Are you ready to take your taste buds on a flavorful journey through Asia? Look no further! The rich culinary heritage of this incredible continent offers a vast array of mouthwatering dishes that are sure to tantalize your senses. In this article, we’ll explore 18 irresistible Asian appetizer recipes that will leave you craving for more.
From the savory steamed pork dumplings of China to the crispy kimchi pancakes of Korea, each dish is a masterclass in flavor and technique. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to add some excitement to your cooking repertoire, these recipes are sure to delight. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Asian appetizers, exploring a diverse range of flavors, textures, and techniques that will transport your taste buds across the continent.
Steamed Pork Dumplings
Savor the flavors of traditional Chinese cuisine with these tender and juicy steamed pork dumplings. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying this comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the pork mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. In a large steamer basket, place the dumplings in a single layer, leaving some space between each dumpling.
6. Steam over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until the dumplings are cooked through and tender.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Spring Rolls
Experience the freshness and simplicity of Vietnam’s beloved street food with this recipe for crispy spring rolls filled with shrimp, vegetables, and herbs. These delicate bundles are perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (cucumber, carrots, bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Place a rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10 seconds, until it becomes pliable.
3. Remove the wrapper and place it on a clean surface.
4. Arrange 2-3 pieces of shrimp, vegetables, and cilantro in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the spring rolls until crispy and golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Serve warm with soy sauce and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Chicken Satay
Savor the flavors of Southeast Asia with this classic Thai recipe. Chicken satay is a popular street food that’s easy to make and packed with aromatic spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup peanut oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers or metal rods
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine coconut milk, peanut oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and thread onto skewers or metal rods.
3. Brush the chicken with the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly.
4. Grill the satay over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite accompaniments, such as peanut sauce and sliced cucumbers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Gyoza
Gyoza is a popular Japanese dish consisting of pan-seared dumplings filled with a savory mixture of pork, vegetables, and spices. This recipe yields a delicious and authentic taste of Japan.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gyoza wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, green onions, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a gyoza wrapper on a clean surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
4. Heat a non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat with about 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Pan-fry the gyoza for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, including preparation and pan-frying time.
Korean Kimchi Pancakes
A twist on traditional Korean pancakes, these kimchi-filled fritters add a spicy kick to your meal. Made with a simple batter and flavorful kimchi filling, they’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade), finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add water and mix until smooth batter forms.
3. Add kimchi and mix well.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Pour about 1/4 cup of the batter into the pan and spread evenly to form a pancake.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until edges start to curl and surface is dry.
7. Loosen with spatula and flip. Cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes (depending on number of pancakes)
Enjoy your crispy and spicy Korean kimchi pancakes!
Chinese Scallion Pancakes
These savory pancakes are a popular street food in China, made with scallions, flour, and water. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces.
4. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into an oval shape.
5. Place chopped scallions in the center of each pancake, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the edges over to form a tight seal and press gently to adhere.
7. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
8. Fry pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Indonesian Beef Satay
Experience the flavors of Indonesia with this classic beef satay recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious meal or as an appetizer. Marinated in a mixture of spices, yogurt, and lime juice, these skewers are grilled to perfection and served with peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine coconut milk, yogurt, soy sauce, ginger, lime juice, coriander powder, cumin powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Add the beef strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated beef onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the satay for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with peanut sauce and sliced cucumber, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Malaysian Curry Puffs
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of Malaysia with these crispy curry puffs, filled with a rich and aromatic curry filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup curry paste (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened.
3. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon curry filling onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Lumpia
Lumpia is a popular Filipino snack or appetizer that can be served with a variety of dipping sauces. This recipe yields crispy and delicious spring rolls filled with vegetables and sometimes meat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and onions)
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded chicken or pork
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the vegetables, meat, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using).
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface with one corner pointing towards you.
3. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
5. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the lumpia until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes on each side.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Fish Cakes
A classic Thai street food, fish cakes are a flavorful and addictive snack that’s easy to make at home. These crispy patties are packed with fish, aromatics, and spices, making them a great appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fish (cod, tilapia, or catfish), flaked
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons Thai fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine fish, garlic, ginger, curry paste, breadcrumbs, fish sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove fish cakes from the oil and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including frying time).
Japanese Takoyaki
Takoyaki is a popular Japanese street food that combines crispy and fluffy batter with tender pieces of octopus, green onion, and tempura bits. This recipe brings the authentic flavors of Japan to your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup takoyaki flour (or all-purpose flour)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/2 cup diced octopus (tako)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onion
– 1/4 cup tempura bits (tenkasu)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Gradually add water while whisking until smooth batter forms.
2. Heat a takoyaki pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Brush with vegetable oil.
3. Pour 1/4 cup of batter into the pan and spread evenly to form a circular shape.
4. Arrange 2-3 pieces of octopus, green onion, and tempura bits on one half of the batter.
5. Fold the other half of the batter over the filling. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bottom is crispy.
6. Flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Japchae
Japchae is a popular Korean dish made from stir-fried glass noodles and vegetables, often served as a side dish or light meal. This recipe brings together the classic flavors of Korea in a quick and easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 200g glass noodles (dangmyeon)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
5. Add the cooked glass noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes.
6. Add the spinach leaves and stir-fry until wilted.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Potstickers
Get ready to delight your taste buds with this traditional recipe for Chinese potstickers! These crispy-bottomed, savory-filled dumplings are a staple of Chinese cuisine and are perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/2 cup finely chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, scallions, pork, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the potsticker.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook potstickers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Banh Mi Sliders
A twist on the classic Vietnamese sandwich, these bite-sized sliders pack a flavor punch with pickled carrots and daikon, grilled pork, and crispy baguette. Perfect for parties or a quick snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 8-10 small baguettes (or regular-sized baguette cut into smaller pieces)
– Pickled carrots and daikon (store-bought or homemade)
– Mayonnaise or sriracha mayo (optional)
– Cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Marinate pork in fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill pork until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
3. Slice baguettes into smaller pieces and toast or grill until crispy.
4. Assemble sliders by placing grilled pork on toasted baguette, topping with pickled carrots and daikon, and finishing with mayonnaise or sriracha mayo if desired.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes marinating time)
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Bites
A sweet and sticky twist on traditional Thai desserts, these bite-sized treats combine the flavors of ripe mango and coconut with soft glutinous rice. Perfect for a quick snack or dessert to-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked glutinous rice (also known as “sweet rice”)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh mango
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked glutinous rice, sugar, and shredded coconut. Mix well until sugar is fully incorporated.
2. Fold in diced mango and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.
3. Use a small cookie scoop or spoon to portion out the mixture into bite-sized balls.
4. Place the balls onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle with coconut oil and gently press down on each ball to flatten slightly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
7. Serve chilled, perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including refrigeration time)
Japanese Agedashi Tofu
Agedashi tofu is a popular Japanese dish that combines the tender texture of pan-fried tofu with a light and delicate broth. This simple recipe yields a flavorful and refreshing snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Dashi broth (see below)
Dashi Broth:
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons dried Kombu seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour and salt.
3. Pour ice-cold water into the flour mixture and whisk until smooth.
4. Dip each tofu piece into the batter, coating evenly.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry the battered tofu pieces until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Serve hot with dashi broth spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Korean Mandu
Mandu are Korean-style dumplings that can be steamed, fried, or boiled, and filled with a variety of ingredients. In this recipe, we’ll make a classic pork and kimchi filling, perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients:
+ 1 pound ground pork
+ 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
+ 1 tablespoon soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon sesame oil
+ 1 clove garlic, minced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
4. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of the circle, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape, and press the edges together to seal.
7. Heat a non-stick pan with vegetable oil over medium heat, and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Char Siu Bao
A classic Cantonese dim sum dish, Chinese Char Siu Bao (also known as BBQ Pork Buns) is a sweet and savory delight. These soft, fluffy buns are filled with tender char siu (barbecue pork) and served steamed.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Char siu filling (see below)
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Char Siu Filling:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and milk to form a dough.
3. Knead for 10 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide into 8-10 portions and roll out each into a ball.
5. Flatten each ball into a disk shape.
6. Place a tablespoon of char siu filling in the center, then fold and seal.
7. Steam buns for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through Asia with these 18 irresistible appetizer recipes! From savory pork dumplings and crispy spring rolls, to spicy satay and flavorful potstickers, this collection has something for every taste bud. Discover how to make authentic Asian dishes like gyoza, kimchi pancakes, and curry puffs, or try your hand at unique fusion flavors like mango sticky rice bites and agedashi tofu. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating mouthwatering Asian-inspired appetizers that are sure to impress.
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