Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast dishes from around Asia. Wake up to the aroma of sizzling kimchi and savory congee, or indulge in sweet sticky rice and fresh mango. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic like Japanese tamagoyaki or adventurous with Filipino tapsilog, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to get your day off to a delicious start.
From comforting bowls of Chinese congee to crispy Indian dosas, our collection features a diverse array of Asian breakfast treats. Discover new favorites and reinvigorate your morning routine with these simple yet satisfying dishes that will keep you coming back for more.
Japanese Tamagoyaki (Rolled Omelette)
A classic Japanese dish, Tamagoyaki is a sweet and savory rolled omelette made with eggs, soy sauce, and sake. This recipe yields a delicate and flavorful treat perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, soy sauce, sake, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush with cooking oil or sesame oil.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of the egg mixture into the pan and let it cook for about 30 seconds.
4. Lift one edge of the omelette with a spatula and gently tilt the pan to allow the uncooked egg to flow underneath.
5. Repeat this process, rolling the omelette as you go, until all the egg is used up (about 6-8 rolls).
6. Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute, then serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Korean Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice is a popular Korean dish that combines the flavors of spicy kimchi with savory fried rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice with the kimchi, soy sauce, and salt until everything is well combined and heated through.
6. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chinese Congee with Century Egg
A comforting and traditional Chinese rice porridge infused with the creamy texture of century eggs, perfect for a warm and nourishing breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 century eggs, peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine with water in a large pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the rice is fully cooked and has broken apart into a creamy porridge.
3. In a small pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add sliced century eggs, garlic, and salt to the pot with the congee. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 2-3 hours
Thai Sticky Rice with Mango
This classic Thai dessert combines creamy sticky rice with sweet and juicy mango, creating a delightful flavor combination that’s perfect for warm weather. With just a few simple ingredients, you can recreate this popular street food at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of uncooked glutinous or “sweet” rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 2 tablespoons of coconut cream or heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions with the addition of salt.
3. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the diced mango and coconut cream.
5. To assemble, place a scoop of sticky rice onto a plate, followed by a spoonful of the mango mixture.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour (including soaking time)
Vietnamese Banh Mi Omelette
Experience the flavors of Vietnam with this deliciously easy-to-make omelette that combines the classic sandwich fillings with a fluffy egg wrap. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup diced pork (or substitute with chicken, beef, or tofu)
– 1/4 cup pickled carrots and daikon radish, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Baguette slices (for serving)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until smooth.
2. Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the diced pork, pickled carrots, cilantro, soy sauce, and fish sauce (if using). Stir gently to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are almost set.
6. Fold the omelette in half and cook for a further 30 seconds.
7. Serve with baguette slices, and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Filipino Tapsilog (Beef Tapa with Garlic Rice and Egg)
A hearty and flavorful breakfast dish that combines tender beef tapa, savory garlic rice, and a fried egg. This classic Filipino recipe is easy to make and packed with protein to start your day off right.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound beef tapa (cured beef), sliced into thin strips
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the garlic rice according to package instructions or using leftover cooked rice.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the beef tapa strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. In a separate pan, fry an egg over easy (or however you like it).
4. To assemble, place a scoop of garlic rice on a plate, add the cooked beef tapa on top, and finish with the fried egg.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Roti Canai with Curry Dip
This classic Malaysian flatbread is a staple in every household. With its crispy edges and soft center, paired with a creamy curry dip, it’s a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
For the Roti Canai:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup lukewarm water
For the Curry Dip:
– 1/2 cup curry powder
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Combine flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl. Gradually add lukewarm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 portions. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook the roti canai for 1 minute on each side, or until crispy.
5. For the curry dip, blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including resting time)
Indonesian Nasi Goreng (Fried Rice)
Nasi Goreng, a popular Indonesian dish, is a flavorful and savory fried rice recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This classic dish is often served as a main course or side dish in Indonesian cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and fried shallots for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Push vegetables to one side of the pan.
5. Pour beaten eggs into the empty side of the pan; scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix eggs with vegetables.
7. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until combined.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions and fried shallots.
10. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Singaporean Kaya Toast with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A classic Singaporean breakfast that’s both simple and satisfying, kaya toast is a must-try for anyone looking to start their day with a sweet and savory treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of white bread
– 2 tablespoons of kaya (coconut egg jam)
– 2 soft-boiled eggs
– Unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until it’s lightly browned.
2. Spread one slice with kaya and top with a slice of toasted bread.
3. Place a soft-boiled egg on top of the kaya toast.
4. Drizzle with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Repeat for the remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time:
– Toasting the bread: 2-3 minutes
– Soft-boiling eggs: 6-7 minutes
– Assembly: 1 minute
Hong Kong Style Pineapple Bun
This sweet and savory bun is a staple in Hong Kong bakeries, featuring a crispy cookie-like crust, a soft and fluffy interior, and a hint of sweetness. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can recreate this beloved treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– Sesame seeds and pineapple jam for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5 minutes until yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Divide the dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly.
6. Place the buns on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving about 1 inch of space between each bun.
7. Brush the tops with beaten egg and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taiwanese Scallion Pancakes
Experience the authentic flavors of Taiwan with these crispy and savory scallion pancakes, a popular street food in Taiwan. These pan-fried treats are perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces.
4. Roll out each piece into a thin circle (about 1/8 inch thick).
5. Brush the scallions evenly onto one half of the dough circle.
6. Fold the other half over the scallions to form a triangle or a square shape.
7. Pan-fry the pancakes in hot oil until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
8. Drain excess oil and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indian Masala Dosa with Coconut Chutney
Discover the flavors of India with this classic recipe for crispy and flavorful Masala Dosa, served with a creamy and tangy Coconut Chutney.
Ingredients:
For the Dosa:
– 2 cups split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 1/2 cup rice flour
– 1/4 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
– Salt, to taste
– Water, as needed
For the Coconut Chutney:
– 1 cup grated coconut
– 1/2 cup yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1-2 green chilies, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Soak the lentils in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and grind into a smooth paste.
2. Mix the rice flour, asafoetida, and salt with the lentil paste. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Pour a ladle of the batter and spread evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until crispy and golden.
4. Serve the Dosa hot with Coconut Chutney, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Japanese Okonomiyaki (Savory Pancake)
Okonomiyaki is a popular Japanese street food that combines savory flavors with crispy textures. This recipe brings together familiar ingredients like cabbage, pork, and seafood to create a deliciously unique pancake.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced cabbage
– 1/4 cup diced pork (or bacon), cooked
– 1/4 cup cooked and shredded seafood (e.g., shrimp, squid)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon okonomiyaki sauce (or substitute with a mixture of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and water to form a batter.
2. Add cabbage, pork, seafood, soy sauce, okonomiyaki sauce, and ginger to the batter; mix well.
3. Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a non-stick pan or okonomiyaki grill over medium-high heat.
4. Pour in the batter mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve hot with additional okonomiyaki sauce, bonito flakes, and pickled ginger (optional).
Cooking Time: Approximately 6-8 minutes.
Korean Gyeran Bbang (Egg Bread)
Gyeran Bbang, also known as Korean-style egg bread, is a popular breakfast or snack item that combines the richness of eggs with the softness of bread. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through a simple process to create a delicious and tender egg bread at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm milk (around 100°F)
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Sesame seeds or chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the yeast is activated.
2. Add flour, salt, and sugar to the mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Beat in eggs and melted butter until well combined.
4. Knead the dough for 10-12 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into a round loaf. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Korean Gyeran Bbang!
Chinese Jianbing (Savory Crepe)
Jianbing is a popular Chinese street food from the Northern region, typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack. These savory crepes are filled with a variety of ingredients, including eggs, scallions, and fermented soybean paste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon fermented soybean paste (doubanjiang)
– Cooking oil or sesame oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a smooth batter.
3. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat.
4. Pour in 1/4 cup of the batter and tilt the pan to evenly coat the surface.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the bottom is light brown.
6. Brush with cooking oil or sesame oil, then flip and cook the other side.
7. Assemble by spreading fermented soybean paste on one half of the crepe, followed by a beaten egg and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes per batch
Thai Khanom Krok (Coconut Pancakes)
Khanom Krok are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, with a delicate coconut flavor that’s perfect for a sweet treat. These traditional Thai pancakes are typically served at special occasions or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup grated coconut
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Fresh lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, grated coconut, salt, and baking powder.
2. Add vegetable oil, sweetened condensed milk, and beaten egg. Mix until smooth and free of lumps.
3. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
4. Using a 1/4 cup measuring cup, scoop batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with fresh lime wedges and toasted coconut flakes (if desired).
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes (depending on size of pancakes)
Vietnamese Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)
Pho Bo, a classic Vietnamese dish, is a flavorful and comforting noodle soup made with slow-cooked beef broth, tender beef slices, and soft rice noodles. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (preferably oxtail or beef neck)
– 2 pounds beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 star anise
– 1 cinnamon stick
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 8 cups beef broth
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (basil, mint, cilantro) for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine beef bones, ginger, garlic, onion, star anise, and cinnamon stick.
2. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
3. Add sliced beef and cook for another 30 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
5. Assemble Pho by placing noodles into bowls, then adding slices of beef and a ladle of hot broth.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Filipino Champorado (Chocolate Rice Porridge)
Champorado, a popular breakfast dish in the Philippines, is a delicious and comforting treat that combines the richness of chocolate with the simplicity of rice porridge. This recipe is a twist on the classic version, using readily available ingredients to create a tasty and easy-to-make dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup water
– 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, milk, flour, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the champorado has reached your desired consistency.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the melted butter or margarine.
5. If desired, add the beaten egg and stir until fully incorporated.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Malaysian Apam Balik (Peanut Pancake)
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Malaysia with this classic Apam Balik recipe, a popular street food snack. Crunchy peanut goodness is balanced by fluffy pancake layers, making it a treat for the senses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon instant yeast
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup peanuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– Sesame seeds and palm sugar for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Gradually add warm water and yeast; mix until smooth.
3. Add oil and mix until well combined.
4. Fold in peanuts and peanut butter.
5. Heat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
6. Pour 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until bubbles form on surface.
7. Flip and cook for another minute; repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on pancake size)
Indonesian Bubur Ayam (Chicken Porridge)
Bubur ayam is a popular Indonesian comfort food, perfect for a cozy breakfast or a soothing dinner. This creamy porridge is packed with tender chicken, flavorful spices, and nourishing rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Scallions and fried shallots for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Grind chicken, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper into a paste.
3. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken paste and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Drain rice and add to the pot with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and creamy.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions and fried shallots if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Summary
Start your day with a delicious and exotic twist! This article features 20 mouthwatering Asian breakfast recipes that are surprisingly easy to make. From Japan’s rolled omelette (Tamagoyaki) to Thailand’s sticky rice with mango, each dish is a flavorful exploration of the continent’s diverse culinary traditions. Try Korea’s spicy kimchi fried rice or Vietnam’s banh mi omelette for a taste adventure like no other. With this collection of recipes, you’ll be whisked away on a breakfast journey across Asia and back again.
