I loved exploring Asian cuisine when I lived in that part of the world. And it didn’t matter if it was a random hot pot lunch, a Taiwanese night market dinner, or Japanese sweets in a 309 year old wagashi shop, I was always trying new things.
Asian food really does have so much to offer. So think incredibly fragrant spices, intricately beautiful desserts, and takes on wester cuisine that are sometimes better than the original (like fried chicken, sorry America).
And if you’d also like to explore some of the popular Asian dishes at home or when traveling to Asia, then here are a few you don’t wanna miss.
1. Wagashi – Japan
I know that there are a lot of Japanese dishes to try, but I really do recommend wagashi! It’s a traditional Japanese sweet which can be made from different ingredients, and sometimes paired with matcha.
I really loved my experience of having it in Japan (I think I had too many 😂). The flavors were incredible, and they were so delicately crafted.
So if you ever see it in a store or in Japan, then make sure to get some! It really was one of my favorite foods in Asia.
Pro Tip: If you’re in Kyoto, head to Sasaya Iori for wagashi. It’s been around for 309 years and it has some incredibly delicious and beautiful Japanese sweets!
2. Biryani – Indian
I am in love with biryani; it really is a must-eat dish when you’re exploring Asian foods. It’s this super savory, flavorful, aromantic, and satisfying Indian recipe. In fact, if I see it on the menu at a restaurant, then I’m probably gonna get it.
It’s a rice dish (sometimes made with meat) that’s cooked with a lot of delicious spices. So if you’re curious about it, then check out my list of Indian dishes to try. You’ll find the recipe there!
3. Bibimbap – Korean
I’ve had bibimbap so many times and I really recommend it!
It’s a whole bunch of tasty ingredients like marinated meat, egg, and veggies on top of rice, and it’s super hearty! It’s a staple in Korean cuisine and it’s one of the best Asian dishes to try when visiting. Just make sure to pair it with gochujang; it’s kind of essential.
Also, here’s a list of more tasty Korean dishes to try if you’re curious!
4. Red Curry – Thailand
Massaman curry is one of my favorite Thai curries!
It’s super flavorful, savory, and wonderfully fragrant! Also, it goes great with a bowl of steaming hot rice and it’s perfect if you’re craving Asian flavors and comfort food.
And if you’d like to try more recipes, then here are some other Thai dishes you can enjoy!
5. Ma Yi Shang Shu – China
I am all for tasty Asian noodle dishes with ground meat.
There’s just something satisfying about the savory oils, sauces, spices, and meats, so this is one I’m excited to try when I visit China or at home!
Also, if you don’t want to wait to try it in China, then here’s a recipe for Ma Yi Shang Shu.
6. Nihari – Pakistan
Nihari is a delicious dish which can be made with either lamb, mutton, or beef. Also, it’s cooked with the bones to get a wonderful flavor. Honestly, it sounds like such a great eating experience whether you’re having it at home or in a restaurant.
Oh, I could just imagine this being the perfect comfort food for a cold evening. Can’t wait to try this nihari recipe!
7. Chicken Curry – Nepal
I am in love with nepalese food!
It is so incredibly delicious and full of so many amazing flavors! And while it’s been awhile, I’m definitely sure I’ve tried Nepalese chicken curry and loved it. 😂
Also, being made with cardamom, garlic, ginger, yogurt, and so many other tasty ingredients, I think you’ll like trying this Nepalese chicken curry recipe at home. Or in Nepal itself!
Grace Moser is the author and founder of Chasing Foxes, where she writes articles to help women create a life they love in big and small ways. She's been a full-time traveler since 2016 and loves sharing her experiences and exploring the world with her husband, Silas. Her lifestyle and travel advice can also be seen on sites such as Business Insider, Glamour, Newsweek, Huffpost, & Apartment Therapy.