor. Traditional Nepalese momos, or dumplings, are stuffed with paneer, chicken, or veggies. 

Pre-cook your stuffing before grilling the momos on low heat until dark brown.  

Calories Per Serving: 21

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

25. Sticky Orange Chicken 

This tasty, no-fuss meal is a great way to spice up your weekly chicken dinner. To make things simpler, use chicken nuggets or chopped chicken breast.

Then, deep-fried before coating them in the special sticky sauce for that crunchy finish. 

To make things easier, this recipe calls for a marmalade, soy sauce and barbecue mix, but you can use reduced orange juice if you want less sugar. 

Calories Per Serving: 660

Preparation Time: 20 Min 

26. Wonton Soup

Next time you’re craving wonton soup, don’t order takeout. Instead, try this 25-minute soup with nutty, smooth sesame chili oil.

To save time, buy premade wontons and incorporate them into the soy sauce broth. To enhance your soup, use fresh garlic and ginger and baby bok choy. 

If you’re feeling inspired, make the wontons yourself. Chicken and mushroom filling is my personal favorite. 

Calories Per Serving: 502

Preparation Time: 25 Min 

27. Char Siu (Chinese BBQ Pork)

Every culture has its own form of barbeque, and Chinese char siu, or roasted meat, is just as tasty! The pork is boneless, so it’s perfect for kids and large-scale parties.

It’ll only take 10 minutes to prep and 30 to cook, but it does need to marinade the night before. 

You’ll know your BBQ pork is ready when it gets this dark pink color and the internal temperature is 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Calories Per Serving: 162

Preparation Time: 36 Min 

28. Chinese Scallion Pancakes 

I love sweet pancakes, but there’s something so satisfying about this crunchy, savory version. To create a smooth batter, finely chop the scallions. That way, you don’t get big chunks of onion in every bite. 

These snacks are vegan, so they fit everyone’s dietary needs without compromising texture and flavor. 

Calories Per Serving: 202

Preparation Time: 1 Hr

29. Thai Drunken Noodles 

Okay, these noodles will not make you drunk on anything other than flavor and decadence. They’re the perfect hangover cure, but you can enjoy them anytime.

I was sold when I found out they take only 16 minutes to make! Seriously. 

You’ll need dried rice noodles, garlic, chili, oil, soy sauce and chicken. You’ll also need fish sauce for the distinct umami flavor. 

Calories Per Serving: 454 

Preparation Time: 16 Min 

30. Chinese Candied Haws

Also known as tanghulu, this popular Chinese street snack is sweet and crunchy. Think of it as a candied kabob. You’ll need hawthorn fruits, which you can find at many markets.

You could also use grapes if hawthorns aren’t in your area. 

The coating is a simple sugar and water mix, reduced and cooled before dipping your fruits in it. In 30 minutes, you’ll have dessert. 

Calories Per Serving: 252

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

RELATED: What To Eat With Pot Stickers: 13 Asian Side Dishes

31. Mongolian Beef 

Beef stir fry comes in many shapes and sizes, and this version features thinly sliced bell peppers, onions, savory sauce and of course, steak.

When it comes to beef fry, you want a soft, quick-cooking cut of meat like sirloin, new york strip, or flank. Try to avoid the eye of round steak as it’s pretty tender. 

Cut the beef against the grain to get the softest results, and let your meat sweat out on the pan before adding the veggies. 

Calories Per Serving: 444

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

32. Korean Chicken Bao

Bouncy, fluffy, steamed bao buns are the perfect wrapper for this spicy chicken recipe. They might take a long time, but they’re worth the effort.

The result is a warm bun that tastes great no matter what stuffing you choose. 

After the dough is made, the buns take ten minutes to stream, so most of the work lies in the prep. 

Calories Per Serving: 289

Preparation Time: 4 Hrs 

33. Thai Chicken Satay & Peanut Sauce

You must make Thai night part of your week after you test this authentic recipe. The flavor is hidden in the marinated chicken and the creamy peanut sauce. 

I like to pair my skewers with fried rice, white basmati or Naan and a light soup. 

Calories Per Serving: 235

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

34. Chicken Wontons 

Now that you know how to make wonton soup, it’s time to master the wonton. Don’t be intimidated; once you get the hang of things, you’ll make these every night. 

Wonton dough is wheat-based, so you can make them yourself or buy wonton wrappers at the grocery store. I prefer the premade pack, as they fry nicely and don’t require kneading. 

Calories Per Serving: 155

Preparation Time: 20 Min 

35. Chinese Pineapple Chicken 

This pineapple version crosses sweet, sour and savory, like the sticky orange chicken. Add some spicy ginger sriracha to your pineapple sauce to amp up the flavor. 

For a healthier option, bake the chicken instead of frying it. Alternatively, you could pan-fry it and maintain that signature crunch. 

Calories Per Serving: 493

Preparation Time: 35 Min 

36. General Tso’s Chicken

Clearly, chicken is a popular ingredient in Asian dishes, and you can see why. It’s so versatile.

This homemade version of the popular takeout dish utilizes popular Chinese seasonings like rice vinegar, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar and cornstarch. It’s that simple. 

The rest of the flavor comes from the chicken, onions, fresh garlic and chilies. Serve with rice or noodles, and enjoy. 

Calories Per Serving: 413

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

37. Red Lentil Dahl

Looking for a curry-style dish? This red lentil dahl is thick and creamy, making it the perfect consistency for a starchy side dish. Packed with vegan-friendly protein, it’s a healthy option that tastes amazing. 

Since it’s an Indian dish, you can expect tons of warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, turmeric and coriander. So keep it in the freezer and reheat it when you want a warm, comforting treat. 

Calories Per Serving: 458

Preparation Time: 20 Min 

38. Kofta Curry 

Warm, bubbly, and Full of meaty goodness, the kofta curry is one of the tastiest dishes. Kofta is the Northern Indian word for meatballs, so you’ll be familiar with how to make this meal. 

Lamb Kofta tastes terrific, but you can use beef as well. Serve with warm flatbread, preferably Naan or Paratha. 

Calories Per Serving: 522

Preparation Time: 55 Min 

39. Chicken Vindaloo

Usually, Vindaloo takes hours and hours to prepare, but with this instant pot version, you’ll have dinner on the table in half an hour.

Vindaloo is famous for its Intense Indian spice and heat, but feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your palate. 

Serve with basmati rice, flatbread, or mashed potatoes. 

Calories Per Serving: 199

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

40. Classic Chinese Fried Rice

Since you’ve got so many meaty dishes on this list, here’s the perfect rice pairing. Chinese fried rice is known worldwide for its oily, seasoned taste. Still, you don’t have to dial the delivery button anymore. 

All you need is some pre-boiled rice, soy sauce, seasonal veggies and eggs. Serve with any of the meat or vegetable dishes on the list. 

Calories Per Serving: 585

Preparation Time: 20 Min 

RELATED: 15 Amazing Asian Ground Beef Recipes

41. Vietnamese Pho

According to lovers of Asian cuisine, Pho is the most popular Asian meal. If you know about Pho, however, you know what it takes a painstakingly long time to make, At least for the traditional version. 

This one is way faster, cutting time in half thanks to premade beef stock. Just buy your favorite beef stock, let some Asian ingredients simmer in it, and cook your photo perfection! 

Calories Per Serving: 357

Preparation Time: 35 Min 

42. Crispy Honey Prawns 

These fishy finger foods are perfect for your next dinner party with thin, light batter, prawns, and sweet honey garlic sauce. 

There’s a debate about Fresh v.s Frozen Prawns but use the most convenient one. If you go with frozen, thaw them before continuing with the recipe. 

Calories Per Serving: 680

Preparation Time: 25 Min 

43. Indonesian Ayam Goreng

Also known as Indonesian fried chicken, Ayam Goreng is popular street food in the Southeast Asian region thanks to its minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Since there’s no batter, you don’t have to worry about the fuss of dipping our chicken. 

The skin acts as a crispy coating and minimal seasoning lets the meat shine. Simmer the Chicken with the spices before deep frying until crisp and golden brown. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 1 Hr

44. Thai Cashew Chicken Fry 

Toasty cashews, crispy fried chicken, and sweet stir fry sauce that’s what you’ll get when you whip up this 18-minute meal.

The sauce to cashew and chicken ratio sets this stir fry apart. In addition, it’s more of a Dry Sauce Mix, so it’s great for traveling. 

I suggest roasting your own cashews for that fresh toasty flavor. 

Calories Per Serving: 454

Preparation Time: 18 Min 

45. Japanese Yakisoba

Try this yakisoba recipe if you want a strong, firm, chewy noodle and savory, warm soup. Soba is a popular noodle dish in Japan, and it’s often ordered at Japanese restaurants.

Still, this at-home version takes the complication out of everything. 

Calories Per Serving: 368

Preparation Time: 30 Min 

46. Chinese Pork Steamed Buns

Are you looking for a portable meal packed with protein that tastes like a savory cloud? These pork steamed buns are your best bet.

The dough is a labor of love, but if you make it in bulk, you’ll have ready-made bun dough whenever you want. 

If you’re scared of uncooked pork, cook the filling before you steam the buns. Then, you can eat these with an ice-cold drink and some fresh steamed vegetables. 

Calories Per Serving: 112 

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 5 Min 

47. Chicken Karaage

We’ve tackled Korean and Indonesian fried chicken, and now it’s time to make some Karaage, also known as Japanese fried chicken. For that extra crunch, keep the skin on your chicken pieces.  

Since the chicken is small, it will cook quickly, so don’t keep it in the oil for too long. 3-4 minutes for each piece should be fine. 

Calories Per Serving: 313

Preparation Time: 50 Min 

48. Sushi Rolls 

This is probably Japan’s most world-famous dish. Sushi is versatile, healthy, and packed with natural flavors.

Of course, you can make your own version with all your favorite trimmings, but this veggie roll is perfect, especially if you’re not a fan of fish. 

Swerve with spicy sriracha mayo and enjoy. 

Calories Per Serving: 92

Preparation Time: 55 Min 

49. Fried Egg Roll 

There’s nothing like a Classic & Crispy Egg Roll to accompany your fried rice and dumplings. This recipe gets as close to your favorite Chinese takeout as possible.

Egg Rolls traditionally have cabbage, so that’s what you should use for this recipe.

The recipe makes 24 rolls, which you can freeze after assembly and cook whenever you need a quick snack or light lunch. 

Calories Per Serving: 186

Preparation Time: 2 Hrs

50. Rice Noodle Rolls 

Gooey, gelatinous and soft, these mini rice noodles are a well-known dim sum dish you’ll find at high-end restaurants.

Also known as Cheung fun, these rice noodles pair perfectly with dry chili, teriyaki and sesame sauce. 

The batter takes some technique, but you can practice until you have rolls that are light yet hold their shape. 

Calories Per Serving: 292

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 10 Min

RELATED: 23 Easy Asian Desserts To Try Making

51. Vietnamese Spring Rolls 

As the cousin to the fried egg roll, these spring rolls have the same shape, but that’s where their similarities end.

This version uses rice paper as a cover and acts more like a sushi roll, where you can add whatever you want. 

Pork, carrots, shrimp, and fresh veggies create this crispy summer snack. You can serve these at room temperature or slightly chilled with the peanut hoisin sauce. 

Calories Per Serving: 377

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 20 Min 

52. Lagman Noodle Soup 

This warm, beefy noodle soup is a staple dish in Central Asia, and it makes for a great comfort meal if you’re sick or cold.

The hearty vegetables and tender meat blend perfectly with the noodles, creating an aromatic meal filled with spicy broth. 

When it comes to noodle choices, it’s up to you. I personally prefer a flat noodle as it soaks up the broth. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 1 Hr 10 Min 

53. Manti Turkish Dumplings

These tiny lamb-filled dumplings from Turkey are packed with meaty goodness and boiled to perfection. Topped with cooling garlic yogurt and spicy butter sauce, it’s the perfect introduction to Turkish cuisine. 

As with most dumpling recipes, these can be modified to include whichever filling you want. Again, try different variations, such as chicken and mushroom or cauliflower. 

Calories Per Serving: 687

Preparation Time: 50 Min 

54. Aloo Gosht Shorba

This spicy Pakistani meat and potato stew is an excellent addition to your “comfort food” resume. It’s warm, hearty, and perfect for a large dinner party.

To make sure your flavors are properly infused, it’s best to slow cook this recipe. 

Serve with basmati rice or warm chapatis, and enjoy. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A

Preparation Time: 2 Hrs

55. Chuchvara

Traditionally made in Russia and widespread in central Asia, Chuchvara, also known as Pelmeni, is a dumpling-like dish that highlights ground beef by keeping the seasoning at a minimum. 

To add firmness, the dough is enriched with egg, so kneading it might get complicated. Alternatively, you can use a dough machine and knead until smooth and shiny. 

Calories Per Serving: N/A 

Preparation Time: 2 Hrs 15 Min 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Makes Asian Food Unique? 

Like the world’s cuisines, Asian food comes with its own flavor, texture, and flair. Central Asian recipes feature warm spices, caramelized onions, lentils, tomatoes, and fluffy rice.

East Asian recipes highlight umami flavor with soy sauce, sticky rice, fish, tangy tofu, and various noodles.  

Southeast Asian recipes play with chili, spices, hot oil, cream, and fried delicacies to create a burst of flavor that often blends sweet and sour elements. 

What Is The Most Popular Food In Asia? 

Asia is a large continent with dozens of countries and thousands upon thousands of recipes. From India to Japan, the cultural differences are vast. Of course, each region has its favorite.

Still, most Asian countries have signature rice and noodle dishes, making these the most popular ingredients in Asian cuisine.  

Some of the most popular meals in the region include Pho, sushi, curry, fried rice, Naan, stir-fried beef, and soups. 

Is Cooking Asian Food Hard? 

Not at all. Asian cuisine can be easy to make, especially when considering noodle and rice options such as pad thai Chinese fried rice. Scallion pancakes are a quick breakfast option.

Any stir fry recipe like Mongolian beef and General Tso’s chicken can be made with minimal effort and take less than 30 minutes. 

Some meals like tandoori chicken, samosas, wonton soup, Naan and paranthas can be challenging to master. Still, with some practice, you’ll be making authentic Asian meals in no time.