Save money and enjoy flavor with 19 Asian recipes

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Save some cash and skip the takeout with these 19 Asian recipes that bring variety to your table. Whether you’re after something quick or craving a classic, this list has you covered without the stress. It’s easier than you think to whip up something that feels like a treat without blowing your budget. Bonus? Leftovers so good, they might just make your coworkers rethink their lunch choices.

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives.
Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

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.

Save some cash and enjoy a classic takeout favorite at home. Sesame Chicken combines tender bites with a sweet and savory glaze that hits the spot. It’s a dish that balances simple and bold in every bite. Perfect for weeknights or when you want something that feels special.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

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.

Craving comfort without the price tag? Tonkotsu Ramen is the kind of bowl that brings rich, hearty flavors right to your table. It’s loaded with textures and just enough kick to keep it interesting. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it a crowd-pleaser for a quiet night in or a laid-back dinner with friends.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Turn leftover rice into something you’ll actually look forward to eating. Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and easy fix when you want a balanced meal without much effort. It’s got everything you need to skip delivery. Make a big batch, and you’ll have lunch ready for the next day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Shrimp Tempura

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

Whether it’s a snack or part of the main meal, Shrimp Tempura is always a crowd-pleaser. Lightly crisp and totally fulfilling, it’s great for sharing or keeping all to yourself. It pairs well with just about any dip or sauce you have around. Perfect for when you want something crunchy and fun.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

This dish is proof you don’t need to dine out to get restaurant vibes. Butter Chicken is creamy, rich, and packed with bold flavors. It’s the perfect way to shake up your usual dinner routine without breaking the bank. Serve it with whatever you’ve got on hand for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

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.

Bold and comforting, Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry is a dish that brings the heat and the creaminess. It’s a great option for when you’re craving something out of the ordinary. The mix of flavors keeps it interesting without overwhelming yourpalate. Pair it with your favorite sides for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

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.

Takeout vibes on a budget? Yes, please. Orange Chicken combines crispy bites with a tangy sauce that’s seriously addictive. It’s one of those meals that works for a quick weeknight fix or a chill Friday dinner. Leftovers? Don’t count on it lasting long—it’s that good. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a feast that hits all the right notes without hitting your wallet.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Miso Soup

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

Whether it’s a starter or the main star, Miso Soup is a simple, comforting choice. It’s light yet fulfilling, perfect when you want something warm without feeling heavy. With its soothing flavors, it pairs well with just about anything. Budget-friendly and fast, it’s a go-to for any night.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a little heat to your dinner rotation with Kung Pao Chicken. It’s packed with bold flavors and just enough spice to keep things interesting. Great for nights when you’re craving something different without ordering in. The leftovers? If there are any, they reheat like a dream.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

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.

Fast, comforting, and perfect for when you’re short on time, Egg Drop Soup delivers big on simplicity. Its smooth texture and mild flavors make it great as a starter or a main. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste. Easy to whip up, it’s the ultimate no-stress meal.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

Cashew Chicken

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

Cashew Chicken brings together a nice mix of textures and flavors that feel like a treat. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is super easy to make at home. Perfect for those nights when you want something filling without extra effort. Bonus: it’s easy to make extra for lunch tomorrow.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Hot and Sour Soup

Bowl of hot and sour soup with mushrooms, tofu, and sliced green onions, with a spoon on the side.
Hot and Sour Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spice up your soup game with Hot and Sour Soup—a bowl of bold, tangy flavors. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but also works as a starter for something bigger. Easy on the wallet, this soup proves that comfort food doesn’t have to cost a lot. Quick, warm, and satisfying every time.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup

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.

Skip the takeout and enjoy Easy Bibimbap right at home. It’s all about balance with a mix of fresh and cooked elements that just works. Great for using up what you’ve got in the fridge while still feeling like a complete meal. Topping it off is half the fun and totally customizable.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

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.

Need a quick fix with big flavor? Tom Yum Soup is a spicy and tangy option that hits all the right notes. It’s light yet packed with enough punch to feel like a complete dish. With its bold, tangy broth and vibrant spices, it’s perfect for cozy nights in when you’re craving something out of the ordinary. Plus, it’s ridiculously easy to whip up when you need something comforting and exciting in a pinch.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

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.

This dish is a great way to keep dinner simple without losing flavor. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is an easy one to pull together any night of the week. It’s hearty, wholesome, and satisfying without a lot of fuss. Plus, it’s light on your wallet while delivering big on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

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.

Warm, bold, and full of character, Kimchi Stew is a go-to for something filling and comforting. It’s perfect for when you want a dish with a little kick and lots of depth. Made to share, but so good you might want to keep it all to yourself. Great for cozy nights or meal-prepping for the week.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

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.

If you love the idea of sushi without the effort, this is your answer. Sushi Bake brings the same great textures and flavors but in a low-maintenance way. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a casual dinner at home. Save some cash and skip the takeout because this hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

Korean Corn Dogs

Several breaded and fried corn dogs on sticks, drizzled with mustard and ketchup, placed on white crumpled paper.
Korean Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Korean Corn Dogs are fun, filling, and a total crowd-pleaser. This recipe deliver that irresistible combo of crispy and chewy in every bite. They’re the kind of snack that feels fancy but costs less than you’d expect. Great for a weekend treat or a movie night bite.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives.
Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Perfect for those times when you crave bold flavors and a comforting dish. Sweet and Sour Pork balances tangy and rich elements in a way that feels like a treat. It’s a fantastic way to stretch your grocery budget without missing out on a great dinner. You’ll want to make this a regular on your meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

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