Asian food is a diverse and rich culinary tradition that spans many countries and regions. From the spicy curries of India to the delicate sushi of Japan, from the aromatic pho of Vietnam to the crispy dim sum of China, Asian food offers a variety of flavors and textures that can satisfy any palate. Asian food is delicious and healthy, as it often uses fresh ingredients, herbs, spices, and sauces that are low in fat and nutrients. In this essay, My Way Travel will explore why we should try Asian food at least once and how it can enrich our cultural and gastronomic experiences.
Famous Asian Foods: A Top List
1. Pho (Vietnam)
One of the most iconic dishes from Vietnam is pho, a comforting and fragrant noodle soup. Pho consists of rice noodles, broth, meat (usually beef or chicken), herbs, and spices. The broth is simmered for hours with bones, onion, ginger, star anise, cinnamon, and other aromatics. The noodles are cooked separately and added to the broth, meat, and herbs. The dish is served with lime, chili, bean sprouts, basil, and hoisin sauce. Pho is a dish that reflects the simplicity and elegance of Vietnamese cuisine and is sure to warm your heart and soul.
2. Sushi (Japan)
Sushi is one of Japan’s most popular and well-known dishes in Japan. Sushi is a dish of vinegared rice topped or wrapped with various ingredients such as raw fish, seafood, vegetables, eggs, or tofu. Sushi can be prepared in different forms, such as nigiri (rice ball with a slice of topping), maki (rice and filling rolled in seaweed), temaki (cone-shaped hand roll), or sashimi (sliced raw fish without rice). Sushi epitomizes precision, balance, and elegance in Japanese cuisine. It also showcases the freshness and quality of the ingredients used.
3. Pad Thai (Thailand)
Pad Thai is a classic street food dish from Thailand that features stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, peanuts, scallions, lime juice, fish sauce, tamarind paste, sugar, and chili powder. Pad Thai can also be served with chicken, shrimp, pork, or vegetables. Pad Thai is a dish that balances sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors harmoniously. It is also among the most popular Thai dishes we have all heard about.
4. Dim Sum (China)
Dim sum is a Chinese cuisine consisting of small bite-sized food portions served in steamer baskets or small plates. Dim sum can include dumplings, buns, rolls, pastries, cakes, and other steamed, fried, baked, or boiled delicacies. Dim sum is usually eaten for breakfast or brunch with tea in a communal setting where people share different dishes and enjoy each other’s company. Dim sum is a great way to experience the diversity and richness of Chinese cuisine.
5. Kimchi (Korea)
Kimchi is a staple food in Korea, where it is eaten with almost every meal. Kimchi ferments vegetables (usually cabbage or radish) with salt, garlic, ginger, chili pepper, and other seasonings. Fermentation gives kimchi its sour, spicy, savory flavor and health benefits. Kimchi is rich in probiotics, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It can also help lower cholesterol, boost immunity, and prevent infections. Kimchi embodies the country’s cultural identity, reflecting the Korean spirit of resilience and creativity.
6. Biryani (India)
Biryani is a festive and flavorful dish from India that consists of rice cooked with meat, vegetables, spices, and herbs. Biryani can be made with different types of meat, such as chicken, lamb, beef, or goat. The rice is usually basmati or long-grained rice that is soaked and partially cooked before being layered with the meat and spices in a large pot. The pot is then sealed with dough or foil and cooked over low heat for a long time. This allows the flavors to infuse into the rice and create a symphony of flavors and textures. Biryani is often served with raita (yogurt sauce), salan (spicy gravy), or kachumber (fresh salad).
7. Nasi Goreng (Malaysia)
Nasi Goreng is a national dish of Malaysia that consists of coconut rice served with sambal (spicy sauce), fried anchovies, roasted peanuts, hard-boiled egg, and cucumber slices. Nasi Goreng can accompany various side dishes such as fried chicken, rendang (spicy beef stew), curry, or vegetables. Nasi Goreng is a dish that showcases the fusion of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other influences in Malaysian cuisine. It also represents the unity and harmony of the multiethnic society in Malaysia.
8. Peking Duck
Peking Duck is a famous dish from China that features roasted duck with crispy skin and tender meat. Peking Duck is prepared by inflating it with air, marinating it with spices and maltose syrup, hanging it to dry, and roasting it in a wood-fired oven. The duck is then carved and served with thin pancakes, spring onions, cucumber slices, and hoisin sauce. The diners wrap the duck and the accompaniments in the pancakes and enjoy them with their hands. Peking duck is a dish that originated in Beijing and has become a Chinese culinary art and culture symbol.
9. Miso Soup
In Japan, miso soup holds a special place in the hearts and stomachs of the Japanese people. Miso soup is a simple but satisfying soup made with dashi (stock), miso (fermented soybean paste), and various ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, mushrooms, potatoes, or green onions. Miso soup is usually served as part of a traditional Japanese meal or as a breakfast item. Miso soup is a dish that provides warmth, comfort, and nourishment to the body and soul.
WHY SHOULD WE TRY ASIAN FOOD AT LEAST ONCE?
Asian cuisine is more than just food; it’s a way of life. By trying famous Asian dishes, you’re expanding your palate, discovering new flavors, and learning about each region’s culture, history, and people.
Asian cuisine reflects the diversity and richness of Asia, where each country has its culinary traditions and specialties. By indulging in the flavors of Asia, you’re immersing yourself in the stories and customs of the people who have created these dishes for generations.
Trying famous Asian foods also allows you to challenge yourself and explore new possibilities for your cooking. Asian cuisine offers a variety of ingredients, techniques, and combinations that can inspire you to experiment in your kitchen. You may find a new favorite spice or sauce that adds more flavor to your dishes or learn a new skill that improves your cooking abilities.
Moreover, trying famous Asian foods fosters cultural appreciation and understanding. Food is an integral part of any culture, and by enjoying the flavors of Asia, you’re honoring the continent’s beauty and variety.
Food is a common language that unites people, regardless of their background or beliefs. By sharing famous Asian dishes with your friends or family, you’re creating memories and bonds that last a lifetime.
So, what are you waiting for? Book an Asia Tour today and enjoy famous Asian foods with us. You’ll be amazed by the variety and quality of dishes that Asia offers, from the simple to the sophisticated, from the spicy to the sweet.
Remember, this article only scratches the surface of the many famous dishes waiting to be discovered. Be curious, adventurous, and open-minded as you explore the world of Asian cuisine and savor every bite. You’ll always look at food in different ways.
