Explore a selection of East Asian meals you can easily make at home. From well-known favorites to interesting flavor combinations, these dishes bring a mix of tastes and ingredients. Each recipe is simple to follow, with clear instructions and easy-to-find ingredients. Whether you’re trying something new or making a familiar dish, these meals add variety to your cooking. Enjoy making flavorful dishes and discovering different ways to prepare them. Bring a touch of East Asian cooking to your table with these different recipes.
1. Kimchi Bibimbap
Kimchi Bibimbap is a classic Korean dish. Start with 200g of steamed rice as your base. Add 100g of kimchi, 50g of spinach, and 50g of bean sprouts, all cooked separately. Include 30g of carrots julienned and lightly stir-fried. Arrange these toppings neatly on the rice. Fry an egg, sunny side up, and place it on top. For seasoning, mix two tablespoons of gochujang with one tablespoon of sesame oil. Drizzle this sauce over the bibimbap before serving. Mix everything thoroughly just before eating. The harmonious blend of spicy, savory flavors makes it irresistible.
2. Japanese Tamagoyaki
Tamagoyaki is a Japanese rolled omelet, ideal for breakfast or as a side dish. Beat four large eggs with one tablespoon of sugar and one teaspoon of soy sauce. Heat a rectangular pan over medium heat and add a thin layer of the egg mixture. Once set, roll it to one side and add more egg mixture. Continue this process until all the egg is used. The result is a sweet and savory layered omelet. Cut into sections and serve with a bit of soy sauce or pickled ginger. The balance of flavors is delightful, making it a must-try.
3. Chinese Mapo Tofu
Mapo Tofu is a Sichuan dish that combines tofu with savory flavors. Use 400g of silken tofu and 150g of ground beef for this recipe. Begin by stir-frying one tablespoon of ginger and garlic in two tablespoons of vegetable oil. Add the beef and cook until brown. Next, add one tablespoon of chili bean paste. Carefully place the tofu into the pan, stirring gently to avoid breaking it. Pour in 200ml of chicken broth and simmer for 10 minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions. The spicy, numbing sauce is complemented by the tofu’s smooth texture.
4. Thai Green Curry
Thai Green Curry is a fragrant and spicy delight. For the paste, blend four green chilies, two shallots, and one clove of garlic. In 200ml coconut milk, cook 300g of chicken pieces until tender. Stir in the curry paste, adding 100g of eggplant and 50g of green beans. Let simmer for 15 minutes. Finish with two tablespoons of fish sauce and a handful of Thai basil leaves. Serve with jasmine rice. Its creamy texture and spicy undertones make a satisfying meal. Adjust the chilies according to your spice preference.
5. Vietnamese Pho
Pho is a Vietnamese soup with aromatic broth and rice noodles. For this, simmer one liter of beef broth with one cinnamon stick and star anise for 30 minutes. Prepare 200g of rice noodles separately. In a bowl, place thin slices of beef, about 150g, and pour the hot broth over to cook the meat. Add a handful of bean sprouts and fresh herbs like mint and basil. Serve with lime wedges and sliced chili. This dish is fragrant and nourishing, ideal for a cozy meal. Customize it with extra herbs and spices to your liking.
6. Indonesian Nasi Goreng
Nasi Goreng is Indonesia’s famous fried rice. Use 200g of day-old rice for better texture. Cook one chopped onion, two garlic cloves, and one tablespoon of tomato paste in oil. Add 100g of shrimp and 50g of julienned carrots. Stir in the rice and two tablespoons of sweet soy sauce. Mix well. Top with a fried egg and serve with prawn crackers. The sweet and savory blend of flavors makes it a comforting dish. It’s a versatile recipe, easy to adjust with different meats or vegetables.
7. Filipino Chicken Adobo
Chicken Adobo is a staple in Filipino cuisine. Marinate 500g of chicken pieces in 100ml of soy sauce, 50ml of apple cide vinegar, one tablespoon of black peppercorns, and three crushed garlic cloves for at least an hour. In a pot, brown the marinated chicken, then add the marinade and simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is tender. Serve with steamed rice. Its rich, savory sauce is a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
8. Malaysian Laksa
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup popular in Malaysia. For the soup base, blend two red chilies, two shallots, and one clove of garlic. In 200ml of coconut milk, add the paste and simmer. Add 200g of chicken and 100g of bean sprouts. Cook until the shrimp are done. Prepare 200g of rice noodles separately and add to the soup. Garnish with fresh cilantro. The coconut milk adds creaminess, balancing the spicy paste. It’s a hearty dish suitable for spice lovers. Enjoy it with a squeeze of lime for added zest.
9. Korean Jjigae
Jjigae is a Korean stew, rich in flavor and nutrients. Start with 200ml of fish or vegetable broth. Add 100g of tofu, 50g of zucchini, and 50g of mushrooms. Mix in one tablespoon of gochujang and one teaspoon of soy sauce. Let it simmer for 15 minutes. It is typically served with steamed rice. The stew’s depth of flavor from the gochujang and the freshness of the vegetables makes it a comforting meal. Feel free to add more vegetables or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
10. Singaporean Hainanese Chicken Rice
Hainanese Chicken Rice is a beloved dish in Singapore. Poach 500g of chicken in one liter of water with ginger and scallions for 45 minutes. Use the broth to cook 200g of jasmine rice for added flavor. Serve the chicken sliced over the rice with cucumber on the side. Prepare a dipping sauce with two tablespoons of soy sauce, one tablespoon of sesame oil, and one teaspoon of grated ginger. This dish’s subtle flavors are enhanced by the fragrant rice and tangy sauce. A healthy, simple meal that’s satisfying and delicious.