Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, trying to come up with new and exciting meal ideas? Do you wish you had more time to relax after a long day at work, rather than slaving away over a hot stove? Look no further! This article is packed with 20 simple and delicious Asian-inspired recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights.
From savory stir-fries to flavorful curries, these quick and easy dishes are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. And the best part? Each recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, leaving you plenty of time to relax and unwind after a long day. So go ahead, take a break from your busy schedule and indulge in some culinary delights. Your taste buds (and your social calendar) will thank you!
…to be continued.
Garlic Ginger Soy Glazed Salmon
Elevate your salmon game with this sweet and savory glaze, featuring the bold flavors of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar.
3. Place the salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over each salmon fillet.
5. Drizzle sesame oil over the glazed salmon.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Easy Vegetable Stir Fry with Tofu
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the versatility of tofu with a colorful medley of vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add bell pepper and mixed vegetables; cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Return tofu to the skillet; stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
5-Ingredient Teriyaki Chicken
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple and delicious teriyaki chicken recipe. With just five ingredients, you can create a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat with the teriyaki mixture.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the coated chicken breasts on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick 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 warm bowl of rice.
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.
3. Add the kimchi and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until it starts to caramelize.
4. Add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Miso Soup with Tofu
This comforting and flavorful soup is a staple of Japanese cuisine. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and savory broth that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and add tofu, soy sauce, ginger, and pepper. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes or until tofu is heated through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Coconut Curry Noodles
In this recipe, we combine the flavors of coconut, curry, and noodles in one convenient pot. The result is a creamy, aromatic dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 1 cup curry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the noodles, coconut milk, curry sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the noodles are cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Speedy Vietnamese Pho Ga (Chicken Pho)
In just under 30 minutes, you can create a delicious and comforting bowl of pho ga, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, beef broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, and lime juice.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Assemble the pho by placing cooked noodles into a bowl, then adding sliced chicken and hot broth.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fast Thai Basil Pork (Pad Krapow)
A flavorful and aromatic Thai dish made with succulent pork, fresh basil, and chilies, all cooked to perfection in a wok.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2-3 Thai bird’s eye chilies, sliced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add oil and swirl to coat. Cook pork for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
3. Add garlic, chilies, and soy sauce. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add chopped basil and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
15-Minute Sesame Peanut Noodles
Whip up a flavorful and nutritious noodle dish in just 15 minutes with this simple recipe!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles or soba noodles
– 2 tbsp peanut butter
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add peanut butter and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy.
4. Add soy sauce, garlic, and peanuts. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until well combined.
5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together until noodles are well coated with the peanut-sesame mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions.
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Steamed Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
Easy Steamed Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
These soft and fluffy dumplings are a staple in many Asian cuisines, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. This recipe is quick and easy to make, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Filling of your choice (e.g., ground pork, shredded chicken, or vegetables)
– Soy dipping sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, then place a spoonful of filling in the center.
5. Fold the dough over the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Steam dumplings for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve with soy dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Sweet and Sour Tofu
This recipe yields a deliciously tangy and sweet dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an appetizer. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying crispy and flavorful tofu in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, vinegar, and water until dissolved.
2. Add tofu cubes to the bowl and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Remove tofu from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
5. Fry tofu cubes until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a splash of water to create a slurry.
7. Add the slurry to the skillet and stir constantly for 1 minute, or until sauce thickens slightly.
8. Remove from heat and season with soy sauce (if using).
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Japanese Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake)
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese savory pancake originating from the Hiroshima region. This recipe is a simplified version that can be prepared quickly and easily.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup diced green onions (scallions)
– 1/4 cup grated daikon (Japanese white radish)
– 1/4 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/4 cup cooked pork or beef, diced
– 2 tablespoons okonomiyaki sauce (or substitute with soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour and water until smooth.
2. Add green onions, daikon, cabbage, and pork or beef. Mix well.
3. Heat the okonomiyaki pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour in the batter and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown.
5. Loosen with a spatula and flip. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the other side is also golden brown.
6. Brush with okonomiyaki sauce (or soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per pancake. Makes 1-2 servings.
Fast Korean Beef Bulgogi
A classic Korean dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor! This recipe is a simplified version of the traditional bulgogi, which typically involves marinating beef for hours. With this method, you’ll get deliciously tender and savory beef in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, chili flakes, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the beef strips and marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the beef from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Cook the beef for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
5. Add the sliced onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Serve the bulgogi over white rice, garnished with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Speedy Chinese Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes
Speedy Chinese Scrambled Eggs with Tomatoes Recipe
Quickly cook up a flavorful breakfast or brunch dish that combines the richness of scrambled eggs with the brightness of tomatoes and the savory flavors of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the sesame oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they’re almost set, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes and soy sauce to the eggs. Stir-fry everything together for another minute, breaking up any large tomato pieces with a spatula if needed.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as desired.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if you like.
Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes
Easy Indonesian Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)
A classic Indonesian dish, Nasi Goreng is a flavorful and filling meal made with fried rice, vegetables, and your choice of protein. This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
7. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
8. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetables and eggs for about 2-3 minutes, or until everything is well combined.
9. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a fried egg if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Thai Green Curry with Vegetables
This vibrant and flavorful curry is a staple of Thai cuisine, made with a rich and creamy green curry paste, succulent vegetables, and your choice of protein. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of creating a delicious and quick Thai green curry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, potatoes, etc.)
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 1 can coconut milk
– 1 cup water or chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk and water or broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls
These refreshing spring rolls are a perfect combination of crunchy vegetables, savory shrimp, and tangy peanut sauce. Enjoy them as an appetizer or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (about 20-24 sheets)
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped mint leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
– 2 tablespoons peanut sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Soak a rice paper wrapper for about 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes soft and pliable.
3. Place the wrapper on a clean surface and arrange 1/4 cup of shrimp mixture along the center of the wrapper.
4. Add chopped vegetables and herbs on top of the shrimp.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a compact spring roll.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
7. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! These rolls are best served fresh.
Fast Japanese Gyudon (Beef Bowl)
A popular Japanese comfort food, Gyudon is a hearty and savory beef bowl dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. This recipe serves 1-2 people.
Ingredients:
– 200g thinly sliced beef (such as ribeye or sirloin)
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Steamed Japanese rice (cook according to package instructions)
Instructions:
1. Slice the beef into thin strips and season with salt and black pepper.
2. Heat 1/4 cup of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the beef strips to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes or until browned.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sake (if using). Pour the mixture over the beef and stir to coat.
7. Serve the Gyudon over steamed Japanese rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Malaysian Laksa Soup
A flavorful and comforting soup that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe is an adaptation of the classic Malaysian laksa, with a rich coconut milk broth and a variety of vegetables and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bean sprouts, carrots, and bok choy)
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 2 cups coconut milk
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon laksa paste (or curry powder)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and mixed vegetables. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the cooked noodles, coconut milk, broth, and laksa paste (or curry powder). Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Filipino Chicken Adobo
A classic Filipino dish that’s a staple in many households, chicken adobo is a flavorful and easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or legs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, black pepper, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious Asian-inspired recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This article features 20 simple and flavorful recipes that are perfect for a hectic evening. From savory stir-fries to spicy curries, and from comfort food like dumplings to exotic flavors like Korean beef bulgogi, these easy-to-make dishes will satisfy any palate. Discover the secret to cooking up a storm in no time with these 20 quick simple Asian recipes!
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