I Cooked 29 Asian Recipes And Got More Confident Each Time

ByMandy Applegate

By the time 29 Asian creations made it from stove to plate, the whole operation felt less like guesswork and more like muscle memory. Mistakes shrank, confidence expanded, and nobody went hungry. Even the family cat started showing up at mealtime.

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

A bowl of white rice topped with glazed chicken and garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.
Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Changing up my dinner routine with this one made cooking less stressful. Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe keeps meals simple but brings big flavor to the table, always making me want seconds. It’s a crowd-pleaser, especially when paired with a quick side.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Thai Yellow Curry

Thai Yellow Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.
Thai Yellow Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you want a bowl that’s rich and hits a bit differently from what you usually make, it comes through every time. Every spoonful of Thai Yellow Curry has a warm and mild kick that builds up confidence for trying new bold flavors. It’s nice for sharing around the table or just filling your bowl on a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

A colorful salad with shredded carrots, zucchini, chicken, orange slices, and sesame seeds on a brown plate, garnished with fresh herbs.
Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Need a quick boost in the kitchen? This came through. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken has a tangy kick that stands out even on a plain night, making regular meals seem like something special. Easy to pull together, it encouraged me to try similar dishes I’d never made before.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Asian Style Pork Chops

Close-up of sliced grilled pork belly garnished with sesame seeds and green chili, served on a bed of kale.
Asian Style Pork Chops. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Trying something new with cuts of meat gave me confidence fast. Asian Style Pork Chops offer a fresh twist by blending simple flavors and tenderness without fuss. The results surprised everyone at the table, making me a bit more adventurous each time. Friends still ask about when I’ll make these pork chops again.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

Kimchi

A bowl of spicy, pickled kimchi cabbage on a light-colored surface.
Kimchi. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Kimchi gave me crunchy bites with a kick, perfect for adding color or a punch to plain meals. It’s good for snacking or adding to rice, so I started tossing it in way more dishes. Now, I keep a jar around because I trust my skills with every new batch.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Chickpea Curry

Bowl of chickpea stew with spinach, potatoes, tomatoes, and topped with fresh cilantro.
Chickpea Curry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Finding a meatless dish that still feels full and bold changed my weeknight plans. Chickpea Curry is packed with flavor and keeps you coming back after the first spoonful. It’s easy to serve plain or add your own twist when you’re in the mood to experiment. Each bowl I made gave me one less excuse to order out.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Korean Burgers

Close-up of a hamburger with a sesame seed bun, beef patty, green onions, and rich brown sauce.
Korean Burgers. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Burgers got a much-needed update in my kitchen with this easy swap. Korean Burgers have a little kick and a unique bite, making me more curious about cross-culture meals. Setting them out for dinner made everyone ask about the secret ingredient.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Tonkotsu Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, a halved boiled egg, sliced meat, green leafy vegetables, and mushrooms in broth.
Tonkotsu Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Making soup more exciting was easier than expected with this one-bowl meal. Tonkotsu Ramen delivers a deep, rich broth that makes takeout seem unnecessary. The homemade version helped me nail textures I never thought I’d get right at home. It quickly became the go-to pick when anyone craved noodles.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

A bowl of vegetable curry with leafy greens, chunks of squash, diced tomatoes, peanuts, and cilantro, served with a spoon.
Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!). Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A quick dish that’s light, nutty, and just different enough without being hard. Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!) is the reason I got brave around new spices and combos for weekday dinner. It mixes smooth flavor with a little crunch, making me want to look for more Thai recipes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)

Bang Bang Shrimp

A bowl of rice topped with shrimp in a creamy sauce, garnished with cucumber slices, lime wedge, cilantro, and sliced green onions.
Bang Bang Shrimp. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

One try at this shrimp dish made everyone want to eat at home rather than go to a restaurant. Bang Bang Shrimp gives each bite a pop, keeping things lively at the table. It’s now my go-to when I want to impress but also keep things easy. Every success with this one helped clear away nerves about frying at home.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Easy Chow Mein

A close-up view of a plate of chow mein stir-fried noodles with vegetables and black sesame seeds, with chopsticks visibly picking up a portion.
Easy Chow Mein. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Stir-fried noodles are now part of more meals after this easy win. Easy Chow Mein brings a quick, fun solution to weeknight dinners without much cleanup. Everyone can add extras or enjoy it plain, so it doesn’t get boring. Now I always have noodles waiting for when I need a kitchen boost.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Sweet chili sauce in a small bowl on a light green cloth.
Thai Sweet Chili Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Leveling up leftovers got easier as soon as I nailed this quick sauce. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce works for dipping, drizzling, or even mixing into bowls, making each meal a bit brighter. Once I started making it, I never looked for store-bought again. My friends always ask for some on the side, so I keep a jar nearby.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Tofu Fried Rice

A bowl of fried rice with grilled tofu, diced carrots, peas, chopped green onions, and a drizzle of dark sauce, served on a red cloth.
Tofu Fried Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Meatless meals felt so simple after whipping up this easy fried rice. Tofu Fried Rice makes a balanced bowl with both crunch and soft bits, proving that plant-based food can be interesting. After eating this for lunch, I didn’t miss meat at all. It gave me the push to start adding tofu to more dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Not all ramen has to be plain or boring, as this recipe proved real quick. Birria Ramen mashes up deep broth and tender meat, helping me play around with new flavor combos confidently. It was fun watching the family light up after the first bowl. I’ll keep making it whenever plain noodles just don’t excite me.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Korean Corn Dogs

Several breaded and fried corn dogs on sticks, drizzled with mustard and ketchup, placed on white crumpled paper.
Korean Corn Dogs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Switching out a classic hot dog for this version brought at-home snacking up a notch. Korean Corn Dogs are fun to make and have a great chewy crunch, making them perfect for family movie nights. Everyone wants their own twist after trying the first one. They broke my fear of trying new street food at home.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs

Chicken Tempura

Plate of batter-fried fritters with a bowl of red dipping sauce on a white plate, viewed from above.
Chicken Tempura. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Crisp coating just right was a small win that built my kitchen courage. Chicken Tempura comes out light, airy, and perfect for dipping, making any meal feel a little special. It’s the one my siblings always request on busy nights. After making it, I was willing to try other tempura recipes without worry.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Spicy Udon Noodles

Close-up of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and chopped red peppers, garnished with sesame seeds. Chopsticks are picking up some noodles.
Spicy Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When I wanted an easy noodle bowl with a little fire, this was the one I reached for. Spicy Udon Noodles pack in heat and comfort with each bite, making even short dinners more exciting. They cut through a long week without a huge mess to clean up after. After that, I started enjoying spicier foods instead of sticking to mild ones.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Shrimp Tempura Roll

Close-up of sushi rolls with avocado, cucumber, and rice, topped with sesame seeds and a drizzle of spicy mayo on a beige plate.
Shrimp Tempura Roll. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sushi at home sounded too hard until I rolled up this simple option. Shrimp Tempura Roll mixes fresh flavors and crunchy texture, cutting out any stress about making it perfect. Even the first tries came out just right for sharing. Now sushi night happens at my place way more often.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura Roll

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Thai chicken skewers topped with a creamy sauce and garnished with chopped herbs and peanuts, served over a bed of white rice.
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Putting dinner on a stick took out the guesswork and made flavors stand out. Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are quick to grill and easy to share—a good fit for picnics or lunch at home. Watching everyone grab seconds made me feel like trying new marinades next. One meal boosted my grilling skills fast.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Stir fry is one of the easiest ways to work up some confidence in the kitchen. Every plate of Vegetable Stir Fry is different since you use what you have, which means meals are never boring. It’s quick to toss together and fast to clean up which makes it good for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

Massaman Curry

A creamy shrimp curry with peppers, chopped nuts, sliced green onions, red chili slices, and lime wedges. Metal spoon submerged in the dish.
Massaman Curry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Trying this dish at home brought new flavors into my kitchen without feeling lost. Massaman Curry is hearty and rich, perfect for dipping or piling over rice, pushing me to try more homemade curries. The flavors stick with you but each time feels easier than before. After this, no curry at a restaurant feels out of reach.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheap dinner doesn’t have to be boring—this version made me believe it. Elevated Ramen Noodles use simple tricks to bring quick comfort to a busy night, without fuss or special skills. You get big bowls with lots of texture and flavor that make instant noodles more interesting.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Sweet and Sour Chicken

Close-up of sweet and sour chicken with bell peppers and pineapple chunks in a thick sauce.
Sweet and Sour Chicken. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Making this dish helped me skip takeout several nights in a row. Sweet and Sour Chicken balances tang with a bit of crunch, giving everyone something fun to scoop onto rice or eat on its own. The easy process helped me relax around fried dishes. Family smiles told me I was right to keep trying new things.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken

Crispy Rice

A stack of crispy rice topped with a dollop of white sauce, red sauce, and sliced green onions, with a blurred dish of green garnishes in the background.
Crispy Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Textures mean everything in food, and this crunchy dish proved it best. Crispy Rice is fun to share as a side or snack and simple enough to bring the crunch to any meal. I started playing with toppings and dips for more variety. Little wins like this kept my kitchen skills moving forward all month.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Dashi

A wooden ladle pouring fish sauce into a white ceramic bowl, with ripples visible on the liquid surface. A brown napkin is partially visible in the background.
Dashi. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Building bigger flavors became easier when I tried making this simple broth. Dashi forms the base for so many dishes and gives you a jump start on soups or noodles. With a pot of this on hand, all my Japanese recipes came out better. Practice made each batch easier, and my other meals improved, too.
Get the Recipe: Dashi

Kung Pao Chicken

A close-up of a stir-fry dish featuring pieces of chicken, snap peas, red bell peppers, scallions, and black sesame seeds.
Kung Pao Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Stir-fries took a turn for the better once I tried this spicy, nutty dish. Kung Pao Chicken stands out with crisp chicken and a heat that’s not too much, so it’s easy to go back for more. Every batch made me bolder with seasonings and add-ins. Now it’s a staple whenever someone wants “something with kick.”
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken

Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Slices of cucumber tossed in spicy Korean dressing.
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple side dishes got more punch once I put this together. Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad makes plain meals exciting again, adding just enough heat and crunch to wake things up. It’s now my automatic pick if I feel bored with basic vegetables. No wonder it’s gone every time I bring it out for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad

Udon Noodles

A close-up of stir-fried noodles with green beans, red bell peppers, and carrots, garnished with sesame seeds.
Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Brothy bowls kept meals interesting during a busy week, especially with thick noodles like these. Udon Noodles are chewy and soak up flavor well, letting me change what goes in each time for new results. They’re good plain or with extras, depending on what I’m in the mood for.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Sushi Bake

A dish of loaded fries inspired by sushi bake, topped with avocado slices, diced cucumbers, green onions, sesame seeds, and drizzled with sauce.
Sushi Bake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

When I wanted sushi but not all the rolling, this answer popped up. Sushi Bake is easy to layer in a dish and scoop out for everyone, taking away the pressure of perfect rolls. It’s now the top pick for potlucks or movie nights. One experiment turned into a regular request in our house.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake

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