With plant-based foods becoming a popular trend in the West, Asian households are also starting to adopt this lifestyle. A new generation of plant-based food brands is tapping into this mindset and using creativity to elevate reach and build clout in Asia.
When Singapore-based company OTS Holdings launched its soy-based luncheon meat brand Anew in June, it conducted focus groups to learn what Asian consumers wanted from the product. Health was a key motivator, says Shiya Ong, marketing manager for Anew.
1. Vegetables
Vegetables are versatile ingredients that can be cooked in many ways such as stir-fried, boiled, roasted or made into soup. They are high in fiber and a good source of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that are essential for health.
Vegetables also come in a variety of shapes, colors, and textures. It is important to choose vegetables that are appropriate for your child’s age.
For example, it is better to use soft vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower than vegetables that are too hard or crunchy. Try adding some flavor enhancers such as white pepper, garlic, onions, lemongrass, thyme, or parsley to your vegetable dishes to increase their taste appeal.
2. Seafood
However, it can be difficult to come up with creative seafood recipes that will appeal to customers. To ensure that your dish is a winner, it’s important to get the texture just right.
A good way to do this is to use silken or regular tofu. The former has a soft and smooth texture and works well in soups, dips, or sauces while the latter is firmer and is better for pan-frying.
3. Chicken
Asian foods have made a splash on the American culinary landscape, and with good reason. From the humble ramen noodle to the modern-day pho, there are many new and exciting dishes to be found on the menu. Even the old standbys are making their presence known, as evidenced by the many fusion restaurants around the country. From the ubiquitous teriyaki to a more sophisticated version of grilled cheese, there are plenty of choices to keep your taste buds happy.
The most obvious choice of course is chicken, which is a staple in many Asian kitchens. However, a more innovative option would be to eschew the fatty bird for a healthier alternative. The latest trend is to replace the classic chicken breast with a healthier choice, such as white meat chicken or even turkey. This not only improves the flavor profile of your dish, it also reduces the fat content and calories while still providing a meaty meal.
How to Make Authentic Asian Food at Home
4. Beef
For example, you can use ground round or ground sirloin beef that is at least 90% lean. That way, you’re getting less saturated fat and more heart-healthy calories.
However, even the best beef doesn’t hold up to a long shelf life and can go bad quickly, especially when it’s not stored properly. This is why it’s a good idea to keep extras in the fridge so you can whip up delicious dishes quickly. These creative ideas are sure to help your Asian-inspired menu stand out! Be sure to follow the National Cattleman's Beef Association on Facebook and Twitter for more tips, recipes and more.
5. Lamb
A high-quality hunk of pork or lamb atop a well crafted bun paired with a quality beer is the holy grail of many a food lover's prayer. Whether or not you have the foreskin to be found among the ranks of the proud groomers is another story, but you'll be forgiven for letting the hounds of honor do the honors for a night of noshing on the snags. It is no secret that the aforementioned meat has a long, illustrious history as one of America's most beloved foods.
6. Tofu
Tofu is an extremely versatile ingredient that has been a staple in Eastern cuisine for centuries. It is considered to be a healthy alternative to meat, especially for vegans and vegetarians.
Tofu can be served grilled, fried, stewed, stir-fried or eaten raw. It also is an excellent source of protein and calcium.
There are different types of tofu that can be used in recipes including silken tofu, firm tofu, and dried tofu. The main difference between these tofu varieties is the amount of water they contain.
Silken tofu is more delicate and can be used in many sweet and savory dishes. It is ideal for dips, sauces, smoothies, creamy desserts,, or anything that needs a soft texture. Regular tofu is a little firmer than silken tofu and is perfect for pan-fried or grilled tofu. It also soaks up the flavor of other ingredients well.
7. Mushrooms
These nutrients are also known to protect the brain from age-related decline. And because mushrooms are high in fiber, they help reduce blood cholesterol levels and keep the digestive tract running smoothly.
The most common types of mushrooms you’ll find at your local grocery store include button, cremini and shiitake. They’re all easy to prep and have a mild flavor.
8. Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein and there are many creative ways to enjoy them. They can be eaten on toast or used in a variety of other dishes for an extra boost of protein and flavor.
For a more traditional approach to eggs, you can try fried eggs. They’re super easy to make and can be served as part of a salad or on top of pasta.
If you want to add an extra zing to your breakfast, try making egg pepper rings. This is a great way to get a ring of fried egg on a whole pepper, and you can use any color.
Another easy-to-make dish is steamed eggs. These are similar to hard-boiled eggs, but are a bit more tender. They’re also easier to peel.
9. Vegetables & Tofu
Vegetables and tofu are often a staple of Asian cuisine. These foods are a great source of protein, vitamins and minerals that are often lacking in meat-based dishes.
They also have a light flavor and are usually flavored with vinegar, oil and soy sauce in a tofu salad or similar dish. This salad can also be made with other vegetables and a variety of spices to give it a more complex flavor.
There are many ways to enjoy these foods and there are plenty of creative recipes to try out. Vegetables and tofu can be fried, baked, stewed or turned into a sweet pudding dessert. They are also a great source of vitamins and minerals and are low in calories. They also contain a lot of fiber which can help keep you full and healthy. It’s a good idea to eat them regularly as part of an overall healthy diet!
10. Rice
In addition to being a great base for meals, it also provides the perfect vehicle for toppings like nuts, seeds, fruit and sweeteners. The key is to combine it with the right amount of liquid and seasonings to achieve a balanced and satisfying meal that can be eaten cold or hot.
While it is important to have a variety of different flavors in Asian cuisine, rice is a staple ingredient that needs to be well cooked and seasoned correctly. In addition, it should be paired with plenty of Asian-inspired vegetables and proteins for an authentic experience.
