Cook like a pro with 17 Asian recipes anyone can master

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These 17 Asian-inspired recipes are here to show you that cooking like a pro doesn’t require a passport or a fancy kitchen. With a mix of iconic dishes and lesser-known gems, they turn complex flavors into approachable meals for any skill level. You won’t need special training, just a sense of adventure and a little counter space. Who knew making something this impressive could feel so effortless?

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you enjoy a good kick of spice and a touch of sour, you will appreciate Tom Yum Soup. It’s widely beloved for its ability to warm you up and boost your spirits with each spoonful. This soup offers a combination of flavors that harmonize in a unique way, sure to draw interest at any dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, mastering this dish can be motivating and rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Tonkotsu Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, a halved boiled egg, sliced meat, green leafy vegetables, and mushrooms in broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Preparing Tonkotsu Ramen might seem like a challenge, but it’s entirely achievable with a bit of patience. Known for its rich, pork-based broth, this dish provides a hearty experience that’s difficult to find anywhere else. People often enjoy it topped with various condiments, making each bowl a personalized feast. It’s a perfect example of how a simple meal can be turned into a comforting, filling experience.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Egg Drop Soup is as fun to make as it is to eat, with its silky threads of eggs floating in a warming broth. This soup is a staple in many homes for its simplicity and the quick preparation time. Each serving is both soothing and light, ideal for a quick lunch or as the starting course of a longer meal sequence. Regardless of your cooking level, this soup can make anyone feel like a skillful cook without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For anyone who adores the blend of sweetness and spice, Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry could quickly become a favorite. This dish shines with its thick, aromatic curry that envelopes each shrimp perfectly. It’s often chosen for special occasions but is straightforward enough to prepare for a weeknight dinner. The richness of the coconut combined with a good heat from the spices creates a memorable meal each time.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This wonderful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cashew Chicken combines crunchy cashews with tender chicken, all tossed in a flavorful sauce. This dish is popular in many places for its fulfilling texture and heartiness. It serves well over rice or noodles, making it versatile for different meal preferences. Plus, it’s a fulfilling way to bring a touch of restaurant-quality to your dinner table without leaving home.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Miso Soup

A bowl of miso soup with tofu cubes, seaweed, and green onions.
Miso Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Starting your meal with Miso Soup can set the tone for a wonderful dining experience. It’s celebrated for its health benefits and soothing properties. This soup’s simplicity is misleading; the depth of flavor achieved is profound and loved by many. It’s a testament to the power of minimal ingredients coming together to form something truly nourishing.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When you mix traditional Mexican flavors with classic Japanese noodle soup, you get Birria Ramen. This hybrid offers a rich, spicy broth that transforms the traditional ramen experience into something extraordinary. It’s gaining popularity for its bold flavors and comforting qualities. Whether for a casual gathering or a solo treat, it’s a contemporary twist sure to gain applause.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Sesame Chicken

A close-up of glazed chicken pieces with sesame seeds and chopped scallions on a bed of rice.
Sesame Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Indulge in Sesame Chicken for a truly fulfilling dinner. This dish is all about the incredible sauce that the chicken pieces are glazed in, with sesame seeds adding a nice crunch. It’s a common choice for a reason – easy to cook but always impressive on the dining table. Kids and adults alike usually list this as one of their favorite meals, proving its universal appeal.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re in the mood for something with a bit of tang and lots of depth, Kimchi Stew is the way to go. This Korean dish is comforting, especially during colder months, with its hot and sour profile. Ingredients simmer together to create a stew that is both invigorating and indulgent. It’s a dish that can transform your dinner into a cozy retreat.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Shrimp Tempura

A bowl of crispy fried shrimp with slices of green onions and jalapeños.
Shrimp Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crispy and golden, Shrimp Tempura is always a crowd-pleaser. It’s not just about the crunch but also the lightness of the batter that makes it special. This dish often serves as a fantastic appetizer or a side in a more extensive feast. Perfecting it at home can be a wonderful challenge, but once mastered, it’s a skill to boast about.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Close-up of a stir-fry dish with chicken, broccoli, mushrooms, and sesame seeds, coated in a soy-based sauce.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For a quick and healthy option, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry will not disappoint. This dish balances the protein-packed chicken and nutrient-rich broccoli with a savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s a staple for a busy weekday meal that requires minimum fuss but delivers maximum taste. Plus, it makes for great leftovers, perfect for next-day lunches.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Thai Drunken Noodles bring the heat and a bunch of flavors that mingle beautifully on your palate. This dish is a favorite among those who love their meals with a spicy kick. It’s perfect for whipping up on a lively dinner occasion, where bold tastes are celebrated. Whether you’re cooking for excitement or comfort, this dish promises to pack a punch.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Transforming the traditional sushi experience, Sushi Bake is a deconstructed version that’s oven-baked. It’s an inventive take that combines all the beloved flavors of sushi in a casserole form. Each bite is a mix of creamy, crunchy, and umami, making it irresistible. It’s a fun, shareable dish that’s perfect for parties or family meals.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Balancing the two distinct flavors, Sweet and Sour Sauce is versatile and highly popular. It’s known for its ability to complement a variety of dishes, from appetizers to main courses. Each batch can be adjusted to taste, playing more toward sweet or sour depending on preference. This sauce is a staple in many kitchens due to its appeal and ease of preparation.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce.
Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Korean cuisine brings us Easy Bibimbap, a vibrant bowl of mixed ingredients, each adding a burst of flavor. This dish allows for creativity, as you can throw in whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. It’s not only visually appealing with its array of colors but also a balanced meal. Even for those new to Korean dishes, it’s a welcoming introduction that’s simple yet full of taste.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite into a colorful Vegetable Stir Fry that not only delights but also provides a healthful benefit with each bite. It’s quick to whip up and can cater to a variety of dietary preferences, making it a versatile choice for meal planning. Each vegetable contributes to a texture and flavor that keeps every bite interesting. It’s a joyful way to enjoy your greens and any other veggies you favor.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Orange Chicken

A bowl of crispy tofu coated in sesame sauce, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, served on a bed of lettuce.
Orange Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Fans of sweet and sour flavors will likely enjoy Orange Chicken, a dish that presents a perfect balance of both. This popular meal has a crispy coating that locks in the juicy goodness of the chicken. It’s a mainstay in many dining establishments but is straightforward enough to replicate at home. Plus, it pairs excellently with a bowl of steamed rice, which helps soak up the extra sauce.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

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