Asian flavors on a plate
This week, enjoy a culinary journey through Asia! The cuisine of this region delights with a variety of flavors, aromas and ingredients, combining health with the pleasure of eating. This is a great opportunity to try something new and discover inspiration for everyday meals.
Throughout the week, we serve Asian-inspired salads and bowls – light, crunchy and full of energy. In each of them you will find healthy ingredients such as fresh vegetables, tofu or oriental sauces.
From the spicy cuisine of Thailand to the subtle flavors of Japan to the aromatic spices of India, Asian cuisine is a wealth of inspiration and flavorful contrasts. Every bite tells a story full of traditions and local influences.
The week’s menu draws from the cuisines of China, Thailand, Japan, India and Vietnam. It’s a true journey across the continent to experience flavors characteristic of different cultures and cooking styles.
Discover the 9 healthiest and most popular foods from Asia
Discover 3 interesting facts about food in Asia
Swap unhealthy foods for healthy Asian alternatives
Scent of the orient
A journey through chinese culinary treasures
Chinese cuisine is known for its diversity and numerous cooking techniques, from stir-frying to steaming. The harmonious combination of flavors, colors, and textures makes each meal a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Chinese noodles, made from wheat, rice, or mung bean flour, are a staple in many dishes and symbolize longevity. Paired with tofu and green peas, they form the base of many vegetarian meals. Tofu absorbs flavors well and can be fried, boiled, or marinated.
Sesame and carrots add distinctive flavors and textures to Chinese dishes. Sesame seeds are often sprinkled over noodles or buns, while sesame oil provides a nutty aroma. Carrots bring color and subtle sweetness to balance bold spices.
Peanut sauce, commonly used in Chinese cuisine, pairs well with noodles and grilled meats, offering a creamy texture that balances spiciness. Chinese cuisine’s simplicity and rich tradition have earned it worldwide appreciation.
Discover the properties of chinese bowl ingredients
Chinese bowl
Ingredients
for two bowls
- 170 g of instant “Chinese” noodles
- 80 g green peas (fresh or frozen)
- 60 g tofu (natural or smoked)
- 50 g carrots
- 10 g sesame
Sauce:
- 40 g olive oil
- 10 g soy sauce
- 6 g peanut butter
- piece of ginger
- pinch of sugar, chilli and garlic
Chinese bowl
Preparation method
- Cook the noodles according to the instructions on the package. Usually, they need to be boiled in salted water for 6-8 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside.
- If you’re using frozen peas, bring water to a boil in a small pot and add the peas. Cook for about 3 minutes until they are tender, then drain and set aside.
- Cut the tofu into cubes or strips, depending on your preference. Peel the carrot and slice it into thin matchsticks.
- Place all the sauce ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. If needed, add some water to achieve the desired consistency.
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked noodles, peas, tofu, and carrot. Pour in the prepared sauce and mix everything well.
- Finally, sprinkle the dish with toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and crunch. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and healthy meal!
慢用 🙂
Nutritional facts for one chinese bowl
Wonderful greens
How Japanese cuisine combines freshness with deep flavors
Japanese cuisine is known for its simplicity, delicate flavors, and attention to ingredient quality. The cuisine places great emphasis on balancing flavors, appearance, and food presentation. It often incorporates seasonal ingredients to highlight the freshest and most vibrant flavors available.
Udon noodles are thick, chewy, and neutral in flavor, making them perfect for soups and stir-fries. They provide a satisfying texture and absorb the flavors of the broth or sauce. Sprouts add freshness and crunch, often used in salads and sushi, bringing a light, crisp element to balance the richer flavors of other ingredients.
Soy sauce is a key ingredient in many dishes, giving them a characteristic umami flavor that enhances the overall taste. It is often used as a seasoning or dipping sauce. Tuna, especially in sashimi form, is prized for its intense flavor and delicate texture, making it a staple in Japanese cuisine. Meanwhile, cucumber and carrot provide a refreshing contrast, adding crunch and color to various dishes like sushi and salads.
Japanese cuisine combines tradition with aesthetics. Interestingly, although sushi is globally associated with Japan, it was originally used as a way of preserving fish.
Discover the properties of japanese bowl ingredients
Japanese bowl
Ingredients
for two bowls
- 280 g of udon noodle
- 100 g tuna in can
- 15 g mayonnaise
- 50 g cherry tomatoes
- 40 g cucumber
- handful of sprouts
- 50 g carrots
- 2 slices of lemon
Sauce:
- 20 g Ponzu (citrus) soy sauce
- 10 g mayonnaise
- 40 g olive oil
Japanese bowl
Preparation method
- Place the udon noodles in boiling water and cook for about 3 minutes until they are tender but still firm. Then drain the noodles and set aside to allow any excess water to evaporate.
- Open the can of tuna and drain any excess water or oil. Transfer the tuna to a bowl, then mix it with soy sauce and mayonnaise until you achieve a smooth paste.
- Wash and cut the vegetables into thin strips or cubes, depending on your preference. You can use cucumber, carrots, or any other vegetables that suit the dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix or blend the ingredients for the sauce. Adjust the flavors according to your taste.
- In a deep bowl, place the cooked udon noodles as the base. Top with the cut vegetables and then add the prepared tuna paste. Drizzle the citrus-soy sauce over the top to add freshness and a burst of flavor. Serve immediately.
いただきます 🙂
Nutritional facts for one japanese bowl
Easy bite
Balancing sweet and spicy: the heart of indian food
Indian cuisine is one of the most aromatic and diverse in the world. The richness of spices such as curry, cumin, and coriander gives dishes a unique flavor and aroma, which has gained popularity across all continents.
Many Indian dishes are based on simple yet nutritious ingredients such as potatoes, chickpeas, and cherry tomatoes. Chickpeas are particularly valued in vegetarian diets for their high protein and fiber content.
Red onions and cucumbers are often used in salads and refreshing dishes, while raisins add a delicate sweetness to meals. Indian cuisine frequently combines sweet and spicy flavors, giving it a distinctive character.
Greek yogurt is not only a popular addition to spicy dishes but also a base for sauces that tone down the heat of curry. Honey, in turn, enhances the flavor and is used in many traditional desserts and marinades.
Discover the properties of indian bowl ingredients
Indian bowl
Ingredients
for two bowls
- 350 g of potatoes
- 100 g cherry tomatoes
- 10 g red onion
- 60 g chickpeas
- 40 g cucumber
- 20 g raisins
Sauce:
- 100 g greek yogurt
- 10 g honey
- 10 g wine vinegar
- pinch of curry and salt
Indian bowl
Preparation
method
- Cut the potatoes into wedges and cook them in salted water until tender. It’s best to use young potatoes with skin on, as they retain more flavor and nutrients, but you can also use pre-cooked potatoes for convenience.
- Slice the onion into thin wedges, and chop the remaining vegetables, such as cucumber, carrot, and bell pepper, into small cubes or slices according to your preference. These vegetables add crunch and freshness.
- In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients. Stir well until smooth and fully combined.
- In a large bowl, place the cooked potatoes, then layer the chopped vegetables on top. Drizzle the sauce evenly over the ingredients.
- Finally, sprinkle the salad with raisins, adding a sweet touch that contrasts nicely with the savory dressing.
बोन अप्पेतित 🙂
Nutritional facts for one indian bowl
Entrancing combo
The essential elements of vietnamese cooking
In Vietnamese cuisine, there is a unique balance of sweet, sour, salty, and bitter, creating harmonious dishes. Lettuce and cucumber are often used in salads, soups, and as toppings for main courses, adding lightness and freshness.
Mung bean sprouts, rich in vitamins and minerals, are an essential ingredient in many Vietnamese dishes, such as famous spring rolls. Peanuts are also a common addition, enhancing the texture and flavor of various meals with their crunch and rich taste.
In Vietnamese cuisine, coconut flakes are often used to give dishes a unique flavor and exotic aroma. Peanuts, typically roasted, are sprinkled on top of dishes for decoration or as an addition, providing a crunchy texture and deep flavor.
Corn in Vietnam is used both in savory dishes and desserts, especially when paired with coconut milk. Mango, particularly in the form of fresh fruit or spicy salads, serves as an excellent flavor accent, combining the sweetness of the fruit with a hint of spiciness.
Discover the properties of vietnamese salad ingredients
Vietnamese salad
Ingredients
- 80 g lettuce
- 50 g cucumber
- 60 g mung bean sprouts
- 20 g peanuts
- 10 g coconut shavings
- 30 g corn
Sauce:
- 10 g olive oil
- half a teaspoon of table mustard
- 30 g of mango (make sure it is sweet)
- wine vinegar, salt, sugar as desired
Vietnamese salad
Preparation method
- Begin by washing and slicing all the vegetables. Cut the lettuce, cucumber, and mango into bite-sized pieces. Place the sliced vegetables into a large salad bowl, followed by the mung bean sprouts, corn, peanuts, and coconut shavings.
- To prepare the dressing, blend together olive oil, mustard, mango, a splash of wine vinegar, and a pinch of salt and sugar. You can add a little water to adjust the consistency of the sauce to your liking.
- Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, tangy flavors of this Vietnamese-inspired salad!
Thưởng thức bữa ăn của bạn 🙂
Nutritional facts for vietnamese salad
Taste of Asia
The art of thai cuisine: a symphony of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors
Thai cuisine is one of the most aromatic and diverse cuisines in Asia, known for its balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors. Thai dishes combine fresh ingredients with intense spices, creating meals full of contrasts in both flavor and texture. Soups, curries, salads, and stir-fries are staples of Thai menus, with ingredients like fish sauce, lemongrass, and cilantro playing a significant role in shaping the cuisine.
Grilled chicken is commonly used in Thai cooking, especially in stir-fries and soups, due to its light texture and ability to absorb flavors well. Pineapple is a popular ingredient in Thai dishes, adding a refreshing and natural sweetness that is perfectly balanced by salt and spices. Thai salads like “som tam” often contain fresh cucumbers, which add a cooling effect to dishes paired with spicy ingredients.
Thai dishes frequently incorporate edamame beans, which are rich in protein and fiber, giving dishes a hearty touch. Carrots are also commonly used in Thai stir-fries and salads, providing a crunchy texture and natural sweetness. Meanwhile, peanuts are a classic addition to Thai dishes, providing both flavor and crunch, especially in salads and soups.
In Thai cuisine, lettuce is often used as a base for fresh salads, where it pairs perfectly with hot ingredients like grilled chicken or shrimp. All of these ingredients come together to create flavorful, textured, and fresh dishes that are an integral part of Thai food.
Discover the properties of thai salad ingredients
Thai salad
Ingredients
- 100g of lettuce
- 150 g grilled chicken
- 100 g fresh pineapple
- 50 g cucumber
- 80 g edamame beans
- 30 g carrots
- 20 g peanuts
Sauce:
- 30 g olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove of garlic
- 1/3 finely chopped chili pepper or chili seasoning
- salt, sugar and a little water as desired
Thai salad
Preparation
method
- Season the chicken breast. Slice into thin fillets and grill on a hot grill pan for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let it cool, then cut into strips.
- Boil the edamame beans according to the package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- Wash and tear the lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Slice the cucumber thinly and julienne the carrot. Dice the pineapple. Arrange all ingredients in a large salad bowl with lettuce as the base.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil with lemon juice, minced garlic, and chopped chili. Add a pinch of salt, sugar, and a bit of water to thin the dressing. Stir until smooth.
- Lay the grilled chicken strips over the vegetables, adding the edamame and pineapple. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and sprinkle with toasted peanuts or cashews.
อร่อยดี 🙂
Nutritional facts for thai salad