Are you a busy cook looking for quick and delicious meal ideas inspired by Asian cuisine? Look no further! The Instant Pot is an incredible tool that can help you whip up flavorful dishes in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine the convenience of pressure cooking with the bold flavors of Asia.
From classic beef and broccoli to spicy Korean beef, these recipes are perfect for busy cooks who want to make a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of chicken, pork, tofu, or seafood, there’s something on this list for everyone. So let’s dive in and explore the world of Asian-inspired Instant Pot cooking!
Instant Pot Beef and Broccoli
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for a reason – tender beef and crisp broccoli in a savory sauce, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), garlic powder, beef broth, water, salt, and pepper.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Asian-Inspired Instant Pot Chicken Curry
Asian-Inspired Instant Pot Chicken Curry: A flavorful and aromatic curry made with chicken, vegetables, and a blend of Asian-inspired spices, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they start to brown (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, coconut milk, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
5. Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to “SEALING”.
6. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
8. Open the lid and stir in some cilantro for garnish. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes (8 minutes cooking + 5 minutes natural release)
Quick Instant Pot Pad Thai
In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious and authentic-tasting Pad Thai dish using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken or tofu; stir to combine.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, soy sauce, and honey. Pour into the pot.
5. Add rice noodles; stir to combine.
6. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” for 2 minutes at high pressure.
7. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening.
Cooking Time: 7-8 minutes
Instant Pot Teriyaki Salmon
This recipe yields a flavorful and tender salmon dish with a rich teriyaki sauce, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp water
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, water, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
3. Place the salmon fillets in a single layer at the bottom of the pot.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Press the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and set the cooking time to 8 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 13 minutes
Spicy Instant Pot Korean Beef
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with this quick and easy recipe that combines tender beef, spicy gochujang sauce, and savory soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, black pepper, and brown sugar.
6. Pour the sauce mixture over the beef and onions in the Instant Pot.
7. Add the beef broth and stir to combine.
8. Close the lid and set the valve to “SEALING”. Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes.
9. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
10. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Instant Pot Vietnamese Pho
Satisfy your cravings with this quick and delicious Instant Pot recipe that captures the essence of traditional Vietnamese Pho. This comforting noodle soup is flavored with aromatic spices, beef broth, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (or oxtail or beef chuck)
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 cup rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro)
– Lime wedges
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and brown the beef bones for 5 minutes.
2. Add fish sauce, soy sauce, garlic, onion, star anise, cinnamon stick, cumin, coriander, broth, water, and sugar. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 30 minutes.
4. Quick-release pressure.
5. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble Pho bowls with noodles, beef broth, and garnish with fresh herbs and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 35 minutes
Easy Instant Pot Mongolian Chicken
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional Chinese stir-fry, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With the help of your Instant Pot, you can achieve tender and juicy chicken with a rich Mongolian-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp Mongolian chili flakes (or substitute with red pepper flakes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on your Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, beef broth, and chili flakes. Stir to combine.
3. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
4. Quick-release any remaining pressure, then open the lid. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with green onions, if desired. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instant Pot Thai Green Curry with Vegetables
Quickly cook a flavorful Thai green curry with tender vegetables using your Instant Pot. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, zucchini)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables; cook until tender (3-4 minutes).
3. Add curry paste and stir to combine.
4. Pour in coconut milk and broth; stir well.
5. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
6. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and cook at high pressure for 5 minutes.
7. Let pressure release naturally (10 minutes).
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Instant Pot Pork
This recipe combines the tenderizing power of an Instant Pot with the tangy flavors of sweet and sour sauce, resulting in a delicious and easy-to-make pork dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder or butt
– 1/4 cup sweet and sour sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat until shimmering.
2. Add the pork shoulder and cook for 5 minutes, browning on all sides.
3. Add the sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Release any remaining pressure and open the lid. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Sesame Ginger Noodles
This recipe combines the flavors of sesame oil, ginger, and garlic with al dente noodles for a delicious and nutritious meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup instant pot noodles (rice-based)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the sesame oil until shimmering.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds.
3. Add the noodles, water, soy sauce, and garlic. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Press “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” and set the cooking time to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt to taste, then garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including pressure release)
Asian-Style Instant Pot Rice Bowl
This recipe is a quick and easy meal solution that combines the flavors of Asia with the convenience of an Instant Pot. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a delicious and nutritious rice bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt to taste
– Optional: sliced scallions, diced veggies (e.g. carrots, bell peppers), cooked chicken or tofu for added protein
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and add it to the Instant Pot.
2. Add water, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, cumin, turmeric powder, and salt to the pot.
3. Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to “sealing”.
4. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural release.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve in a bowl. Add your preferred toppings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16 minutes
Instant Pot Honey Garlic Shrimp
This recipe is a sweet and savory twist on traditional shrimp dishes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the help of your Instant Pot, you’ll have succulent shrimp in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the olive oil until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, honey, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 2 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Open the lid and serve the shrimp hot, garnished with chopped green onions or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Flavorful Instant Pot Ramen Soup
Elevate your instant ramen game with this hearty and flavorful soup that’s ready in under an hour! This recipe adds tender vegetables, savory spices, and a rich broth to the classic college dorm staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 package instant ramen noodles
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, mushrooms)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken, pork, or shrimp for added protein
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the sesame oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the broth, soy sauce, and add the mixed vegetables.
5. Stir in the instant ramen noodles.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10-12 minutes.
7. Let the pressure release naturally before opening the lid.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Instant Pot General Tso’s Chicken
This recipe brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right to your doorstep with tender chicken, tangy sauce, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup General Tso’s sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the vegetable oil.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the General Tso’s sauce, honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, followed by a 5-minute natural release.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Asian-Inspired Instant Pot Dumplings
Experience the comforting warmth of traditional Asian dumplings with a modern twist using your Instant Pot! This recipe yields tender, flavorful dumplings filled with a savory pork and vegetable mixture.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of 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 large 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 two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot, followed by the dumplings (do not overcrowd).
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes, then quick-release.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes (including release)
Instant Pot Coconut Curry Lentils
This flavorful and nutritious recipe combines the comfort of lentils with the warmth of coconut curry, perfect for a chilly evening. The Instant Pot makes quick work of cooking these tender legumes to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and cook onion until softened.
2. Add garlic, curry powder, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, water, and coconut milk; stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 20 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including pressure release)
Quick Instant Pot Stir-Fry with Tofu
This recipe is a flavorful and speedy stir-fry that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With the Instant Pot, you can cook the ingredients to perfection in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
3. Add the tofu, bell peppers, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “Manual” mode at high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions (if desired).
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Instant Pot Pineapple Fried Rice
Elevate your fried rice game with the sweetness of pineapple and the convenience of Instant Pot! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add mixed veggies, pineapple, and cooked rice. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Push “Manual” mode and set to 5 minutes at high pressure.
5. Quick-release steam and open the lid.
6. Pour in beaten eggs and stir-fry until cooked through.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Asian-Style Instant Pot Braised Short Ribs
A rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal or special occasion. This recipe uses the Instant Pot to create tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs in a savory Asian-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup sake (or dry sherry)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil until shimmering.
2. Brown the short ribs in batches, then set aside.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, and sesame oil. Stir to combine.
5. Return the short ribs to the Instant Pot and add enough water to cover them.
6. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 30 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes.
7. Serve with steamed bok choy or broccoli, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Instant Pot Miso Soup with Tofu
This classic Japanese-inspired soup is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors. With the help of your Instant Pot, you can have a delicious and nutritious bowl in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the sesame oil.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the tofu and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth, miso paste, and ginger. Stir to combine.
5. Close the lid and set the valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 10 minutes.
6. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the flavors of Asia with these quick and easy Instant Pot recipes. Busy cooks will love the convenience of cooking a variety of dishes in just minutes, from classic beef and broccoli to spicy Korean beef and rich coconut curry lentils. Other mouthwatering options include pad Thai, teriyaki salmon, Mongolian chicken, and more. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, or sour, these recipes are sure to please. Try one today and experience the bold flavors of Asia from the comfort of your own kitchen!
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