Asia’s culinary landscape is a rich tapestry of flavors and textures, with noodles being the common thread that weaves its way through the region. Imagine embarking on a gastronomic journey without leaving your kitchen, thanks to this curated list of 30 Asian noodle recipes. As you explore the diverse world of noodles, you’ll discover a multitude of shapes, sizes, and forms, each with its unique characteristics.
The three broad categories – wheat, rice, and glass or cellophane noodles – offer a starting point for your culinary adventure. Wheat noodles, made from different types of flour and binders like eggs or water, provide a satisfying chew. Rice noodles, crafted from rice flour and water, are light and delicate. Glass noodles, manufactured using tapioca, mung bean, and sweet potato starches, add an intriguing textural dimension.
From these three categories, you’ll find some familiar favorites, such as egg noodles, lo mein, udon, ramen, soba, rice vermicelli, somen, and wonton. These versatile noodles are often used in stir-fries and soups, but can also be found in salads, spring rolls, or served with a dipping sauce. Some standout dishes on this list include Pad Thai from Thailand, Pho from Vietnam, and Char Kway Teow from Malaysia.
And then, there’s the world’s most popular noodle dish – one that will leave you eagerly anticipating your next culinary adventure. So, are you ready to embark on this gastronomic journey and explore the wonders of Asian noodles?
Mee Goreng
Kicking off our culinary journey, we’re diving into the flavorful world of Malaysian cuisine with a beloved noodle dish that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Mee Goreng is a stir-fry masterpiece that brings together the perfect harmony of textures and flavors. At its core lies a bed of dried egg noodles, perfectly cooked to provide a satisfying bite. Then, there are the protein-packed additions – tender beef strips and succulent seafood pieces that add depth and complexity to each mouthful.
But what truly sets Mee Goreng apart is its bold flavor profile, expertly balanced between spicy and sweet notes. A drizzle of sriracha adds a fiery kick, while the subtle sweetness of coconut sugar rounds out the dish, leaving you craving more.
Garlic Noodles
When it comes to pairing this humble noodle dish with a protein of your choice, simplicity is key. A classic combination that never goes out of style is the pairing with spaghetti, which can be a convenient substitute if you don’t have Chinese-style egg noodles on hand. However, for a more authentic experience, using fresh Chinese-style egg noodles is highly recommended, as it brings an unparalleled depth to the dish.
Kung Pao Noodles
Inspired by its more well-known counterpart, Kung Pao Chicken, this noodle dish boasts an equally bold flavor profile. Hailing from China’s Sichuan Province, the recipe showcases a harmonious blend of flat rice noodles, succulent chicken pieces, and a colorful medley of vegetables. What sets it apart is the judicious use of peanuts and ground Sichuan pepper, adding a distinctive depth to each bite.
Char Kway Teow
For those who have explored the culinary delights of Singapore and Malaysia, this noodle dish is likely a familiar sight in bustling hawker stalls. A key characteristic of this recipe is its generous use of protein-rich shrimp, combined with silky tofu, fluffy scrambled eggs, and crunchy bean sprouts. The crowning glory, however, is the flat rice noodles that expertly soak up the complex flavors of the savory, spicy, and sweet sauce.
Pad See Ew
Indulge in a harmonious fusion of flavors with this Thai recipe, perfect for satisfying cravings. Thin strips of wide, flat rice noodles combine with juicy chicken and a rich, thick brown sauce, creating a culinary experience that’s as effortless to prepare as it is delightful to devour.
Jjajangmyeon
South Korea is next on our culinary journey, where a distinct dish originates. The Korean rendition bears some resemblance to Japanese udon noodles – thick, chewy, and made from wheat-based ingredients. This particular dish typically features the noodles as its base, with the spicy black bean sauce and accompanying pork bits and vegetables poured artfully on top.
Shoyu Ramen
Who’s familiar with the popular Japanese dish, Shoyu Ramen? While its traditional preparation requires 2-3 days of cooking time, I’m excited to share a quicker and easier recipe that can be whipped up in under an hour.
Vegetable Lo Mein
If cooking in a hot kitchen isn’t your cup of tea, fear not! This stir-fry noodle recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and fuss-free. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity – just toss your favorite vegetables with some savory sauce and combine it with cooked noodles. Feel free to use any wheat-based noodle you like, but if you want the best results, opt for egg or rice noodles specifically made for stir-frying.
Once you’ve got your noodles cooking, simply sauté your veggies, add in the par-boiled noodles, and give everything a good mix. It’s that easy!
Khow Suey
When it comes to Burmese noodle dishes, this particular recipe stands out as a must-try. Not only does it deliver a delightful harmony of flavors, but also an impressive array of textures that will leave you craving more. Each spoonful is a sensory experience, with the combination of chewy noodles, crunchy vegetables, savory meat, and soft sauce melding together in perfect balance.
Sichuan Dan Dan Noodles
Savoring every bite of this noodle recipe is an adventure for the senses. The harmonious blend of spicy, savory, sweet, tangy, and bitter notes tantalize your taste buds, leaving you wanting more. With each mouthwatering morsel, your palate embarks on a thrilling journey, oscillating between the bold flavors that define this delectable dish.
To elevate the authenticity of the dan dan experience, consider replacing the spinach with pickled mustard greens for an added layer of complexity and depth.
Chicken Chow Mein
A staple on Chinese restaurant menus in the US, this beloved noodle dish has gained widespread popularity. Its bold flavors, hearty portions, and ultimate satisfaction factor make it a crowd-pleaser. Rather than relying on takeout, why not attempt to recreate this culinary delight at home?
Pad Thai
Discover the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this mouthwatering stir-fry noodle recipe. A medley of ingredients comes together to create a harmonious blend of textures and tastes. The dish features flat rice noodles, succulent shrimp, juicy chicken, and scrambled eggs as its foundation. Adding depth and crunch are bean sprouts, a colorful medley of vegetables, tender tofu, and an array of spices that will leave your senses tingling.
Miso Noodle Soup
If you’re familiar with the world of noodles, you might be wondering what makes soba noodles so special. In this particular recipe, they take center stage as the main ingredient. The real magic happens when combined with miso paste, which serves as the foundation for the dish’s bold flavors. But that’s not all – this noodle-based delight also incorporates kelp powder, Korean gochugaru powder, and an abundance of fresh greens.
The result is a spicy and aromatic treat that will leave you craving more.
Hokkien Mee
Originating from China’s Fujian Province, the popularity of these noodles has spread to Southeast Asia, with Penang in Malaysia and Singapore being notable hubs. The recipe featured here is specifically inspired by the Singaporean version. If you’re having trouble tracking down skin-on prawns, which are essential for their shells to be used in the broth, you can opt for shrimp bouillon cubes and peeled shrimp as a substitute.
Pancit Lomi
Looking for a unique soup to warm up on chilly nights? How about trying a recipe from the Philippines that pairs hearty egg noodles with rich pork broth, tender pork bits, and savory pork liver? If you’re not keen on liver or can’t find squid balls, no problem! Simply omit the former and swap the latter with succulent cooked shrimp. This twist on traditional soup is sure to hit the spot.
Assam Laksa
A staple in Malaysian cuisine, this authentic noodle soup recipe is a must-try. While it may require some obscure ingredients, don’t worry – you can always ask your local Asian grocer for assistance or substitutes if needed. For instance, torch ginger flower can be replaced with a combination of fresh ginger and mint leaves. With a little help from your friendly neighborhood grocer, this dish is sure to become one of your new favorites.
Bahn Canh
If you’re seeking a Vietnamese noodle dish that’s not pho, consider trying Banh Canh. This hearty soup is packed with crab and ground pork, making for a flavorful and filling meal. While the recipe does provide guidance on crafting Banh Canh noodles from scratch, feel free to substitute them with ready-made udon if you’re short on time. The end result will still be delicious, so don’t let the thought of homemade noodles hold you back from giving this dish a try.
Sesame Ginger Noodles
For those struggling to decide what to bring to a potluck, fear not! A simple yet satisfying noodle salad recipe awaits. While it does require some chopping, the payoff is well worth the effort.
This versatile dish gets its foundation from rice noodles, which can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Feel free to add protein-rich seafood options like shrimp or salmon for a seafood twist, or opt for tofu as a vegetarian alternative.
With its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing flavor profile, this noodle salad is an excellent choice for your next potluck gathering.
Pho
The iconic Vietnamese noodle dish is undoubtedly a staple in many cultures. As the national dish of Vietnam, it’s no surprise that variations like pho ga (chicken pho) and pho bo (beef pho) are well-known. What sets this particular recipe apart is its simplicity – a quick and delicious version that allows you to customize with your choice of protein (chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp), all wrapped up in a savory broth.
Goong Ob Woonsen
When faced with a pack of glass noodles in your pantry and unsure of what to do with them, consider combining them with this popular Thai dish. Characterized by its savory and slightly sweet flavors, this recipe is surprisingly free from any noticeable heat. For those seeking an added layer of spice, pepper flakes can be incorporated for an extra kick.
Lemongrass Chicken Noodle Bowls
Indulge in the flavors of Southeast Asia with this refreshing lemongrass chicken noodle salad. To prepare, combine cooked rice noodles with bean sprouts, crisp lettuce, crunchy carrots, and refreshing cucumbers. A zesty dressing featuring fish sauce and a squeeze of lime juice brings everything together. Finish each bowl off with a crispy crown of fried shallots and a pop of color from sliced red chilies.
Bihun Goreng
For Indonesian Fried Rice enthusiasts, Nasi Goreng is an absolute must-try. What sets it apart from traditional fried rice is the substitution of angel hair rice noodles (vermicelli) for rice. Feel free to experiment with thicker variations of this noodle if you prefer. The protein component is also customizable, allowing you to choose from a range of options such as chicken, pork, shrimp, or even combine all three for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Soba Noodle Salad
Experience the harmonious blend of Thai and Japanese flavors with a refreshing fusion dish that showcases the vibrant colors of various vegetables, served chilled. This salad’s creamy sauce is elevated by the richness of peanut butter, while crushed cashews add a satisfying crunch to each bite, making it a delightful culinary encounter.
Lor Mee
Indulging in the rich flavors of Malaysia’s culinary heritage, it’s not uncommon to find thick noodles swimming in a savory gravy-like soup. The dish, which has its roots in China, is typically served with a medley of ingredients, including half a hard-boiled egg, sliced fish cake, tender tofu, and succulent pork.
Japchae
The quintessential Korean noodle dish is an integral part of any Asian noodle recipe compilation. Some may perceive it as a straightforward stir-fry, while others might classify it as a noodle salad. However, this beloved dish actually embodies the perfect blend of both – a harmonious marriage of stir-fried vegetables and meat, expertly tossed with the sauce and noodles, which are then allowed to rest away from the heat.
Thai Drunken Noodles (Pad Kee Mao)
While many Thai noodle dishes feature flat and wide rice noodles, this particular recipe is another example. Interestingly, despite its name suggesting otherwise, this dish doesn’t contain any alcohol. Instead, it makes up for it with an abundance of flavor and a generous helping of spice, earning it the reputation as a favorite among those who’ve had one too many after a night out on the town.
Pancit Canton
In the heart of every Filipino gathering, one dish stands out as a staple: stir-fried noodles. This beloved comfort food is a must-have at any party or get-together in a typical household. At its core, it’s a harmonious blend of dried egg noodles and a medley of meats – think shrimp, pork, and chicken – all expertly cooked together.
Yaki Udon
Although this dish may appear to be a Japanese equivalent of Pancit Canton at first glance, it’s actually distinct from its Filipino counterpart. A key difference lies in the type of noodles used – fresh ones are employed here, rather than dried. Furthermore, the flavor profile is also unique, with a sweet and tangy quality imparted by the addition of sugar and vinegar to the sauce.
Singapore Noodles
This Singapore noodles recipe is a fascinating fusion of flavors from China, India, and various Southeast Asian nations. By combining succulent shrimp, tender barbecued pork, crunchy bean sprouts, delicate bihon noodles, and aromatic curry powder, this dish masterfully brings together distinct Asian cultures on one plate.
Janchi Guksu
In Korea, the beloved dish known as Korean Banquet Noodle Soup is a staple for those who appreciate the distinct flavor of anchovies. The rich broth, infused with the savory essence of anchovies, bonito flakes, and kelp, may take some getting used to, given its subtle fishy undertones. However, when served alongside other popular Korean accompaniments like spicy kimchi, sweet bulgogi, or crispy roasted seaweed, this dish becomes a culinary experience that’s sure to delight.
The bottom line
As you embark on a culinary journey through the Far East with our extensive collection of Asian noodle recipes, get ready for a flavor explosion that will take your taste buds on an unforgettable adventure across cultures and cuisines!
