35 Asian Appetizers to Kick Off the Meal

Asian cuisine is renowned for its appetizers, and these 35 recipes showcase why they are a must-try at any gathering. From crispy egg rolls to tangy satays and savory dumplings, these appetizers are designed to impress and delight.

Each recipe focuses on bold spices, unique textures, and vibrant flavors that bring excitement to the table. These dishes are perfect for sharing, making them ideal for parties or family-style meals.

Explore classic Asian techniques and ingredients that make these bites both authentic and irresistible. These appetizers combine simplicity with restaurant-quality results, letting you create a feast in your own kitchen.

Turn your meals into celebrations with starters that leave everyone wanting more.

Chicken Lettuce Wraps with Peanut Sauce

Chicken lettuce wraps with peanut sauce serve as a satisfying, healthy appetizer packed with bold flavors. These wraps combine ground chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy peanut sauce, all wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch.

The rich, nutty sauce balances perfectly with the savory chicken, making each bite a delightful experience. Light yet filling, these wraps are a great option for a quick meal or as a starter for a gathering.

The versatility of this dish allows for endless variations, such as adding your favorite veggies or spices. Healthy and delicious, these wraps can easily become a regular feature on your menu.

Sticky Asian Wings

Sticky Asian wings are the perfect dish for anyone who craves a combination of sweetness and spice. These wings are coated in a rich, savory glaze made from a mix of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and sesame oil.

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, they are irresistible and full of flavor. A sprinkle of sesame seeds and green onions adds a nice touch of texture and color.

Serve these wings at your next get-together, and watch them disappear in no time. Quick and easy to make, they bring a bold punch of flavor that will keep everyone coming back for more.

Vietnamese Chicken Salad

Vietnamese chicken salad is a refreshing, zesty take on the classic chicken salad. Crisp, fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and herbs come together with tender chicken and a tangy Nuoc Cham dressing.

This salad balances savory, sweet, and sour flavors, making it a true burst of freshness in every bite. The addition of roasted peanuts gives a nice crunch that complements the crispness of the veggies.

Healthy and light, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and can be served on its own or as a side dish. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare this delicious salad with just a few simple ingredients.

Chicken Tikkas

Chicken tikkas are a popular Indian appetizer that you will surely fall in love with. These bite-sized pieces of chicken are marinated in a mix of aromatic spices and yogurt, which tenderizes the meat and infuses it with bold, fragrant flavors.

The result is a juicy, perfectly spiced chicken that is grilled to perfection. Whether served as a main dish or a snack, these chicken tikkas are sure to impress your family and friends with their incredible flavor.

This dish is a wonderful introduction to Indian cuisine, offering a blend of spices that are both exciting and approachable. Quick and easy to prepare, chicken tikkas are perfect for any occasion.

Chicken Larb (Thai Larb Gai)

Chicken larb (Thai larb gai) is a flavorful and fresh Thai dish that combines ground chicken with a variety of herbs, spices, and a tangy dressing. Served in lettuce wraps, it’s a delightful dish that’s light but full of bold flavors.

The combination of fresh mint, cilantro, and lime gives it a bright, zesty kick, while the fish sauce adds a savory depth. This dish is perfect for those who love a little heat, as the chili peppers add a spicy punch.

Larb gai is a great appetizer or light meal that will leave you craving more. The crunchy lettuce and tender chicken create a satisfying texture, making it an enjoyable dish for all.

Mayak Eggs (Korean Marinated Eggs)

Mayak eggs, known for their irresistible flavors, are a popular Korean snack. Soft-boiled eggs marinated in a sweet, salty, and spicy sauce become a delightful treat that’s perfect as a quick snack or appetizer.

The marinade seeps into the eggs, making every bite burst with flavor. Mayak eggs are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed as a savory snack or paired with a variety of meals.

The simplicity of the ingredients allows the eggs to shine, while the marinade gives them a unique, addictive taste. If you’re looking for a quick, tasty, and healthy dish to enjoy, mayak eggs are a fantastic choice.

Korean Fried Chicken

Korean fried chicken stands out as a crispy, flavorful delight. The golden, thin crust wraps around tender, juicy chicken, and the savory soy garlic sauce coats each piece, creating a balance of spice and sweetness.

This dish has become an international favorite, and it’s no wonder why. Perfect for casual gatherings or a satisfying dinner, it’s an easy way to bring bold flavors to your table.

The crispy exterior and succulent meat make each bite irresistible. Whether served alone or with a side, this version of fried chicken will quickly become a go-to comfort food.

Gyoza (Japanese Potstickers)

Gyoza, Japanese potstickers, offer a satisfying, savory bite with each crispy, tender dumpling. The filling, typically made of pork, cabbage, and garlic, is perfectly seasoned and encased in a thin dough that crisps up beautifully when pan-fried.

Served with a soy-based dipping sauce, gyoza is a beloved appetizer that everyone will love. These dumplings can also be steamed or boiled for a softer texture, making them versatile and easy to prepare.

Whether as an appetizer or a light meal, gyoza is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. The combination of crispy and tender textures will keep everyone coming back for more.

Chili Oil Wonton

Chili oil wontons are a spicy and savory twist on the classic wonton. These soft, delicate dumplings are bathed in a fragrant chili oil sauce, adding a bold and rich flavor that enhances the natural taste of the wontons.

The heat from the chili oil, combined with the savory wonton filling, creates a perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or a light meal, these wontons are sure to please anyone who enjoys a little heat.

Quick to prepare and full of flavor, chili oil wontons are a great choice for those who enjoy bold, spicy foods. Each bite delivers a satisfying kick that will leave you craving more.

Gado Gado (Indonesian Salad with Peanut Sauce)

Gado gado, an Indonesian salad with peanut sauce, brings a delicious and filling combination of vegetables, protein, and carbs. This colorful salad features a variety of fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and beansprouts, all drizzled with a rich, creamy peanut sauce.

The dressing adds a touch of sweetness and spice, complementing the vegetables perfectly. Tofu or boiled eggs add a protein boost, making this dish both hearty and nutritious.

Gado gado is a versatile salad, and you can easily adjust it to your taste preferences or dietary needs. It’s a well-balanced meal that is both satisfying and refreshing, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Lumpia (Filipino Spring Rolls)

Lumpia, or Filipino spring rolls, are a crispy, flavorful bite that will quickly become a party favorite. Filled with ground pork and a mixture of vegetables, these spring rolls are fried to a crisp golden perfection.

The savory filling is complemented by a sweet and sour dipping sauce, creating a balance of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer or snack, lumpia is always a hit.

They’re easy to prepare in large batches, making them perfect for gatherings or potlucks. Each crispy bite gives you a delicious mix of textures and flavors that everyone will enjoy.

Mongolian Meatballs

Mongolian meatballs are a crowd-pleasing dish that is both delicious and simple to make. These tender meatballs are coated in a sweet and savory Mongolian sauce that brings a unique richness to the dish.

Paired with a side of rice, they become a satisfying meal that is perfect for busy weeknights. The sauce combines soy, ginger, and garlic to create a balance of flavors that works wonderfully with the meatballs.

Easy to prepare and cook, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your household. Mongolian meatballs possess a depth of flavor that is irresistible, making them a go-to dinner option.

Vietnamese Crepe

Vietnamese crepes, or bánh xèo, are a savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and fresh vegetables. The crispy crepe exterior gives way to a savory, tender filling that’s full of flavor.

This dish is often served with fresh herbs and lettuce, making it a refreshing, flavorful meal. The combination of textures - from crispy to tender - is what makes this Vietnamese dish so enjoyable.

Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, these crepes are a fantastic choice for any meal. Whether enjoyed as a snack or a full meal, Vietnamese crepes offer a delightful bite that’s sure to please.

Wonton Soup

Wonton soup is a light, comforting appetizer, often enjoyed for its simple yet satisfying flavors. The delicate, hand-wrapped wontons are filled with tender meat and herbs, swimming in a flavorful broth.

This dish offers the perfect balance of savory and light, making it an ideal option for any time of year. It is easy to prepare, with just a few ingredients needed for a dish that everyone will love.

Whether served as a starter or a light meal, wonton soup brings warmth and joy to the table. The broth, infused with the savory taste of the wontons, is a great way to kick off a meal.

Cantonese Shumai

Cantonese shumai are dumplings that are packed with flavor and texture. These bite-sized delights are typically filled with a mixture of pork and shrimp, seasoned with ginger, garlic, and other aromatic spices.

The dumplings are steamed, keeping them tender while locking in all the savory flavors. Often served with a soy-based dipping sauce, shumai are the perfect appetizer to kick off any meal.

Their delicate, flavorful filling and light texture make them a crowd favorite. Whether served at a dim sum gathering or as a snack, shumai are sure to impress.

Okonomiyaki (Japanese Cabbage Pancakes)

Okonomiyaki, Japanese cabbage pancakes, are a savory treat that combines simple ingredients into a satisfying dish. The batter, filled with shredded cabbage, is cooked to crispy perfection, offering a balance of texture and flavor.

Topped with various fillings such as shrimp, pork, or even just veggies, these pancakes become a customizable delight. What makes them even more appealing is the ability to tailor each one to your liking with different toppings and sauces.

Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, okonomiyaki is versatile and delicious. It’s a fun, interactive dish that everyone will enjoy.

Fresh Spring Rolls

Fresh spring rolls are a healthy, vibrant dish that’s quick and easy to make. Packed with colorful veggies, herbs, and often shrimp or chicken, these rolls are wrapped in soft rice paper and served with a flavorful peanut dipping sauce.

They bring freshness and lightness to any meal, making them perfect for a light lunch or appetizer. The best part?

These rolls are customizable to suit any palate. Whether you prefer them with a simple veggie filling or loaded with protein, each roll offers a burst of flavor.

Simple, fresh, and satisfying, fresh spring rolls are a favorite for all.

Crab Rangoon

Crab Rangoon is a beloved appetizer, known for its crispy exterior and creamy filling. The soft cream cheese center is infused with crab meat and seasoned with a perfect blend of spices, offering a savory bite in every crunch.

These golden-fried pockets are the perfect finger food for any gathering, and they pair wonderfully with a sweet chili dipping sauce. Whether you bake, fry, or air-fry them, they’re always a crowd-pleaser.

Easy to prepare and perfect for prepping ahead of time, Crab Rangoon is a great option for parties or family meals. Crispy on the outside and creamy inside, these bites are truly addictive.

Egg Rolls

Egg rolls are a classic favorite, offering a crispy and crunchy exterior with a flavorful, seasoned filling. Filled with pork, rice noodles, vegetables, and mushrooms, these rolls are deep-fried to golden perfection.

They make the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion, and with a simple dip, the flavors are even more enhanced. The variety of textures inside makes each bite a delightful experience.

Whether served at a family dinner or party, egg rolls are sure to impress. The crispy outside gives way to a tender inside, making them a hit for all ages.

Firecracker Shrimp Skewers

Firecracker shrimp skewers are a spicy, tangy appetizer that’s full of flavor and fun. The shrimp are marinated in a sweet and spicy sauce, then grilled to juicy perfection.

With a perfect balance of heat from the chili and sweetness from the marinade, these shrimp are an unforgettable treat. Serve them as an appetizer at your next party or as a flavorful main dish for dinner.

The smoky grilled shrimp, combined with the firecracker sauce, create a deliciously complex flavor. These skewers are sure to steal the spotlight and bring excitement to any meal.

Asian Steak Bites

Asian steak bites are a savory, mouthwatering appetizer perfect for any occasion. Marinated in a blend of ginger, garlic, and soy, these steak bites possess a deep, umami-rich flavor that’s hard to resist.

Quick and easy to prepare, the steak is pan-seared to perfection, creating a golden crust on the outside while remaining juicy inside. These bites are full of flavor, with the right amount of tenderness that melts in your mouth.

Ideal for a party snack or a quick meal, they offer a satisfying, savory bite that’s perfect for sharing. Every bite delivers a bold, flavorful punch that will leave you wanting more.

Chicken Yakitori

Chicken yakitori is a Japanese grilling favorite that’s perfect for casual dinners or entertaining. Marinated in a savory-sweet soy sauce, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection, resulting in a dish that is both simple and full of flavor.

The skewers are typically served with a touch of sesame seeds and green onions, adding a layer of crunch and freshness. Easy to prepare and fun to eat, yakitori is a great addition to any summer BBQ or weeknight meal.

The smoky, charred flavor from the grill combined with the rich marinade makes every bite a delight.

Chicken Chapli Kababs

Chicken chapli kababs are a flavorful, tender, and juicy dish that will quickly become a favorite. These spiced, ground chicken patties are seasoned with an aromatic mix of herbs and spices, giving them a rich, fragrant flavor.

The kababs are crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and flavorful inside, making them a perfect appetizer or main dish. Serve them with naan or a side salad for a complete meal.

The combination of spices and herbs gives each bite a burst of flavor, while the simplicity of the dish makes it easy to prepare. If you’re looking for something unique and full of flavor, these kababs are a must-try.

Korean Cheese Corn

Korean cheese corn is a creamy, cheesy delight that you won’t be able to get enough of. Sweet corn is mixed with mayo, mozzarella cheese, and a bit of sriracha for a slight kick.

This dish combines savory and sweet in the most comforting way, perfect as a dip for chips or a side dish at your next gathering. Its gooey, cheesy texture and subtle heat make it a fun and irresistible treat.

Serve it alongside your favorite BBQ dishes or as a standalone appetizer for your guests. This easy recipe is sure to become a new favorite at any occasion.

Japchae (Korean Glass Noodle Stir Fry)

Japchae, a Korean glass noodle stir fry, is a colorful and delicious dish that you can easily prepare at home. The sweet potato glass noodles have a unique texture, absorbing the savory flavors of the stir-fry sauce.

A mix of vibrant vegetables and tender strips of beef create a satisfying, balanced meal. The sauce, a blend of soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil, gives the dish its signature sweet and savory taste.

Japchae is both hearty and light, making it perfect for a variety of occasions. It’s a great way to enjoy a flavorful, healthy meal that is easy to make and full of nutritious ingredients.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Asian cucumber salad offers a crisp and refreshing side dish that’s perfect for a light meal or appetizer. This simple yet flavorful salad combines fresh cucumbers with a balance of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors.

A touch of garlic, sesame oil, and rice vinegar gives the salad a satisfying, zesty taste. The crunch of the cucumbers, paired with the bold flavors of the dressing, creates a unique and enjoyable dish.

Asian cucumber salad is quick to prepare and can be made ahead of time for a convenient side at any meal. It’s a light and healthy choice that can complement a wide range of Asian-inspired dishes.

Shrimp Toast

Shrimp toast is an addictive, crunchy appetizer that brings bold flavors in each bite. Shrimp is blended with seasonings, spread on soft bread, and then deep-fried to a crisp, golden perfection.

The crispy, flavorful toast pairs wonderfully with a dipping sauce, making it the perfect snack or appetizer. Its savory shrimp filling gives the toast a satisfying, meaty bite that contrasts beautifully with the crisp bread.

Whether served as part of a meal or as an appetizer, shrimp toast will quickly become a favorite. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a delightful treat every time.

Chinese Spring Rolls

Chinese spring rolls are a crunchy, savory appetizer that can’t be beat. The crisp exterior gives way to a fresh, vegetable-filled interior that’s perfectly seasoned.

Whether you’re making them for a crowd or as a snack, these rolls are a simple, yet satisfying choice. Paired with a sweet chili dipping sauce, they provide the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

A great vegetarian option, these spring rolls are as enjoyable to prepare as they are to eat. Every bite offers a mouthful of delicious, satisfying goodness.

Sweet and Sour Meatballs

Sweet and sour meatballs combine savory and tangy flavors in a delightful dish that hits all the right notes. These juicy meatballs are glazed with a delicious sweet and sour sauce, enhanced by the brightness of fresh veggies and pineapple.

The result is a dish that is as fun to eat as it is to make. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual gathering, the easy preparation makes this recipe a go-to.

Served with a side of rice, it becomes a complete meal that is sure to please. The balance of sweetness and spice will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Samosa

Samosas are a classic Indian snack that combines a crispy pastry with a spiced potato and pea filling. The pastry, golden and crisp, contrasts perfectly with the savory, spiced filling inside.

These triangular delights are perfect for dipping into a tangy tamarind or mint chutney, elevating their flavors even more. Ideal for a party or as a quick snack, samosas are incredibly satisfying and full of bold flavors.

The spices used in the filling provide a perfect balance of heat and warmth. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, samosas never disappoint.

Easy Edamame

Easy edamame makes for a fantastic, healthy snack or appetizer. Whether you prefer the classic salted version or a more flavorful spicy chili garlic variety, edamame is a great choice.

These young soybeans are packed with protein and fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any meal or as a light snack. The subtle sweetness of the edamame combined with the savory seasoning makes each bite more enjoyable.

You can whip up a batch of edamame in minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick snack or side dish. Serve them with a sprinkle of sea salt or chili flakes for an extra kick that will leave you wanting more.

Gua Bao (Pork Belly Bao Buns)

Gua bao, or pork belly bao buns, are a mouthwatering, soft steamed bun filled with tender, juicy pork belly. The pork is cooked to perfection, offering a melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs wonderfully with the fluffy bao.

Topped with pickled vegetables and fresh herbs, gua bao is a delicious fusion of flavors and textures. Each bite delivers a sweet, savory, and tangy combination that’s irresistible.

Perfect for serving at gatherings or as a treat for yourself, these bao buns are sure to be a hit. They bring a taste of Taiwan’s night markets straight to your kitchen.

Pork Potstickers

Pork potstickers are an Asian favorite, with a delicious combination of tender pork and fresh vegetables wrapped in a thin dough. These potstickers are pan-fried to crispy perfection on one side while steaming to a juicy, tender bite on the other.

Whether served with soy sauce or a spicy dipping sauce, they offer a wonderful burst of flavor in each bite. Perfect for any party or dinner, pork potstickers are simple to make and even easier to eat.

Their combination of textures - crispy, tender, and juicy - makes them irresistible. If you love dumplings, these potstickers will definitely become a new favorite.

Thai Chicken Satay Skewers

Thai chicken satay skewers are a flavorful, tender dish that brings a taste of Thailand to your table. The chicken, marinated in aromatic spices and grilled to perfection, is paired with a rich, creamy peanut sauce that enhances the flavors.

These skewers are perfect for an appetizer or as a main dish when paired with a fresh cucumber salad. Easy to make yet full of complex flavors, they are sure to impress your guests.

Each bite delivers a satisfying balance of savory, spicy, and sweet, making it hard to stop at just one. This dish will quickly become a favorite at your next get-together.

Ojingeo Bokkeum (Korean Spicy Squid)

Ojingeo bokkeum, or Korean spicy squid, brings bold flavors to a simple dish. This stir-fried squid is cooked with fresh vegetables and coated in a spicy, savory Korean chili sauce.

The heat from the sauce is perfectly balanced with the natural sweetness of the squid, creating a flavor-packed dish. Quick and easy to prepare, ojingeo bokkeum makes for a satisfying appetizer or main course.

The tender squid, combined with the spicy sauce, makes for a delightful contrast of textures. If you enjoy Korean cuisine or spicy seafood, this dish is sure to impress.