With the cost of Chinese food–not to mention the amount of oils packed into every dish–you may be surprised to learn that many classic Asian dishes are actually inexpensive, simple, and healthy. Here are eight of our favorites from around the web.
1. Gyoza
While it is best known for being pan fried, Gyoza can also be boiled, using a similar method to cooking ravioli, for a more healthful alternative.
2. Omurice (Japanese Rice Omelet)
Get your essential fatty acids with this classic Japanese dish for any time of the day. Omurice is an omelet with rice as the main filling, along with whatever other ingredients you’d like, traditionally topped with ketchup. Substitute brown rice in any of these recipes for an even healthier dish.
3. Miso Soup
One of the most popular Asian side dishes, miso soup is also incredibly easy to make. Just a hint of fish makes this an incredibly savory dish.
4. Vegetable Fried Rice
If you still want the unique, savory taste of Asian fried food, check out this less fatty alternative to crusted meats.
5. Homemade Ramen Noodles
Ramen noodles have a reputation in the Western world for being cheap, quick, and saturated with salt, but high-quality ramen noodle soup can be a delicious and healthy meal. Put your pasta maker to work in a new way with this recipe.
6. Tofu Avocado Salad
Tofu is a fantastic Asian health food. Packed with complete proteins and able to absorb the flavors around it, tofu can be bent to your will for anything from fried dishes to ice cream. Check out this new twist on tofu salad.
7. California Rolls
It’s no news that sushi is a healthy Asian dish, but many of us are a little nervous about the idea of preparing raw fish by ourselves. For the timid sushi lover, here’s a recipe for the classic California roll, which uses vegetables and cooked crab meat.
8. Green Tea Rice Pudding
Matcha, a special variety of green tea that is crushed into an edible powder, is an extremely versatile Asian ingredient. Its hint of sweetness makes it the choice for many Japanese deserts. This page includes a variety of matcha-based recipes, but our favorite for healthy eaters is the rice pudding. There’s even a sugar-free option.