Asian foods: 42 MUST-TRY dishes with savory taste from across the region

Asian food encompasses a vast and diverse culinary landscape, with each region offering a distinct array of flavors, techniques, and ingredients. Asian cuisine is a vital part of Asia travel, showcasing a rich tapestry of tastes that continues to captivate and enthrall food enthusiasts worldwide. These following 42 delectable dishes range from world-renowned delicacy to underrated treats will make your Asia trips more delightful.

1. Biryani (India) – one of the most delicious Asian foods

Biryani is a fragrant and flavorful Asian food originating from the Indian subcontinent. It combines basmati rice, meat (such as chicken, lamb, or beef), or vegetables with aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala.

The result is a tantalizing blend of flavors that permeate the rice, creating a mouthwatering experience. Biryani’s popularity stems from its perfect balance of spices and the heavenly aroma that entices taste buds across Asia.

2. Pho (Vietnam) – a world-renowned food in Southeast Asia

Pho, one of the best representatives of Southeast Asian food, is a popular dish that has gained international recognition for its aromatic flavors and health benefits. It consists of a flavorful broth infused with fragrant herbs and spices, thin rice noodles, and tender slices of beef or chicken with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and lime as garnish.

Pho is not only a delightful culinary experience but also embodies the essence of healthy Asian food, making it a must-try for Vietnam travel.

3. Sushi (Japan) – a delectable Asian food to enjoy once

Sushi, a popular Asian food, is a delicate and artful creation that embodies the essence of Japanese cuisine. It typically features vinegared rice combined with a variety of fresh ingredients, including raw or cooked seafood, vegetables, and sometimes tropical fruits.

The flavors of sushi are a harmonious blend of umami-rich fish, crisp vegetables, and the subtle tang of rice seasoned with soy sauce and wasabi. Served in sushi bars or Asian food restaurants, sushi’s exquisite presentation have made it a beloved staple of Asian cuisine worldwide.

4. Pad Thai (Thailand)

Pad Thai is an exemplary dish from Thailand, representing the epitome of spicy Asian food. This stir-fried noodle dish features a delectable combination of rice noodles, shrimp or chicken, bean sprouts, and tofu.

The flavors are a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory, enhanced by the aromatic blend of tamarind paste, fish sauce, lime, and crushed peanuts. With its fiery kick and tantalizing mix of flavors, Pad Thai is a must-try for enthusiasts of spicy food.

5. Hainanese chicken rice (Singapore)

Hainanese chicken rice is a classic among Asian food dishes. It features succulent poached chicken served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and infused with ginger.

The dish is accompanied by flavorful condiments like chili sauce, soy sauce, and garlic oil. The result is a harmonious blend of tender chicken, aromatic rice, and savory flavors that epitomizes the delectable simplicity and comfort of Asian cuisine.

6. Banh mi (Vietnam)

Banh mi, a type of Vietnamese sandwich, is a delicious example of affordable Asian food that packs a punch of flavors. It typically consists of a crispy baguette filled with a combination of ingredients like marinated meats (such as pork or chicken), pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a variety of sauces like mayonnaise or soy sauce.

The result is a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and crunchy elements that make Banh mi a street food favorite, both in Vietnam and beyond.

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7. Laksa (Malaysia) – a famous Asian food

Laksa, one of the iconic Asian food names, is a flavorful noodle soup that hails from Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia. This aromatic dish combines a rich and creamy coconut milk broth with spices like lemongrass, turmeric, and chili.

It features a delightful medley of ingredients such as rice noodles, shrimp, chicken, tofu, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. Laksa’s harmonious blend of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors makes it a beloved dish, showcasing the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions of the region.

8. Nasi goreng (Indonesia)

Nasi Goreng, a popular Indonesian dish, exemplifies the vibrancy of Asian food. This fried rice dish features a harmonious blend of ingredients such as rice, vegetables, meat, shrimp, and aromatic spices.

The flavors of Nasi Goreng are robust and savory, with a hint of sweetness and a delightful touch of heat. The combination of textures and the umami-rich taste make Nasi Goreng an irresistible and quintessential Asian culinary experience.

9. Miso soup (Japan)

Miso soup, a staple in East Asian cuisine, is a comforting and nourishing dish made from fermented soybean paste known as miso. Along with dashi, a flavorful broth made from bonito flakes or kombu seaweed, it features a medley of ingredients like tofu, scallions, and seaweed.

The umami-rich flavors of miso meld beautifully with the savory broth, creating a delicate balance that is both soothing and satisfying. Miso soup highlights the simplicity and depth of flavors that characterize East Asian food.

10. Vietnamese spring rolls

Vietnamese spring rolls, a tasty Asian food, are a delightful combination of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. These translucent rice paper rolls are typically filled with a variety of ingredients like shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli noodles.

The refreshing taste comes from the aromatic herbs such as mint, cilantro, and basil, along with the zingy dipping sauces like hoisin or fish sauce. With their light and crisp texture, Vietnamese spring rolls offer a harmonious blend of flavors that exemplify the deliciousness of Vietnamese cuisine.

To taste other Vietnamese iconic dishes, visit Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Da Nang, etc. Not only do you have the chance to taste the dishes at their home country, but you can also learn more about the ingredients and their origins.

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11. Tandoori chicken (India)

Tandoori chicken is a popular dish found in bustling Asian food places, particularly in Indian and Pakistani cuisines. This iconic dish features marinated chicken cooked in a tandoor, a traditional clay oven.

The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spices like turmeric, cumin, and chili powder, giving it a vibrant red color and a smoky, charred flavor. The combination of tender, juicy chicken with the aromatic spices makes Tandoori chicken a mouthwatering favorite among lovers of Asian cuisine.

12. Roti canai (Malaysia)

Roti Canai is a delightful Asian food in Malaysia. It consists of flaky and crispy flatbread made from a simple dough of flour, water, and ghee. The dough is stretched, folded, and cooked on a griddle, resulting in layers of deliciousness.

Roti Canai is typically enjoyed with flavorful curries or dhal, adding an explosion of spices and aromas to each bite. Its versatility, soft texture, and savory flavors make it a worthy entry in this list.

13. Bulgogi (Korea) – among the list of tasty Asian foods

Bulgogi, a popular late night Asian food, is a Korean dish known for its tender and juicy marinated beef. Thinly sliced beef is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings, creating a harmonious balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.

When grilled, the meat develops a delightful caramelized char, enhancing its succulent taste. Bulgogi’s delectable combination of flavors makes it a go-to choice for those seeking a satisfying late-night meal.

14. Gyoza (Japan)

Gyoza, a tasty Asian food, is a delicious dumpling filled with a delectable combination of ingredients. The filling typically consists of ground pork, cabbage, garlic, ginger, and various seasonings. These dumplings are then pan-fried until crispy on one side and steamed to perfection.

The result is a delightful mix of savory and juicy flavors, enhanced by the dipping sauce of soy sauce, vinegar, and chili oil. Gyoza’s irresistible taste and satisfying texture make it a popular appetizer or snack in Asian cuisine.

15. Crispy pata (Philippines)

Crispy Pata, a Filipino Asian dish, is known for its indulgent flavors and textures. It features a deep-fried pork leg, resulting in a crispy and crackling exterior while retaining tender meat inside.

The dish is seasoned with a mix of spices and served with a tangy soy-vinegar dip. The combination of the succulent meat, crispy skin, and bold flavors makes Crispy Pata an irresistible delight in the realm of Asian food.

16. Green curry (Thailand)

Thai green curry is a staple of Asian food, known for its vibrant flavors and aromatic ingredients. This delectable dish typically features a rich and creamy coconut milk base, infused with fragrant Thai green curry paste, which includes ingredients like green chilies, lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves.

It is commonly prepared with a variety of vegetables, meat, or seafood, creating a harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors that make Thai green curry a fan favorite choice in Asian cuisine.

17. Dumplings (China) – a well-known food in East Asia

China dumplings are delightful parcels filled with a combination of ingredients. The dumpling wrappers are typically made from wheat flour and water, while the fillings can consist of ground meat (such as pork or chicken), vegetables, and aromatic seasonings.

The flavors of this Asian food dish are diverse and can range from savory and umami-rich to subtly sweet, depending on the filling and accompanying dipping sauces. These bite-sized delights offer a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that make them a popular choice in Chinese cuisine and beyond.

18. Ramen (Japan)

Ramen is a frequently sought-after dish originating from Japan. This soul-soothing noodle soup is characterized by wheat noodles, savory broth, and an assortment of toppings.

From rich and creamy tonkotsu to tangy and refreshing shoyu, the flavors of ramen vary widely depending on the broth base. Toppings like tender chashu pork, nori seaweed, soft-boiled eggs, and scallions add depth and texture to this iconic dish, making ramen a cherished favorite among lovers of Asian food.

19. Shawarma (Middle East)

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern dish that has gained immense popularity as an Asian food. It features thinly sliced marinated meat (often chicken or lamb) that is slow-roasted on a vertical spit, resulting in tender and succulent strips.

The meat is then wrapped in a warm flatbread and garnished with a variety of flavorful ingredients like tahini sauce, pickled vegetables, and aromatic spices. Shawarma offers a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and aromatic flavors, making it an up-and-coming choice in the diverse tapestry of Asian cuisine.

20. Tom yum soup (Thailand)

Tom Yum Soup, a popular dish in Thai cuisine, exemplifies the bold and vibrant flavors found in many types of Asian food. This aromatic soup combines a harmonious blend of ingredients such as lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers, resulting in a tantalizing balance of sweet, sour, and spicy flavors.

The protein of this soup can be from shrimp or mushrooms. Tom Yum Soup showcases the complexity and depth that make it an undeniable staple of Asian cuisine.

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21. Szechuan chicken (China)

Szechuan chicken is very popular in all of Asian food, particularly from the Szechuan region of China. It features tender chicken pieces stir-fried with garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns.

The dish is known for its fiery and numbing flavors, thanks to the liberal use of chili peppers and the distinct numbing sensation provided by Szechuan peppercorns. The result is a mouthwatering balance of heat, spice, and aromatic flavors that make Szechuan chicken an iconic Chinese food dish.

22. Baklava (Middle East)

Baklava, a beloved central Asian food, is a sweet pastry consisting of layers of phyllo dough, butter, and a delectable mixture of nuts like pistachios or walnuts. Its flavors are further enhanced with the addition of aromatic spices such as cinnamon and cardamom.

The result is a delicate, flaky treat soaked in a sweet syrup, offering a harmonious balance of textures and a burst of irresistible sweetness.

23. Bibimbap (Korea)

Bibimbap, a popular Korean dish, showcases the essence of Asian food with its vibrant colors, textures, and flavors. It features a medley of sautéed vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, and spinach, along with marinated beef or tofu, all served over a bed of rice.

The dish is completed with a spicy gochujang sauce, creating a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

24. Satay (Indonesia)

Satay is a flavorful Asian food known for its delectable combination of flavors. This grilled dish typically features skewered and marinated meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork, served with a rich peanut sauce.

The tender and smoky meat, combined with the aromatic spices and the creamy sweetness of the peanut sauce, creates a mouthwatering experience that encapsulates the essence of street food culture in Southeast Asia.

25. Baozi (China) – one of the most exotic foods in Asia

Baozi, a wholesome dish of Asian food, are steamed or baked buns filled with a variety of ingredients. The fluffy dough encases flavorful fillings such as pork, beef, vegetables, or even sweet custard.

Bursting with umami, these delightful buns offer a combination of soft and chewy textures, complemented by the savory and aromatic flavors that make them a popular Asian food choice.

26. Katsu curry (Japan)

Katsu curry is one of the most notable contributions of Japanese cuisine to Asian food. It features breaded and deep-fried meat, typically pork or chicken, served with a rich and flavorful curry sauce.

The curry combines aromatic spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander with onions, garlic, and ginger, creating a harmonious blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The crispy meat cutlet and the robust curry sauce make Katsu curry a delightful and comforting choice for Asian food enthusiasts.

27. Sayur asem (Indonesia)

Sayur Asem, a traditional Asian food from Indonesia, boasts a delightful blend of flavors and ingredients. Its tangy taste comes from tamarind, which is balanced with palm sugar’s sweetness.

The soup includes vegetables like chayote, corn, and beans, enhancing its crunch and freshness. Fragrant lemongrass, galangal, and bay leaves infuse the broth with aromatic notes.

28. Char kway teow (Singapore)

Char Kway Teow is an Asian food with many variations. This stir-fried noodle dish features flat rice noodles, prawns, Chinese sausages, bean sprouts, and eggs, all cooked in a flavorful blend of soy sauce and other seasonings.

The result is a harmonious fusion of sweet, savory, and slightly smoky flavors that make Char Kway Teow special.

29. Nasi lemak (Malaysia)

Nasi lemak is a delicious Malaysian representation of Asian food. It features fragrant rice cooked in coconut milk, accompanied by flavorful ingredients such as anchovies, peanuts, cucumber, and a spicy sambal sauce.

The combination of creamy coconut rice, crunchy condiments, and bold flavors creates a harmonious and satisfying taste experience that epitomizes the diverse and vibrant flavors found in Asian food.

30. Adobo (Philippines)

Adobo is a popular Filipino dish known for its simplicity and bold flavors. It typically consists of meat (commonly pork or chicken) marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then braised until tender.

The resulting dish boasts a harmonious blend of tanginess from the vinegar, savory richness from the soy sauce, and the aromatic punch of garlic, making Adobo an outstanding Asian food.

31. Naan (India) – one of the best traditional Asian foods

Naan, an extremely well-known south Asian food, is a soft and fluffy flatbread known for its versatility and delicious flavor. Made with simple ingredients like flour, yeast, yogurt, and sometimes ghee, it is traditionally baked in a tandoor oven.

It is warm and pillowy with a slight tang from the yogurt and a subtle richness from the ghee, making it the perfect accompaniment to savor the vibrant flavors of other Asian food.

32. Wonton noodles (China)

Wonton noodles are one of the go-to Asian food breakfast items, featuring thin egg noodles served in a flavorful broth accompanied by wontons. 

The dish showcases a harmonious blend of ingredients such as succulent pork or shrimp-filled wontons, tender noodles, and fragrant herbs. The savory broth, often seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other spices, infuses the dish with a comforting and satisfying flavor profile.

33. Tom kha gai (Thailand)

Tom Kha Gai is a popular Thai soup known for its creamy and tangy flavors. The dish features a harmonious blend of ingredients, including coconut milk, galangal (Thai ginger), lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and chicken.

The result is a rich and fragrant broth with a hint of sweetness from the coconut milk, balanced by the zesty and aromatic notes of the herbs and spices.

34. Tteokbokki (Korea)

Tteokbokki, a world popular Korean street food, features chewy rice cakes cooked in a spicy gochujang (red chili paste) sauce. Along with rice cakes, it often includes fish cakes, cabbage, and scallions.

The dish delivers a bold combination of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors, creating a delightfully balanced Asian food that keeps you coming back for more.

35. Mala hot pot (China)

Mala hot pot is a famous Chinese dish that features a unique blend of spices and ingredients. The hot pot broth is infused with Szechuan peppercorns and dried chili peppers, creating a numbing and spicy flavor.

Common ingredients include thinly sliced meats, vegetables, tofu, and mushrooms, which soak up the bold and aromatic broth, resulting in a satisfying and fiery Asian food experience.

36. Udon noodles (Japan)

Udon noodles, a staple of Japanese cuisine, are thick wheat noodles known for their chewy texture. Made with simple ingredients like wheat flour, water, and salt, udon noodles are a versatile Asian food and can be paired with a variety of broths and toppings.

The flavors range from light and savory in a clear dashi broth to rich and flavorful in a soy-based broth, offering a delightful balance of umami and freshness.

37. Balut (Philippines) – an unmissable street Asian food

Balut is a unique and somewhat controversial Filipino delicacy. It consists of a developing duck embryo boiled and eaten in its shell.

The dish is known for its textural complexity, as it combines the firmness of a cooked egg white with the richness of a partially formed duck fetus. Balut offers a savory and slightly gamey flavor, making it a memorable and adventurous culinary experience.

38. Chapli kebab (Pakistan)

Chapli kebab is an Asian food from Pakistan known for its distinct flavors. The kebabs are made from ground meat, typically beef or lamb, combined with a mixture of spices like coriander, cumin, and chili powder.

Onions, tomatoes, and fresh herbs such as mint and cilantro are also added for enhanced taste. The kebabs are cooked until charred on the outside, resulting in a smoky and savory flavor with a hint of spiciness.

39. Phat kaphrao (Thailand)

Phat Kaphrao, also known as Thai basil stir-fry, features a vibrant blend of ingredients and flavors. This aromatic Asian food typically combines minced meat (such as chicken, pork, or beef) with Thai basil, garlic, chili peppers, and soy sauce.

Those flavors combine and make a mouthwatering stir-fry bursting with savory, spicy, and herbal notes that turn it a favorite in Thai cuisine.

40. Soto ayam (Indonesia)

Soto Ayam is an Indonesian chicken soup known for its vibrant flavors. Tender chicken pieces are cooked in a fragrant broth, infused with aromatic spices like turmeric, lemongrass, and galangal.

The soup is further enhanced with ingredients like bean sprouts, boiled eggs, and rice noodles, creating a harmonious blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors. Soto Ayam is often served with a side of lime, chili sauce, and fried shallots for an extra burst of taste.

41. Samosas (India) – a mouthwatering South Asian food

Samosas are a popular appetizer or snack in South Asian cuisine. These triangular pastries are typically filled with a savory mixture of potatoes, peas, and aromatic spices such as cumin, coriander, and garam masala.

Aromatics like ginger, garlic, and chili are also a part of the recipe, resulting in a delightful combination of spiciness and earthy richness. When deep-fried to a golden crisp, samosas offer a tantalizing blend of textures and flavors that are enjoyed across the globe.

42. Khao soi (Thailand)

Khao Soi features a harmonious blend of ingredients and flavors. The dish typically includes egg noodles in a creamy coconut curry broth, accompanied by tender braised meat (commonly chicken or beef).

It is garnished with crispy fried noodles, shallots, fresh herbs, and lime. The dish is a delightful combination of spicy, tangy, and creamy flavors that make Khao Soi a true Thai culinary gem.

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Exploring the vast array of Asian food is like embarking on a gastronomic adventure. From the aromatic Biryani to the appetizing Khao Soi and everything in between, the flavors of Asia never fail to captivate the taste buds. Each dish showcases a unique combination of ingredients, spices, and techniques, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Whether you are a fan of fiery curries, delicate sushi, or vibrant street food, the diverse and delectable world of Asian cuisine is a culinary journey that is bound to leave you craving more.

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