No Budget, No Extras—just These 29 Asian Recipes That Worked For Me

Money was tight, and fancy meals were not possible. No budget, no extras just simple food that needed to work. These 29 Asian recipes came through every single time. Easy steps, basic ingredients, and full of flavor. Rice, noodles, and simple sauces made each dish feel complete. No need for special tools or hard-to-find items.

Birria Ramen

A comforting bowl filled with rich, aromatic broth and tender noodles, where bold flavors come together beautifully. Birria Ramen makes an effortless meal that works when you’re craving something bold and filling. Perfect for moments when simple and hearty food is all you need to set things right.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Easy Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles cooked quickly with a simple and straightforward approach that’s perfect for any day. Easy Chow Mein is a mix that’s great when you need something delicious without breaking the bank. Everything combines for a dish that’s flavorful and unassuming in the best way. Nothing feels overdone, just a quick favorite that’s easy to embrace.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chow Mein

Cashew Chicken

Chicken pieces combine perfectly with the crunch from cashews in a way that feels balanced and hearty. Cashew Chicken gives just the right balance between texture and flavor without being complicated. It’s all about keeping things simple with ingredients you’ll likely have on hand. A great choice when you’re looking for something filling yet easy.
Get the Recipe: Cashew Chicken

Miso Soup

A bowl that’s smooth and comforting, perfect for quiet moments on a busy day when you just need simplicity. Miso Soup is made with gentle ingredients yet provides warmth that feels memorable in its own way. A light option that’s quick and gets straight to the point without fuss. It’s about keeping it basic but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Miso Soup

Butter Chicken

Creamy, rich, and balanced without being over the top, it’s everything you’d want in a simple, flavorful dish. Butter Chicken comes together easily and gives that homemade feel with straightforward ingredients. Perfect for a meal that’s filling and comforting without trying too hard. Just the right dish for a no budget, no extras kind of day.
Get the Recipe: Butter Chicken

Tom Yum Soup

A warm, slightly tangy broth that pairs beautifully with ingredients to create something truly grounded in simplicity. Tom Yum Soup delivers just what you need for those times when simple but vibrant flavors are enough. It’s adaptable, easy to make, and feels balanced without being flashy. Really makes a delicious meal without adding anything extra.
Get the Recipe: Tom Yum Soup

Orange Chicken

A combination of tender chicken coated in a simple sweet option that comes together effortlessly. Orange Chicken works when you need to put together something flavorful and well-rounded quickly. It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t ask for much effort or fancy ingredients. Simple yet filling without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Orange Chicken

Asian Slaw

Crunchy vegetables tossed together to make something fresh yet keeps to basics without anything extra. Asian Slaw is straightforward and comes together to offer a simple side that works without a big fuss. Makes a great addition to meals when you want something light but still flavorful enough to stand out. A great no frills dish that keeps things simple.
Get the Recipe: Asian Slaw

Dashi

A light and clean broth that serves as the backbone of many meals, always simple and no effort wasted on extras. Dashi brings everything together with simplicity in mind, staying grounded with basic yet essential flavors. Perfect for building dishes from scratch or keeping it minimalist when needed. A versatile addition that works every time.
Get the Recipe: Dashi

Sesame Chicken

Tender bits mixed with sesame and a touch of simplicity that creates a dish anyone can get behind. Sesame Chicken brings everything together with ease, keeping bold flavors subtle and straightforward. A great choice if you’re after something with a bit of richness but nothing fancy. It’s all about keeping things grounded and easy to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Asian Style Pork Chops

Chops cooked until tender and paired with flavors that stick to the basics without going overboard. Asian Style Pork Chops make a no hassle choice for solid meals on a day where practicality matters most. Easy to make and comes together without using anything extra or extravagant. Just the right amount of flavor where you need it.
Get the Recipe: Asian Style Pork Chops

General Tso’s Chicken

Crispy bits coated with just enough sauce, creating something simple yet hearty enough for any meal. General Tso’s Chicken ensures a balance of flavor without asking for overcomplicated steps or ingredients. Ready quickly and always an option when keeping to basics matters the most. Perfect for moments when effort needs to stay minimal.
Get the Recipe: General Tso’s Chicken

Korean Burgers

Patties infused with flavors that stay straightforward, yet make an impression when simplicity counts. Korean Burgers offer a change of pace that fits when you’re wanting something different but approachable. Works great when everything else feels a bit too complicated and you just want an easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Korean Burgers

Lemongrass Chicken

Chicken brought together with hints of straightforward spice and flavor without leaning into complex extras. Lemongrass Chicken functions perfectly when meals need to stay practical yet deliver a nice punch. Quick to prepare without straying into ingredients you don’t typically have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Lemongrass Chicken

Bang Bang Shrimp

Shrimp done the fast and flavorful way without any need to overthink methods or shopping lists. Bang Bang Shrimp isn’t complicated, making it a great match for busy moments without skipping flavor. A dish that simply works well for keeping up with practicality. No tricks, just a straightforward recipe that comes together easily.
Get the Recipe: Bang Bang Shrimp

Chicken Chow Mein

Stir-fried noodles combined with a mix of colorful veggies and tender chicken make Chicken Chow Mein an easy go to option. It blends the simplicity of everyday cooking with flavors that feel like an adventure. Perfect for busy days when you need something quick but still delicious. Whip it up in one pan and enjoy its comforting meal vibe.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Chow Mein

Tonkotsu Ramen

A warm bowl of creamy broth filled with chewy noodles is where Tonkotsu Ramen shines. It’s rich without being complicated and has a hearty feel. The addition of simple ingredients makes it easy to recreate without extra fuss. This is the kind of dish that sticks with you when you want something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Tonkotsu Ramen

Kimchi

A traditional favorite, Kimchi brings together fermented veggies and a punchy flavor. It’s simple enough to make in batches and have on hand for meals or snacks. Its tangy character makes it pair well with almost anything. You’ll be glad to have it as an add-on or side dish.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi

Rice Paper Rolls

Light, fresh, and versatile, Rice Paper Rolls are a fun meal option. Packed with simple fillings, they’re easy to make with only a few steps. What makes them great is how customizable they can be to suit what you have. Dip them in whatever basic sauces you like for more flavor.
Get the Recipe: Rice Paper Rolls

Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe

Creamy and rich with a hint of nuttiness, Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe is great for those quick dinners. All it takes is everyday ingredients to pull together something tasty in very little time. It’s one of those dishes that works even when you’re working with a tight list of items. Pair with rice or noodles and call it done.
Get the Recipe: Easy Thai Peanut Curry Recipe

Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Simple, yet full of flavor, Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry combines well-cooked chicken and fresh greens in an easy dish. It’s fast to make and barely needs any extra items to taste great. The sauce ties everything together, while keeping it approachable for anyone to recreate. Works well as a no-extras meal option.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Broccoli Stir Fry

Shrimp Tempura

Crisp and golden bites make Shrimp Tempura a fun and straightforward dish to add to your table. The light batter ensures the shrimp stays juicy inside without overcomplicating the process. It’s quick to whip up and makes for a great addition to any ordinary spread. Serve as you like; it holds its own every time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Tempura

Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Sweet and tasty flavors come together effortlessly in Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe. It’s made using basic ingredients, so you can recreate it easily whenever you’re short on time. The tender chicken paired with a simple glaze feels fulfilling without needing any extras. Serve it over rice and call it a day.
Get the Recipe: Panda Express Teriyaki Chicken Recipe

Massaman Curry

Combining mild spices and creamy texture, Massaman Curry keeps things delicious without being high-maintenance. It’s ideal for being whipped up with pantry-friendly items on hand. While the flavors are layered, the process stays uncomplicated for even beginners. Pair it with plain rice or bread for a wholesome finish.
Get the Recipe: Massaman Curry

Pork Belly

Slow-cooked or pan-seared, Pork Belly delivers simple indulgence without demanding much effort. Its tender yet crisp texture makes it a crowd-pleaser for everyday meals. Minimal seasonings balance its natural flavor and make it shine. Enjoy it as is or alongside basic accompaniments.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly

Kimchi Stew

Warm, bold, and comforting, Kimchi Stew uses simple ingredients to create a meal worth finishing every last drop. It’s the perfect way to make use of leftover kimchi and turn it into something filling. The flavor deepens as it simmers, proving you don’t need much to enjoy a good dish. Serve it with rice for a complete, no-frills meal.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Stew

Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Easy to prep and grill, Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers pack every bite with balanced flavor. All it takes are basic marinades and fresh cuts of chicken to nail this dish. It’s the kind of recipe that works perfectly whether you’re making dinner or just experimenting. Add rice or veggies on the side for a complete meal.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Thai Chicken Skewers

Easy Bibimbap

Organized yet casual, Easy Bibimbap is an effortless way to bring together rice, veggies, and protein. The key is arranging everything in one bowl without overthinking technique. A simple sauce ties it all together and keeps it convenient. You’ll find it’s a great no-extra solution for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Easy Bibimbap

Hot and Sour Soup

The balance of spicy and tangy flavors makes Hot and Sour Soup a great one pot option. Using just a few basic ingredients, it’s easy to whip up for lunch or dinner without stress. Its heartiness feels perfect, despite how light the broth comes across. Have it on its own or as part of a no-hassle meal.
Get the Recipe: Hot and Sour Soup