We Had A Great Meal And Money Left Over—Thanks To These 27 Asian Recipes

ByMandy Applegate

There’s something reliable about meals that stretch a little farther without stretching the budget too. These 27 Asian-inspired picks came through more than once when dinner needed to feel full without turning into a big expense. Nobody noticed the price, just the fact that seconds were happening fast.

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Thai Drunken Noodles

A colorful dish of shrimp stir-fry with noodles, vegetables, and sesame seeds, garnished with basil leaves and green onions. Chopsticks rest on the dish.
Thai Drunken Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bold flavors and wide noodles come together to create a dish that balances richness with spice in a way that keeps you going back for more. Thai Drunken Noodles feel hearty but not overwhelming, making them perfect for any time of day. Each bite has a mix of textures that make it a fun eating experience.
Get the Recipe: Thai Drunken Noodles

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Close-up of a stir-fry dish with chicken, broccoli, mushrooms, and sesame seeds, coated in a soy-based sauce.
Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Quick to make but still packed with great flavor, this mix of tender pieces and fresh crunch always hits the spot. Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry keeps things simple while making a full plate that feels complete. It’s light enough to enjoy regularly but filling enough for a pleasing meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Sweet and Sour Sauce

A spoon rests inside a glass jar filled with a thick, brown liquid.
Sweet and Sour Sauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Great as a side or topping, it makes every dish feel like it’s been turned into something restaurant-worthy. Sweet and Sour Sauce brings that tangy balance with just enough sweetness to keep things interesting. Perfect for pairing with fried or fresh items alike.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Sauce

Tom Yum Soup

Close-up of a spicy tom yum soup with shrimp, mushrooms, tomato chunks, lime wedge, and chopped herbs in a rich, red broth.
Tom Yum Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A warm, comforting bowl with bold flavors that bring tangy and spicy together in a way only this soup can. Tom Yum Soup has a refreshing quality that cuts through its richness, making it perfect for any time. It’s light but still hearty enough to feel like a proper meal in itself. Every spoonful carries a new depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe

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. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe works even if you’re new to these flavors, making it approachable but still satisfying. Its smooth texture pairs perfectly with rice or anything you want to soak it up with. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make over and over.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe

Kimchi Stew

Close-up of a wooden spoon in a vibrant kimchi stew with tofu and pork, garnished with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes.
Kimchi Stew. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bringing warmth and a mix of tanginess and spice in every spoonful, this is one of those dishes that feels comfortingly rich. Kimchi Stew delivers layers of flavor that go deeper the more you eat. Perfect for colder days or any time you want something bold. It’s simple yet hearty, making it perfect for a full meal.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

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.

Surprisingly easy to enjoy with nearly anything, these pieces are a favorite at any table. Chicken Tempura offers the perfect balance between crunch and tenderness. Ideal for serving on their own or with dipping options that upgrade them even more. They’re gone as fast as you place them on the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Tempura

Easy Bibimbap

A bowl of bibimbap with sliced beef, egg yolk, carrots, cucumber, greens, and bean sprouts, topped with sesame seeds and red sauce.
Easy Bibimbap. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining a mix of textures and bright flavors in one bowl makes this dish easy to appreciate. Easy Bibimbap blends cooked and fresh pieces for something balanced and refreshing. Every bite brings a mix of flavors that work perfectly together. It’s a fulfilling yet light option that’s flexible and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

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.

Sweetness with just the right kick of spice turns this into the go-to sauce for nearly anything. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce works as a dipping option or glaze that enhances even simple dishes. Its glossy finish adds something bold to the table. It’s the kind of side that becomes an instant favorite to pair up with anything fried.
Get the Recipe: Thai Sweet Chili Sauce

Cashew Chicken

Close-up of Cashew Chicken featuring tender chicken, broccoli, edamame, cashews, and red bell peppers. This delightful dish is topped with sesame seeds and served over a bed of rice.
Cashew Chicken. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A combination of tender protein and a nice crunch makes this one a crowd-pleaser. Cashew Chicken is all about bringing different textures together while keeping the flavor simple and enjoyable. It’s hearty without being too heavy, so it feels balanced. Perfect for pairing with rice or enjoying on its own for something lighter.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Close-up of a shrimp curry dish with rice, topped with black sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy with a hint of sweetness, this dish has a way of making bold flavors feel light. Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry pairs rich sauce with tender pieces for the kind of balance that works. It’s versatile and feels just as good spooned over rice or enjoyed as is. Every bite reminds you why curries are loved by many.
Get the Recipe: Thai Coconut Shrimp Curry

Chicken Fried Rice

Close-up of chicken fried rice with peas, carrots, sliced green onions, and chopsticks.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A quick mix of tender pieces and fluffy rice makes this the ultimate comfort food for any meal. Chicken Fried Rice is super versatile and feels complete all on its own. Each bite carries the perfect mix of seasoning without being too complex. It’s the kind of dish you can enjoy any time with just a simple plate and a spoon.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

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.

Thick and chewy noodles like these provide the perfect base for any kind of meal. Udon Noodles bring a mix of simplicity and texture that pairs well with savory broths or stir-fried dishes. The soft texture soaks up flavor beautifully in any preparation. It’s one of those timeless dishes that makes you slow down and enjoy each bite.
Get the Recipe: Udon Noodles

Asian Slaw

A bowl of colorful coleslaw with shredded purple and green cabbage, carrots, chopped peanuts, and greens, mixed with dressing.
Asian Slaw. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This one makes for a great side dish that stands out. Asian Slaw brings together bold flavors and textures without overpowering the main course. It’s simple to make but always ends up being a highlight at the table. Great for adding balance to meals when heavier dishes need something fresh next to them.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Thai Yellow Curry

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

Creamy and packed with soft textures, this curry brings a bold mix of spices without overwhelming your plate. Thai Yellow Curry is adaptable and works well with rice or as a dipping sauce. It’s one of those curries you can’t rush through because each spoonful is worth it. Hearty but not heavy, it strikes the perfect balance.
Get the Recipe: Thai Yellow Curry

Strawberry Mochi

Strawberry ice cream with a slice cut out.
Strawberry Mochi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Little snacks are always fun to eat and share. Strawberry Mochi blends smooth textures with a fruity center for an unbeatable mix. They’re perfect for casual days when you want dessert but not something too big. Light enough for snacking and just as easy to grab for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Strawberry Mochi

Lemongrass Chicken

Grilled chicken with herbs on white rice, garnished with shredded carrots and cabbage.
Lemongrass Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Balanced and aromatic, this dish marries simplicity with bold, unique flavors that make it unforgettable. Lemongrass Chicken pairs hints of freshness with juicy bites in a way that’s versatile for any meal. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with rice to round out the plate. It brings something new without being complicated.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

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.

Bringing heat to every slurp, this noodle dish is for anyone who loves a little kick with their meal. Spicy Udon Noodles keep their chewy texture while being coated in something bold and flavorful. Perfect for those moments you want noodles but with more character. It’s easy to enjoy as a main or paired with simple sides.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

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.

Golden and slightly crunchy pieces create the perfect snack or base for topping, whether sweet or savory. Crispy Rice is all about texture and that satisfying bite that works with nearly anything. Great for simple meals where you want to jazz things up a bit. It’s a good reminder that something simple can almost always stand out.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice

Sweet and Sour Pork

Close-up of sweet and sour pork with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple, garnished with sesame seeds and chives.
Sweet and Sour Pork. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Juicy, tender bites coated in a glossy mix of tangy and sweet make this a standout among dishes. Sweet and Sour Pork combines crisp elements with a soft bite beneath it, making every piece memorable. It’s tasty enough to stand on its own but pairs well with rice too.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Pork

Chickpea Curry

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

Chickpea Curry packs in bold seasonings while remaining light and hearty at the same time. It’s a dish that works well with bread or rice without needing much else. Great for meals where you need balance without heavy proteins.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Curry

Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sugary coating wrapped around fresh pieces turns this simple snack into something crispy with a juicy twist. Tanghulu creates that pleasing crunch when you bite into it while keeping the natural juices inside intact. Perfect for those quick treats or sharing at gatherings when something unique is needed.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Coconut Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with noodles, bok choy, mushrooms, half a boiled egg, sesame seeds, and lime, garnished with chili slices. Black chopsticks hold some noodles above the bowl.
Coconut Ramen. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Creamy and smooth, this bowl takes classic noodles up a notch with a fresh, rich broth. Coconut Ramen blends together bold flavors and textures while keeping every bite light. It’s hearty enough to stand as a meal but simple in its appeal to all who taste it. Perfect for when you want comfort food that feels slightly upgraded.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Ramen

Butter Chicken

A bowl of creamy curry with chicken pieces served over white rice, garnished with cilantro, and accompanied by flatbread.
Butter Chicken. Photo credit: Easy Indian Cookbook.

A rich dish that pairs creamy textures with just the right amount of bold flavor in every bite. Butter Chicken brings mild spice together with soft pieces that feel comforting without being overwhelming. It’s perfect with soft bread or rice to soak up every bit of the sauce. A reliable option for anyone who loves something warming.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Vegetable Stir Fry

Vegetable Stir Fry. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Quick yet fresh, this mix of colorful pieces feels light but always delivers great flavor. Vegetable Stir Fry balances crunch and tenderness so that every bite feels unique. It’s a great option for those moments when you want something simple yet hearty. Easily serves on its own or as a side to richer proteins or rice.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Stir Fry

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.

The perfect mix of tangy and savory in every bite makes this chicken dish hard to resist. Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken pairs tender pieces with a glossy lemon sauce for incredible balance. Great for lighter meals that still have a ton of flavor packed in. You can pair it with rice or keep it simple as a main dish.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Lemon Shredded Chicken

Egg Drop Soup

A comforting bowl of egg drop soup elegantly garnished with fresh cilantro, vibrant chives, and a sprinkle of chili flakes.
Egg Drop Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Light and smooth, this soup delivers warmth in every bowl without being too heavy. Egg Drop Soup keeps its simple ingredients while offering enough flavor to stand alone. It’s great as a starter or even as the main meal when simplicity is the goal. Each spoonful feels soft, warm, and comforting enough to make it a regular choice.
Get the Recipe: Egg Drop Soup

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