Asia is a big place with many countries. Each country has its own food. If you love to eat, you will love Asia. There are so many flavors and dishes to try. Here are the 30 best dishes to try in Asia. Each one is tasty and special. Let’s get started!
1. Sushi (Japan)
Sushi is one of the most famous dishes from Japan. It is made with vinegared rice. The rice is sticky and soft. Then, you add fresh fish on top. There are many types of sushi. Nigiri is a piece of fish on rice. Sashimi is just slices of fish. You can also find rolls with many ingredients. People love sushi for its fresh taste. You should eat sushi with soy sauce and wasabi. Wasabi is very spicy, so use a little!
2. Pad Thai (Thailand)
Pad Thai is a tasty dish from Thailand. It is made with rice noodles. The noodles are stir-fried with eggs, tofu, or shrimp. It has a sweet and salty taste. You will also find peanuts on top. Pad Thai is often served with lime. The lime adds a nice tangy flavor. You can get Pad Thai at street stalls or restaurants. It is a favorite for many people!
3. Dumplings (China)
Dumplings are a popular food in China. They can be steamed, boiled, or fried. Dumplings can be filled with many things. Common fillings include pork, chicken, or vegetables. They are small and easy to eat. You dip dumplings in soy sauce for extra flavor. Dumplings are great for sharing with friends or family.
4. Biryani (India)
Biryani is a flavorful rice dish from India. It is made with fragrant basmati rice and spices. You can add chicken, lamb, or vegetables. Each region in India has its own biryani style. Some are spicy, while others are mild. The meat is cooked with the rice for a delicious taste. Biryani is often served with yogurt or raita. This cools down the spice and adds creaminess. It is a perfect meal for any occasion.
5. Pho (Vietnam)
Pho is a famous soup from Vietnam. It is made with broth, rice noodles, and meat. The most common meat is beef, but you can also find chicken pho. The broth is simmered for hours. This makes it rich and full of flavor. Pho is served with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime. You can customize it to your taste. It is a comforting dish that many people enjoy.
6. Ramen (Japan)
Ramen is another popular noodle dish from Japan. It comes in many flavors, like miso, shoyu, and tonkotsu. The noodles are served in a hot broth. Ramen often has toppings like soft-boiled eggs, green onions, and nori (seaweed). Each region in Japan has its own special ramen style. It is a warming meal, perfect for cold days.
7. Kimchi (South Korea)
Kimchi is a famous dish in South Korea. It is made from fermented vegetables, usually napa cabbage or radishes. The vegetables are mixed with spices, garlic, and chili pepper. Kimchi is spicy and tangy. It is served as a side dish with almost every meal in Korea. You can also use kimchi in other dishes, like fried rice or stews. It is healthy and full of flavor!
8. Laksa (Malaysia/Singapore)
Laksa is a spicy noodle soup from Malaysia and Singapore. It has a creamy coconut milk base. The soup is often filled with prawns, chicken, or tofu. Laksa has a strong flavor from the spices and herbs. It is usually served with bean sprouts and boiled eggs. Laksa is comforting and satisfying, especially on rainy days.
9. Satay (Indonesia/Malaysia)
Satay is a dish made of marinated meat skewers. The meat is grilled over a fire. You can find satay made with chicken, beef, or lamb. It is often served with a peanut sauce. The sauce is sweet and spicy. Satay is a popular street food and a great snack. It is perfect for sharing with friends!
10. Massaman Curry (Thailand)
Massaman curry is a rich and slightly sweet curry from Thailand. It is made with coconut milk, potatoes, and meat, usually beef or chicken. The curry has a unique flavor from the spices. It is often served with rice. Massaman curry is comforting and a favorite among many people.
11. Char Kway Teow (Malaysia)
Char kway teow is a stir-fried flat noodle dish from Malaysia. It is made with rice noodles, shrimp, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts. The dish is cooked in a hot wok. This gives it a smoky flavor. Char kway teow is flavorful and filling. It is a popular choice for lunch or dinner.
12. Nasi Lemak (Malaysia)
Nasi lemak is considered the national dish of Malaysia. It consists of rice cooked in coconut milk. The rice is served with sambal, fried anchovies, peanuts, and boiled eggs. Some people add chicken or beef rendang too. Nasi lemak is a hearty and delicious meal. It is often eaten for breakfast but is good at any time.
13. Tom Yum Goong (Thailand)
Tom Yum Goong is a spicy and sour shrimp soup. The soup is made with fresh herbs like lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. It has a clear broth and is packed with flavor. You can find Tom Yum Goong in many Thai restaurants. It is perfect for those who love spicy food.
14. Hainanese Chicken Rice (Singapore)
Hainanese chicken rice is a simple yet delicious dish from Singapore. It features poached chicken served with fragrant rice. The rice is cooked in chicken broth, making it tasty. It is served with chili sauce and soy sauce. This dish is loved by many and is a must-try in Singapore.
15. Sushi Burrito (Japan/USA)
Sushi burrito is a fun twist on traditional sushi. It combines sushi ingredients in a large seaweed wrap. You can fill it with rice, fish, avocado, and vegetables. It is portable and perfect for eating on the go. This dish is popular in many cities and offers a new way to enjoy sushi.
16. Katsu Curry (Japan)
Katsu curry is a comforting dish from Japan. It features breaded and fried meat, usually pork or chicken. The meat is served with a rich curry sauce and rice. Katsu curry is hearty and filling. It is a popular meal for lunch or dinner.
17. Tandoori Chicken (India)
Tandoori chicken is a famous dish from India. The chicken is marinated in yogurt and spices. It is then cooked in a tandoor, which is a clay oven. This gives the chicken a smoky flavor. Tandoori chicken is often served with naan bread and salad. It is a must-try for spice lovers!
18. Chaat (India)
Chaat is a popular street food in India. It consists of a mix of crispy, spicy, and tangy ingredients. Common types include pani puri, bhel puri, and aloo chaat. Each bite is full of flavor and texture. Chaat is often enjoyed as a snack or appetizer. It is a fun and tasty way to experience Indian street food.
19. Banh Mi (Vietnam)
Banh Mi is a Vietnamese sandwich that is very popular. It is made with a crispy baguette filled with meat, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. You can find many variations, like grilled pork or chicken. Banh Mi is a great option for a quick and delicious lunch.
20. Beef Rendang (Indonesia)
Beef rendang is a slow-cooked beef curry from Indonesia. The meat is cooked with spices and coconut milk until it is tender. It has a rich and complex flavor. Rendang is often served with rice. It is a favorite dish for special occasions and family gatherings.
21. Cendol (Malaysia)
Cendol is a refreshing dessert from Malaysia. It consists of green rice flour jelly, coconut milk, and palm sugar. Cendol is sweet and perfect for hot weather. You can find it at many dessert stalls. It is a delightful treat to cool you down!
22. Peking Duck (China)
Peking duck is a famous dish from Beijing, China. It is known for its crispy skin and tender meat. The duck is served with pancakes, hoisin sauce, and sliced cucumber. You wrap the duck in the pancake and enjoy the flavors together. Peking duck is a must-try for anyone visiting China.
23. Gyoza (Japan)
Gyoza are Japanese dumplings that are very popular. They are filled with ground meat and vegetables. You can choose to steam or pan-fry them. Gyoza are usually served with soy sauce for dipping. They make a great appetizer or snack.
24. Zha Jiang Mian (China)
Zha jiang mian is a noodle dish that is easy to make and very tasty. It features noodles topped with a savory sauce made from fermented soybeans and ground meat. It is simple but delicious. Zha jiang mian is a comfort food for many.
25. Khao Soi (Thailand)
Khao soi is a northern Thai curry noodle soup. It has both crispy and soft noodles, which gives it a unique texture. The soup is made with coconut milk and curry spices. Khao soi is usually served with pickled vegetables and lime. It is a flavorful dish that many love.
26. Buko Pandan (Philippines)
Buko pandan is a sweet dessert from the Philippines. It is made with young coconut, pandan-flavored jelly, and sweetened cream. It is refreshing and delicious. Buko pandan is often served at parties and celebrations. It is a treat you should not miss!
27. Pani Puri (India)
Pani puri is a popular street food in India. It consists of hollow crispy puris filled with spicy tamarind water, chickpeas, and potatoes. Each bite is a burst of flavor. Pani puri is loved by many for its tangy and spicy taste. It is a fun food to eat with friends.
28. Mango Sticky Rice (Thailand)
Mango sticky rice is a popular dessert in Thailand. It is made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, and ripe mango. The sweetness of the mango pairs perfectly with the creamy coconut rice. This dessert is best enjoyed fresh and is a favorite among tourists and locals.
29. Jollof Rice (West Africa)
Jollof rice is a well-loved dish in West Africa. It is made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices. The dish is cooked in one pot, which makes it flavorful. You can serve it with chicken or fish. Jollof rice is often enjoyed at parties and celebrations.
30. Roti Canai (Malaysia)
Roti canai is a flaky flatbread from Malaysia. It is often served with curry for dipping. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Roti canai is a popular breakfast or snack food. It is simple but delicious.
Conclusion
Asia is home to so many delicious dishes. Each country offers unique flavors and ingredients. Whether you enjoy noodles, rice, or dumplings, there is something for everyone. Trying these 30 best dishes to try in Asia is a wonderful experience. You will love exploring the different tastes. So, when you travel to Asia, make sure to taste as much as you can! Happy eating!
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Ron Hoekstra, a Dutch designer based in Taiwan, combines his passion for creativity with a love of travel. Inspired by his adventures, he launched a travel blog to share his experiences and insights. Professionally, he excels as a web designer and SEO expert, blending technical expertise with artistic vision to create impactful digital projects.
