Gourmet Food on a Budget - Recipes, Methods, and Meal Planning - Ever Forward, Ever Flavorful
Recipes for foods whose cultural origins are in Asia, including Chinese. Take a trip to experience the flavors of Asian cuisines.
Japanese BBQ Chicken Stir-fry marinates diced chicken thighs in two barbecue sauces at once, a smoky American hickory concentrate and a sweet umami Japanese barbecue sauce, then sears everything hot and fast with bell pepper, red onion, and fresh herbs. Serve it over rice with a crisp cold slaw on the side for a dinner that comes together in under thirty minutes.
Baked salmon sushi stack is a deconstructed Philadelphia roll. It's salmon baked in a foil packet to stay moist, while sushi rice cooks easily in the Instant Pot. Layer the rice with cream cheese, cucumber, imitation crab, avocado, and the baked salmon directly on the plate.
Hoisin Duck is dry-brined, spatchcocked, and roasted on a rack for crisp skin and tender meat. The sweet-savory Hoisin glaze caramelizes in the oven for a glossy finish. It’s the perfect choice when you want an elegant, flavorful alternative to turkey or chicken, and pairs beautifully with rice or vegetables. Always roast duck on a rack so the fat can render away.
Sushi Oshizushi is a wonderful and easy way of making sushi. Rolling sushi can feel intimidating. If you’ve ever tried with a bamboo mat, you know the frustration: rice sticking everywhere, fillings falling out, and rolls that don’t look like the restaurant versions. That’s where a traditional wooden oshizushi mold comes in. With this simple tool, you can make neat, pressed sushi squares that look elegant, taste wonderful, and don’t require any rolling skills.
There’s something incredibly rewarding about a pork roast that cuts cleanly with a spoon and stays moist from edge to center. While I originally made this Hoisin Pork Roast Sous Vide for a Chinese-themed feast, it quickly earned a spot in our regular rotation because of how simple and foolproof it is.
Scallion Waffles
You know I love finding new ways to twist tradition—and these scallion waffles are exactly that. Inspired by Korean pajeon (scallion pancakes), but made in a waffle iron instead of a frying pan, they’re crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with scallions, chili flakes, and sesame oil. No syrup needed—these are made for savory dipping. A little hoisin sauce on the side and you’ve got the ultimate partner for your next Asian-inspired meal.
Carrot Ginger Sesame Drop Cookies bring together the warmth of ginger, the sweetness of carrot, and a nutty sesame finish — perfect for Easter or anytime you’re craving something a little different.
Asian marinated roasted turkey has bold Asian-inspired flavors. This recipe features a rich marinade of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil that infuses the turkey parts—such as legs, thighs, or wings—with savory, aromatic goodness. Perfect for a special occasion or a flavorful weeknight meal, this dish is a showstopper that's surprisingly easy to prepare.
Bok Choy chicken soup is so easy to make in the Instant Pot. It's tasty and healthy. Next time you make soup, include this Chinese cabbage.
Asian Coleslaw has vibrant flavors and nutritional benefits. It's a simple yet satisfying dish bursting with freshness and crunch.