I Couldn’t Handle Prep Or Cleanup—These 29 Asian Recipes Still Worked
I couldn’t handle prep or cleanup—so I figured dinner was canceled. But these 29 Asian recipes didn’t need me to do much of anything. They showed up, did their job, and left the kitchen looking almost the same. Honestly, I felt like I got away with something.
Bang Bang Shrimp
When I don’t have the energy for a long prep, Bang Bang Shrimp always comes through. It’s simple, quick, and hits the spot. The mix of crispy shrimp with just the right amount of creamy sauce makes it a real win. Perfect for when you need something that won’t take all day.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp
Miso Soup
Sometimes, you just need something light and easy like Miso Soup. It takes almost no time to prepare but still brings the comfort you need. Whether you’re having it as a starter or on its own, it’s always a good call. It’s straightforward and doesn’t require much cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup
Cashew Chicken
I rely on Cashew Chicken when I’m not feeling like spending hours in the kitchen. It’s easy to whip up and has that nice balance of savory with just enough crunch. This dish always delivers without needing too much effort. Clean-up is a breeze too, which is a bonus.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken
Rice Paper Rolls
Rice Paper Rolls are the perfect solution when I need something quick and healthy. They come together fast and are great for a light meal. You can make a few or more, depending on your mood. Plus, there’s almost no cleanup to worry about.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls
Dashi
Need something simple? Dashi fits the bill perfectly. It’s easy to prepare and can be used in so many dishes, from soups to quick sauces. The light, brothy base is so fulfilling without being time-consuming. Once you have it ready, meals come together faster and taste better with almost no effort.
Get the Recipe: Dashi
Sesame Chicken
When I don’t have the energy for a big meal, Sesame Chicken is my go-to. It’s quick to make and has that sweet and savory balance that feels like comfort food. No need to stress about complex steps or lengthy cleanup. You can enjoy it with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken
Easy Bibimbap
Sometimes, you just need an easy, one-bowl meal like Easy Bibimbap. It’s full of flavor without any complex steps. You can make it in no time and still feel like you’ve made something fulfilling. It’s a lifesaver when you’re low on energy but still want a fulfilling dish.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap
Chicken Tempura
Chicken Tempura is perfect when you want something crispy and easy. It’s quick to prepare and doesn’t require a lot of extra work. The crispy texture makes it feel like a treat, and there’s minimal mess to clean up afterward. You get all the flavor without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura
Kimchi
Looking for something simple but packed with taste? Kimchi always hits the mark. It’s quick to prepare and adds a punch to any meal. Best of all, it’s easy to store and requires very little cleanup. You can keep it on hand and pull it out whenever your plate needs something extra without having to cook anything new.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi
Easy Chow Mein
Easy Chow Mein is the answer when you need something fast and filling. It’s so easy to make, yet it feels like a real meal. You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand. The best part? It’s a one-pan dish, so cleanup is easy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein
General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s Chicken is a great choice when you’re looking for a quick, comforting meal. The crispy chicken paired with a tangy sauce makes it a hit every time. No need to overthink it—just toss it together. Cleanup is straightforward, which is always a win.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken
Kimchi Stew
For a hearty meal that’s simple to make, Kimchi Stew is my go-to. It’s easy to prepare and the bold flavors make it feel like comfort food. You don’t need much to make it work, and cleanup isn’t a hassle. It’s a warm dish with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers are perfect when I want something flavorful without a lot of prep. They’re easy to make and cook up quickly. The grilled flavor adds something extra without needing a long cooking time. Best of all, there’s barely any cleanup required afterward.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers
Chickpea Curry
If you’re looking for something filling without the hassle, Chickpea Curry fits the bill. It’s a hearty dish that doesn’t require much prep work. You’ll get a fulfilling meal that’s both simple and tasty. This one’s a go-to when time is tight but you still want something comforting.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry
Kung Pao Chicken
Kung Pao Chicken is a fast and flavorful option when you don’t have time to spare. You can whip it up in no time without making a mess. The mix of savory and spicy hits the spot when you need a quick meal. It’s an easy choice that delivers, even on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Chicken
Crispy Rice
This recipee is a fun and easy way to add crunch to your meal. You get the perfect texture without a complicated cooking process. Crispy Rice is a simple yet fulfilling dish that comes together fast. This is a great choice when you want something crispy without all the cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice
Lemongrass Chicken
For a light and tanty meal, Lemongrass Chicken is a great option. It’s quick to prepare, and the flavors are refreshing without being overwhelming. This dish is perfect when you need a change from the usual. It brings a fresh twist with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken
Korean Corn Dogs
Craving something crispy and indulgent? Korean Corn Dogs are a fun, easy-to-make treat. You’ll get that fulfilling crunch without hours in the kitchen. This dish is a quick hit when you’re in the mood for something different.
Get the Recipe: Korean Corn Dogs
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
When you need something quick and easy, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry is a solid choice. This dish combines the best of simple cooking with just enough flavor to keep you satisfied. Perfect for those times when you want a meal that won’t keep you in the kitchen for long.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry
Shrimp Tempura
No need to stress over complicated prep—Shrimp Tempura gets the job done. It’s light and crispy without requiring too much effort or clean-up. Whether you’re looking for a snack or a main, this one delivers in both speed and ease. A great option when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura
Sushi Bake
If you’re craving sushi but don’t want the hassle, Sushi Bake is the way to go. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for easy cleanup and quick prep. You get all the flavors of sushi without having to roll anything. This is one of those recipes that makes you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Bake
Sweet and Sour Chicken
Sweet and Sour Chicken is great when you want something fulfilling without the work. It’s easy to make, and the cleanup is minimal. This dish hits the right spot with its balance of sweet and tangy. The best part? It doesn’t take long to put together, making it a go-to for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Chicken
Egg Drop Soup
When you’re in the mood for something comforting and quick, Egg Drop Soup is the way to go. It’s simple and doesn’t require much prep. You get a smooth, velvety texture in just minutes. This soup is ideal when you need a light yet fulfilling meal fast.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup
Sushi Rice
For perfect sushi every time, Sushi Rice is a must. It’s simple to prepare and provides a great base for all your sushi creations. This recipe cuts down on prep without sacrificing texture. It’s the ideal option when you want sushi without the usual hassle.
Get the Recipe: Sushi Rice
Asian Style Pork Chops
Asian Style Pork Chops offer a sweet and savory taste in no time. The recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require a lot of ingredients. It’s a great choice when you’re craving something different without too much fuss. You get tender, flavorful pork without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops
Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)
For a rich, comforting dish that’s easy to make, Easy Thai Peanut Curry is a winner. It’s simple to prepare and gives you the perfect balance of creamy and savory. This recipe saves you the trouble of takeout and is just as satisfying. It’s a fast option when you need something hearty with minimal cleanup.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe (Better Than Take-Out!)
Sweet and Sour Pork
When you want something with a bit of everything, Sweet and Sour Pork comes through. The prep is quick, and you won’t be left with a huge mess to clean. With the perfect blend of flavors, it’s a meal that everyone can get behind. It’s one of those dishes that always hits the mark without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork
Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
For something fresh and light, Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad is a winner. It’s simple to prepare, and the cleanup is almost nonexistent. The spice adds a nice kick, making it a great side or snack. It’s one of those recipes you can make in minutes with little to no fuss.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad
Birria Ramen
Looking for something hearty but easy? Birria Ramen is a great option. It’s filling and satisfying, with minimal prep and mess. This dish combines the warmth and comfort of ramen with the richness of birria without the complicated steps. Perfect when you want something delicious with very little effort.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen
