Start your day with a flavorful twist! Asian cuisine offers a world of delicious and authentic breakfast options that will take you on a culinary journey across the continent. From sweet treats to savory dishes, these 18 mouth-watering recipes will inspire you to try something new every morning.
In this article, we’ll explore the diverse breakfast traditions of Asia, from steamed pork buns in China to hotteok pancakes in Korea, and everything in between. Whether you’re a foodie looking to expand your palate or simply seeking a tasty way to start your day, these recipes are sure to delight. So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of Asian breakfasts!
Steamed Pork Buns (Char Siu Bao)
This classic Cantonese dish consists of soft, fluffy buns filled with sweet and savory roasted pork. With this recipe, you can create an authentic Char Siu Bao at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons instant yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 pound roasted pork, shredded
– 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt. Gradually add warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 8 equal pieces.
4. Roll out each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
5. Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each bun, then fold and seal the edges.
6. Steam the buns over boiling water for 12-15 minutes or until fluffy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Banh Mi Omelette
A twist on the classic French omelette, this Vietnamese-inspired version is filled with sweet and savory flavors. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, it’s a delicious combination of crispy baguette, tender eggs, and tangy pickled vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon (or substitute with pickled cucumber)
– 2 slices of cooked pork or chicken (optional)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced in half
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the eggs and cook until almost set, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the pickled carrots and daikon on one half of the omelette.
4. If using, add the cooked pork or chicken on top of the vegetables.
5. Sprinkle soy sauce and fish sauce (if using) over the filling.
6. Fold the other half of the omelette over the filling to create a half-moon shape.
7. Cook for an additional minute until the eggs are fully set.
8. Serve on toasted baguette with your favorite condiments.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice is a popular Korean dish that combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comforting warmth of fried rice. This recipe adds a spicy kick from gochugaru (Korean chili flakes) and crispy texture from toasted sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Toasted sesame seeds for garnish
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 gochugaru; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your spicy Korean-style fried rice with kimchi!
Japanese Tamagoyaki (Sweet Rolled Omelette)
Tamagoyaki is a classic Japanese dessert that’s both sweet and savory, perfect for breakfast or as a snack. This recipe yields a deliciously rolled omelette with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, soy sauce, sake or white wine, mirin, and sugar until well combined.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and cook for about 30 seconds.
3. Tilt the pan to allow the eggs to cook evenly.
4. Once the eggs are almost set, use a spatula to gently lift and fold the edges of the omelette towards the center.
5. Continue cooking and folding the omelette for another minute.
6. Use the spatula to roll the omelette into a compact cylinder shape.
7. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, until the eggs are fully set.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 minutes
Chinese Congee with Century Egg
This classic Chinese congee recipe is a comforting and nourishing dish that pairs well with the creamy, savory flavor of century egg. This simple and easy-to-make congee is perfect for a cold winter morning or as a soothing snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of uncooked white rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1/2 century egg, sliced into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and add 4 cups of fresh water. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the congee has thickened to your liking.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced century egg and stir-fry until it’s lightly browned.
4. Add the cooked century egg to the congee and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve the congee hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (congee) + 10 minutes (century egg)
Thai Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango
This classic Thai dessert combines the creamy richness of coconut sticky rice with the sweetness of ripe mango, creating a delightful harmony of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous rice (also known as “sweet rice”)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh mango slices for serving
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions using a 1:2 ratio of rice to water.
3. Add coconut milk, vegetable oil, and salt to the cooked rice. Stir until well combined.
4. Cook for an additional 5 minutes over low heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is creamy and sticky.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature with sliced mango on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including soaking time)
Indonesian Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)
A classic Indonesian dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious! This recipe is a staple of Indonesian cuisine, made with a medley of vegetables, meat or seafood, and served with a fried egg on top.
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)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or seafood of your choice
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Chopped scallions and fried shallots for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or seafood; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until well combined.
5. Push rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in an egg and scramble it until cooked through.
6. Mix egg with rice mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot garnished with chopped scallions and fried shallots.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Filipino Champorado (Chocolate Rice Porridge)
A beloved breakfast or snack option in the Philippines, Champorado is a rich and comforting treat that combines the warmth of chocolate with the comfort of rice. This recipe brings together the flavors of cocoa powder, milk, sugar, and glutinous rice to create a deliciously creamy and sweet porridge.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked glutinous rice, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
4. Gradually add the milk to the cocoa mixture, whisking until smooth.
5. Add the cocoa mixture to the cooked rice porridge and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Malaysian Roti Canai with Curry Dip
Experience the warmth and comfort of Malaysian cuisine with this classic roti canai recipe, served with a creamy curry dip. This popular street food is easy to make at home and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil for brushing
– Curry dip ingredients (below)
Curry Dip:
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide into small balls and roll out each ball into thin circles.
5. Brush with oil and cook in a non-stick pan or wok over medium heat, flipping frequently, until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
6. Serve with curry dip, made by sautéing onions and garlic, then adding curry powder and coconut milk. Simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Miso Soup with Tofu
A classic Japanese comfort food, this miso soup is a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with steamed rice and various Japanese dishes. With the addition of silken tofu, this recipe provides a creamy and savory delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dashi broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1/4 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium pot, bring dashi broth to a simmer.
2. Whisk in miso paste until dissolved.
3. Add cubed tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in soy sauce, grated ginger, and black pepper.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thinly sliced scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Korean Bibimbap Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious and flavorful breakfast bowl inspired by the classic Korean dish, Bibimbap. This recipe combines warm rice, savory vegetables, and a runny egg for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup diced zucchini
– 1/4 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/4 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, scramble the eggs and set aside.
3. Heat the soy sauce and sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add the diced vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. To assemble the bowl, place the cooked rice at the bottom, followed by the scrambled eggs, vegetable mixture, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes
These crispy and savory pancakes are a staple in Chinese cuisine, often served as a snack or side dish. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these addictive treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup scallion greens, chopped
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the edges with a little water and sprinkle chopped scallions in the center.
7. Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape and press the edges together to seal.
8. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
9. Fry the pancakes for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
10. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Pho Ga (Chicken Noodle Soup)
Pho Ga, Vietnam’s popular chicken noodle soup, is a comforting and flavorful dish that warms the heart and soul. This recipe brings you a simplified version of this beloved Vietnamese classic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, onion, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the Pho Ga by placing cooked noodles in bowls, then adding sliced chicken and hot broth.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Jok (Rice Porridge with Pork)
A comforting and nourishing Thai staple, Thai Jok is a flavorful rice porridge made with pork, ginger, and aromatic spices. This simple recipe is a perfect remedy for a cold or flu.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of uncooked white rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1 pound of pork bones (you can use pork neck bones or ribs)
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the porridge has thickened slightly.
4. Add the pork bones, ginger, garlic, and vegetable oil to the pot. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the pork is tender.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Indian Masala Dosa with Coconut Chutney
Experience the flavors of India with this classic recipe for crispy dosas filled with spiced potatoes and served with a creamy coconut chutney.
Ingredients:
For the dosa batter:
– 2 cups rice flour
– 1 cup urad dal (split black gram)
– 1/4 teaspoon methi seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Water, as needed
For the potato filling:
– 2 large potatoes, boiled and mashed
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
For the coconut chutney:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Mix the dosa batter ingredients and soak for at least 4 hours.
2. Drain excess water from the batter and grind into a smooth paste.
3. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour in a ladle of batter.
4. Spread evenly to form a thin circle and cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
5. Flip and cook the other side.
6. Fill with potato mixture and serve with coconut chutney.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Japanese Onigiri (Rice Balls)
Onigiri, also known as rice balls, are a popular Japanese snack or lunchbox staple. This simple recipe teaches you how to shape and season cooked Japanese rice into tasty triangular treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fillings of your choice (e.g., salmon, tuna, pickled plum, or boiled egg)
– Sesame seeds or soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and cook according to package instructions using a 2:1 ratio of water to rice.
2. Allow the cooked rice to cool to room temperature.
3. Mix in salt and shape the rice into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Flatten each ball slightly into a triangle or oval shape.
5. Place your chosen filling in the center of the rice shape.
6. Fold the sides over the filling and press gently to seal.
7. Serve with soy sauce or sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Cooking Time: 20-30 minutes (includes cooking time for rice)
Korean Hotteok (Sweet Pancakes)
Hotteok, a sweet and savory Korean pancake, is a popular street food during the winter months. This recipe brings the warmth of Korea to your kitchen with its crispy exterior and fluffy interior, filled with cinnamon sugar and honey.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients: cinnamon sugar (mix equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon) and honey
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Gradually add in lukewarm water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Brush with vegetable oil and sprinkle cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the surface.
6. Fold the dough in half to form a triangle or a square shape, and press edges together to seal.
7. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes total
Chinese Egg Tarts
A classic Portuguese-influenced pastry from Macau, these egg tarts are a popular treat in China. With a flaky crust and a creamy egg custard filling, they’re a delightful dessert to enjoy.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
5. Spoon a small amount of egg custard mixture into each tart shell (see below for custard recipe).
6. Fold the crust over the filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with milk and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Chinese Egg Tarts!
Summary
Get your day started with a flavorful and authentic Asian breakfast! This article shares 18 delicious recipes from across the continent, including Steamed Pork Buns, Vietnamese Banh Mi Omelette, Korean Kimchi Fried Rice, and many more. From sweet treats like Japanese Tamagoyaki and Filipino Champorado to savory dishes like Chinese Congee with Century Egg and Thai Coconut Sticky Rice with Mango, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting bowl of noodles or a crispy breakfast pancake, these recipes are sure to inspire your morning routine.
Leave a Reply