When it comes to parties and gatherings, having a variety of delicious and easy-to-eat appetizers can make all the difference. And what better way to impress your guests than with a selection of flavorful Asian-inspired bites? From crispy spring rolls to savory dumplings, these 18 mouth-watering recipes are sure to satisfy any craving.
Whether you’re looking for something classic like steamed pork and shrimp siomai or wanting to try something new like Korean kimchi pancakes, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a culinary journey across Asia, exploring the diverse flavors and ingredients that make these appetizers so unique and delicious. So grab your chopsticks and let’s get started!
Steamed Pork and Shrimp Siomai
Experience the authentic flavors of China with this simplified recipe for Steamed Pork and Shrimp Siomai. This traditional Filipino dim sum dish is now easily accessible in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of siomai wrappers (about 20-25 pieces)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1/4 cup chopped shrimp
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped shrimp, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a siomai wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the pork-shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a half-moon shape, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
4. Repeat with the remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Arrange the siomai on a steamer tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Steam the siomai over boiling water for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls
Transform a snack into a satisfying meal with these crispy vegetable spring rolls, packed with the flavors of Asia.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (about 20-24 sheets)
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup cooked and cooled brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped bean sprouts
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, scallions, and brown rice.
2. Add soy sauce and sesame oil; mix well.
3. Place a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the vegetable mixture onto the center of the wrapper.
5. Brush the edges with water.
6. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
7. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
Cooking Time:
– Deep-fry spring rolls for 2-3 minutes or pan-fry for 4-5 minutes until crispy and golden brown.
Spicy Tuna Sushi Bites
Elevate your sushi game with these bite-sized morsels of flavorful goodness! Spicy tuna, crunchy tempura bits, and a hint of wasabi come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup of cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 1/4 cup of tempura bits
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of wasabi paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Mix tuna, rice, scallions, and soy sauce in a bowl.
2. Divide the mixture into small balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
3. Flatten each ball slightly into a disk shape.
4. Place a few tempura bits on top of each disk.
5. Drizzle with wasabi paste and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: None! These sushi bites are best served chilled or at room temperature.
Thai Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this classic recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into skewer-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut sauce ingredients (below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread the chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the satay for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together peanut sauce ingredients in a bowl.
6. Serve the grilled satay with warm peanut sauce and your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vietnamese Fresh Spring Rolls
Experience the simplicity and freshness of Vietnamese cuisine with these delicious spring rolls. Made with shrimp, vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this recipe is perfect for a quick and easy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of rice paper wrappers (usually found in the Asian food section)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, cucumbers, and bean sprouts)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and lime juice.
2. Add the shrimp and mix until coated with the marinade. Set aside.
3. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
4. Place a rice paper wrapper in the water for about 10-15 seconds to soften.
5. Remove the wrapper and place it on a clean surface.
6. Arrange the vegetables, shrimp mixture, and cilantro in the center of the wrapper.
7. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
9. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including preparation time)
Korean Kimchi Pancakes
Discover the spicy and savory delight of Korean-style kimchi pancakes, a popular street food in Korea. These crispy and chewy patties are packed with the bold flavors of kimchi and perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons kimchi (store-bought or homemade), chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
2. Add the chopped kimchi and mix until well combined.
3. Gradually add the water to form a thick batter.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a ladle or spoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the hot oil.
6. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes (frying time: 6-8 minutes).
Japanese Gyoza Dumplings
Experience the authentic taste of Japan with these crispy-bottomed, juicy-filled dumplings. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this popular dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gyoza wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or Asian grocery stores)
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for pan-frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cabbage, green onions, ground pork, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a gyoza wrapper on a flat surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pan-fry the gyoza for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes
These crispy and savory pancakes are a popular street food in China, typically served as a snack or appetizer. Our recipe makes it easy to recreate this flavorful treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the warm water and stir until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a golf ball.
5. Roll out each ball into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
6. Brush the surface with a little water, then sprinkle with chopped scallions.
7. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a wok or deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
8. Fry the pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
9. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to fry all the pancakes. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Indonesian Beef Satay
Satay, a popular street food in Indonesia, typically features marinated meat grilled on skewers. This beef satay recipe is an adaptation of the classic dish, with a flavorful blend of spices and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 20 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade), for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine beef strips, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, coriander powder, cumin powder, turmeric powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well to coat the meat evenly, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread beef onto prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with oil and season with salt.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Serve immediately with peanut sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Malaysian Curry Puffs
Experience the flavors of Malaysia with these crispy and savory curry puffs! This classic snack is a staple at street stalls and markets throughout the country.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup curry paste (available at Asian grocery stores)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Spoon small amounts of the curry mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half over the filling and press the edges to seal.
7. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Lumpia Shanghai
A classic Filipino favorite, Lumpia Shanghai are crispy spring rolls filled with a savory mixture of pork, vegetables, and spices. This recipe yields 20-25 pieces perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section)
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Mix well.
2. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the filling mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
4. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. Fry Lumpia Shanghai until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Bites
Experience the sweet and savory combination of Thai flavors with these bite-sized treats, perfect for snacking or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sticky rice (also known as glutinous or sweet rice)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked sticky rice, diced mango, palm sugar, fish sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 12-15 bites.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick pan or wok over medium heat.
4. Once hot, add the rice bites and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, until they are lightly browned and crispy.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Korean Japchae Glass Noodle Salad
A classic Korean dish, Japchae Glass Noodle Salad is a delicious and easy-to-make vegetarian recipe that combines sweet potato starch noodles with a flavorful stir-fry of vegetables. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
• 200g sweet potato starch noodles (dangmyeon)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
• 1 cup spinach leaves
• 2 teaspoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and mushrooms; stir-fry until vegetables are tender.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sugar.
6. Pour the sauce into the wok and stir-fry for 1 minute.
7. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vietnamese Banh Mi Sliders
Experience the flavors of Vietnam with these bite-sized banh mi sliders, packed with juicy grilled pork, crispy pickled vegetables, and creamy mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 8 small baguette rounds (about 3-4 inches each)
– Pickled vegetable slaw (see below for recipe)
– Mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pickled Vegetable Slaw:
– 1 cup thinly sliced carrots
– 1 cup thinly sliced cucumbers
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Mix ground pork with garlic, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and cilantro. Form into small patties.
3. Grill pork for about 5 minutes per side, until cooked through.
4. Assemble sliders by spreading a small amount of mayonnaise on each baguette round, followed by a grilled pork patty, a spoonful of pickled vegetable slaw, and finishing with the top baguette half.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes total, including prep time.
Japanese Takoyaki Octopus Balls
Experience the flavors of Japan with this popular street food recipe! Takoyaki is a must-try snack, especially during festivals and celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup octopus (fresh or canned), cut into small pieces
– 2 cups takoyaki batter mix (available at Japanese stores)
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Takoyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and green onion for serving
Instructions:
1. Mix the octopus with salt.
2. In a separate bowl, combine takoyaki batter mix and water. Stir until smooth.
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a takoyaki pan or a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
4. Pour small amounts of batter into the pan to form balls (about 5-6 per batch).
5. Place a few pieces of octopus in each ball and flatten slightly.
6. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the bottoms are golden brown.
7. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve with takoyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and green onion.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Chinese Char Siu Pork Buns
A classic Cantonese treat, these Char Siu pork buns are sweet and savory, filled with tender pork and crispy bok choy. Perfect for a quick snack or as part of a larger Chinese-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup char siu filling (see below)
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Char Siu Filling:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a pan, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. In a separate pan, sauté bok choy in a little oil until crispy.
4. Assemble buns by placing a wonton wrapper on a flat surface, adding a spoonful of char siu filling, and topping with scallions.
5. Fold wrappers into triangles or squares and press edges to seal.
6. Place buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each bun.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Indian Samosas with Mint Chutney
Discover the perfect blend of Indian flavors and textures with this simple recipe for Samosas accompanied by a zesty Mint Chutney. Enjoy!
Ingredients:
For Samosas:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
– Filling ingredients (see below)
Filling:
– 1 cup cooked potatoes, peas, and onions
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin powder
– Salt, to taste
For Mint Chutney:
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves
– 1/2 cup green chilies
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon oil or ghee
Instructions:
1. Mix flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add ghee/oil and lukewarm water to form a dough.
3. Prepare filling by mixing potatoes, peas, onions, cilantro, cumin powder, and salt.
4. Assemble Samosas by placing filling in the center of each dough piece and folding into triangles.
5. Fry Samosas until golden brown (approximately 10 minutes).
6. For Mint Chutney, blend all ingredients together.
7. Serve Samosas with a dollop of Mint Chutney.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Singaporean Chili Crab Dip
Get ready to spice up your snack game with this addictive Singaporean-inspired dip! This creamy, spicy, and savory treat is perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) container of cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of chili sauce
– 2 tbsp of Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp of grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp of garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, chili sauce, Dijon mustard, grated ginger, and garlic powder.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Chill time: 30 minutes
Serve: With crackers, chips, or veggies, this dip is sure to be a hit!
Summary
Get ready to spice up your gatherings with these 18 flavorful Asian appetizer recipes! From steamed pork and shrimp siomai to crispy vegetable spring rolls, spicy tuna sushi bites, and more, this collection has something for every occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party or just want to elevate your snack game, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to impress. Try making Korean kimchi pancakes, Japanese gyoza dumplings, Chinese scallion pancakes, or Indian samosas with mint chutney – the options are endless! Each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the bold flavors and vibrant colors of Asian cuisine. So go ahead, get cooking, and bring a taste of Asia to your next gathering!
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