Ditch The Takeout: 19 Asian Recipes That Save Money And Taste Great

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Ditch The Takeout: 19 Asian Recipes That Save Money And Taste Great

Tired of spending too much on takeout? It’s time to bring the delicious flavors of your favorite Asian dishes right into your kitchen. These 19 recipes are not only budget-friendly but also incredibly flavorful, making it easy to skip the takeout menu and create mouthwatering meals at home. Say goodbye to expensive takeout and hello to amazing, homemade meals that everyone will love!

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Szechuan Shrimp

Low angle shot of szechuan shrimp in a wok.
Szechuan Shrimp. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For those who crave a bit of heat, Szechuan Shrimp offers a lively flavor that energizes any meal. This dish allows you to enjoy the essence of Szechuan cuisine without the need for a restaurant visit, making it both cost-effective and convenient. This recipe serves as a brilliant introduction to cooking with bold spices, providing an alternative to the usual dinner routine.
Get the Recipe: Szechuan Shrimp

Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Beef bulgogi in a bowl with rice and cucumbers.
Beef Bulgogi Bowls. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Dig into the succulent world of Beef Bulgogi Bowls, where tender meat meets a blend of flavors. This dish delivers a restaurant-quality experience with the simplicity of home cooking, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious food lovers. Whether for a family meal or a special solo lunch, this dish packs a flavorful punch that satisfies your craving for Korean cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Beef Bulgogi Bowls

Chicken Pakora

Low angle shot of chicken pakora on a plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Pakora. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Embrace the crunch and spice of Chicken Pakora, a dish celebrated for its vibrant flavor profile and textural delights. This recipe is a fantastic way to bring the excitement of Indian street food to your kitchen, offering a taste adventure that’s surprisingly easy to achieve. It’s ideal for a festive gathering or as a savory snack during movie night.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pakora

Air Fryer Pork Belly

Stack of air fryer pork belly strips in hoisin glaze.
Air Fryer Pork Belly. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Experience the crispy perfection of Air Fryer Pork Belly, a recipe that makes achieving crisp and tender pork easier than ever. This dish is a game-changer for those who love deep flavors but want to keep preparation and cleanup to a minimum. It’s perfect for a hearty meal that requires little oversight, allowing you to enjoy your time while the air fryer does the work.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pork Belly

Black Sesame Cookies

Black sesame cookies on a baking sheet with a spoonful of black sesame seeds.
Black Sesame Cookies. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Indulge in the unique, nutty flavor of Black Sesame Cookies, an easy-to-make treat that brings a touch of Asian flair to your baking. These cookies are perfect for those seeking something different from the usual dessert options. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons with minimal effort, offering a distinctive taste that’s both memorable and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Black Sesame Cookies

Har Gow

4 har gow shrimp dumplings in a bamboo steamer basket.
Har Gow. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Delight in the delicate texture and subtle flavors of Har Gow, a traditional dim sum favorite that you can now prepare at home. This recipe demystifies one of the most beloved Chinese dishes, offering a straightforward method to replicate these steamed shrimp dumplings. Perfect for brunch or as an appetizer, they’re a great way to impress guests with authentic flavors.
Get the Recipe: Har Gow

Sesame Noodles

Sesame noodles on a black plate.
Sesame Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Turn to Sesame Noodles for a quick, flavorful dish that serves as the perfect weeknight dinner or a lunchbox staple. This recipe is a standout for its ease and the rich, savory flavors it delivers. It’s an excellent alternative to packaged noodles, providing a healthier meal. These noodles offer a delicious way to enjoy a homemade Asian classic that’s both time-saving and pleasing to the palate.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Noodles

Butter Garlic Naan

Low angle shot of a pile of garlic butter naan on a plate.
Butter Garlic Naan. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Enjoy the authentic flavors of Butter Garlic Naan without stepping out of your home. This dish is surprisingly simple to prepare and offers a wonderful accompaniment to any meal. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a hands-on approach in the kitchen, allowing for a fresh, hot result that beats store-bought alternatives. Plus, it’s much more cost-effective than dining out.
Get the Recipe: Butter Garlic Naan

Pork Belly Banh Mi

3 pork belly banh mi on a white platter with limes and pickled veg in the background.
Pork Belly Banh Mi. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Pork Belly Banh Mi combines vibrant, fresh flavors in a sandwich that’s both economical and bursting with flavor. This Vietnamese classic is easily recreated at home and can be customized with various fillings to suit your taste. It’s an excellent way to explore international cuisine while keeping your budget in check.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly Banh Mi

Dan Dan Noodles

A close-up of twirled dan dan noodles on a fork with herbs and bits of meat.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This dish is both affordable and straightforward, making it a practical option for a quick weeknight dinner. Dan Dan Noodles are a must-try for anyone looking to replicate the bold, spicy flavors of Sichuan cuisine. It’s packed with flavor and can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences, providing a delicious alternative to more expensive takeout options.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Onigiri

Two pieces of onigiri on a plate with chopsticks.
Onigiri. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Try the simple pleasure of making Onigiri, a beloved Japanese snack that is both easy to make and light on the wallet. These rice balls are a fun, customizable dish that can be filled with a variety of flavors. They’re great for a quick lunch or a snack on the go, offering a touch of Japanese tradition without the need for complicated cooking techniques.
Get the Recipe: Onigiri

Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Fried chicken pieces in orange sauce garnished with sesame seeds in a black bowl with chopsticks and a green and white napkin.
Air Fryer Orange Chicken. Photo credit: all Ways Delicious.

Air Fryer Orange Chicken offers a healthier, homemade alternative to this favorite takeout dish. By using an air fryer, you reduce the need for excessive oil while still achieving that crispy texture. It’s an ideal recipe for those who want to enjoy the sweet and tangy flavors of a classic Chinese dish but prefer to control the ingredients and cooking methods.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Orange Chicken

Tanghulu

Overhead shot of tanghuluu on a white plate.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This traditional Chinese snack features a candied exterior with a juicy, fruity center. Tanghulu might just become your new favorite treat with its crunch and sweet coating. It’s not only simple to make but also incredibly economical compared to other desserts. Plus, it’s a fun cooking project that can be enjoyed by the whole family, offering a sweet end to any meal or a pleasant afternoon craft.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Garlic Chutney

Overhead shot of garlic chutney in a bowl with a plate of samosas.
Garlic Chutney. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Garlic Chutney is a versatile and flavorful addition to any meal, offering the robust taste of garlic in a rich, spicy condiment. This recipe is both cost-effective and simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for enhancing a variety of dishes. It’s perfect for those who enjoy adding a burst of flavor to their meals without the expense of store-bought sauces.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Chutney

Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

Fried wontons on a black plate with dipping sauce.
Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Combining the best of land and sea, these wontons present a homestyle approach to a beloved Asian dish. Skip the takeaway container and craft a batch of Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons for a cozy night in. With their juicy filling and golden shells, they offer a wallet-friendly twist to your dining routine. Crack them open to release a steamy, aromatic experience that rivals your local takeout.
Get the Recipe: Fried Pork and Shrimp Wontons

Korean Ramen

A bowl of beef noodle soup with an egg and chopsticks.
Korean Ramen. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

Imagine a steaming bowl of Korean Ramen at your dinner table, infused with robust flavors, and ready in minutes. It’s a quick and accessible alternative to restaurant options, perfect for those looking to streamline their kitchen adventures. Ditch the instant packets and embrace the simmering broth of this comforting dish that brings the essence of Korean flavors to your own kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Korean Ramen

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Overhead shot of a plate of chicken adobo with rice and scallions on the side.
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

If you haven’t tried cooking with an Instant Pot yet, Instant Pot Chicken Adobo is the ideal start. This one-pot wonder fuses convenience with the rich, savory notes of a classic Filipino specialty. Not only does it serve as a money-saving selection, but it also cuts down on cooking time. Gather around the table for a dish that pays homage to traditional tastes while suiting the fast-paced modern lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Veggie Pad Thai

Low angle shot of a light blue bowl of pad thai.
Veggie Pad Thai. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

For a twist on a Thai classic, Veggie Pad Thai brings the vibrancy of street food into the comfort of your home. It’s a testament to the versatility of plant-based dishes, offering a colorful mix in one single plate. Not just kind to your wallet, this recipe also caters to various dietary preferences, making it a household staple for a quick, nutritious meal.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pad Thai

Sweet and Sour Tofu

Low angle shot of a bowl of sweet and sour tofu.
Sweet and Sour Tofu. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

There’s a way to skip the food court line and still indulge in a tangy, delectable dish: Sweet and Sour Tofu. This dish is a shining example of how to transform simple components into an array of textures and a blend of sweet-meets-sour. It’s a lifesaver for both busy weeknights and those seeking a meatless alternative without sacrificing depth of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sweet and Sour Tofu

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