11 Vegan Asian Recipes Gave Me The Break I Needed

When stress piles up, skipping takeout and reaching for something that feels new can be enough to reset. These 11 plant-based meals from across Asia turned out to be exactly that, unexpected breaks from routine. They’re bold without being loud, the kind that make lunch feel less like an obligation. Anyone who’s burned out on the same old dinner lineup could use what these gave: space to breathe and chew thoughtfully.

Tofu Vegetable Noodle Stir Fry. Photo Credits: Two City Vegans — Tofu Vegan Stir Fry. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

A bowl of Thai peanut curry with carrots, beans and kale. — Spicy Thai Peanut Curry. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Packed with rich flavors and a balanced kick of spice, this recipe is a go-to for anyone who likes bold food. Spicy Thai Peanut Curry is hearty, creamy, and offers layers of texture from its variety of added ingredients. It has a warmth that makes it great for any meal of the day. It’s the kind of food that fills you up without feeling too weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Thai Peanut Curry

Egg Rolls

Crispy on the outside, loaded with fresh, well-balanced fillings inside, Egg Rolls are a classic starter or snack. Each bite offers crunch and a punch of flavor, making them a fun option to share. They can stand alone or pair well with a dipping sauce. These rolls are enjoyable whether you’re snacking solo or entertaining guests.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Creamy Peanut Sauce

Smooth, nutty, and incredibly versatile, Creamy Peanut Sauce adds an extra layer of flavor to nearly everything. It blends easily with a wide variety of dishes, from salads to noodles. The texture is just right—thick but pourable, and it works as a dip too. This sauce is an excellent way to tie a dish together.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Peanut Sauce

Thai Red Curry Paste

Known for its deep, robust flavors, Thai Red Curry Paste is the base for many flavorful dishes. Its simplicity makes it easy to customize to specific preferences. You can mix it with other ingredients to bring out its diverse flavor profile. It’s a foundational recipe that’s worth having on hand for easy yet tasteful meals.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Paste

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them. — Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Chewy, nutty, and comforting, Sesame Soba Noodles are perfect for when you need something quick. With a simple toss, these noodles offer light flavors with a slight nuttiness. They’re easy to make but don’t skimp on texture or appeal. You can enjoy them hot or cold, depending on your mood.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

A bowl of Thai jasmine rice and chili peppers. — Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Light, aromatic, and the perfect side to any main dish, Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice is always a smart choice. Its texture is soft, making it ideal for soaking up sauces. The aroma alone makes it worth the effort to prepare it properly. It’s versatile and a comfort food staple.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Close-up of sliced cucumbers garnished with chopped scallions, sesame seeds, and red chili flakes. — Spicy Cucumber Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Spicy Cucumber Salad brings a cool, crunch-filled flair to any table. The flavorful balance of heat and freshness makes it great for pairing with other hearty dishes. It doesn’t overwhelm or feel heavy, working more as a palate cleanser. You can whip it up fast, making it perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Colorful vegetable spring rolls with carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers, served with peanut sauce. — Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Light, fresh, and packed with color, Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls are as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat. Each bite brings a mix of textures and flavors. They work great as a healthy snack or something more filling, depending on how many you have. Best of all, they don’t need much to come together, keeping it simple yet tasty.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Indian Onion Salad

A bowl of red onion and cilantro salad on a table. — Indian Onion Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

An easy side option to add variety to your meal. The fresh onions are balanced with other simple yet effective ingredients that enhance the overall flavor. Indian Onion Salad is an uncomplicated option that brings a nice contrast to richer dishes. This salad is quick to prepare, but the result feels like more effort was made.
Get the Recipe: Indian Onion Salad

Yellow Lentil Dal

Creamy and hearty, yet very simple at its core, Yellow Lentil Dal is comfort in a bowl. The smooth texture and mild spices make it a balanced and nourishing choice. It works just as well on its own as it does with a side like rice or flatbread. It’s an excellent recipe for when you want something warm and filling.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Packed with plant-based protein, Tofu Vegan Stir Fry is great for a fast yet delicious meal. The combination of tofu and veggies creates a mix of textures that keeps it interesting. Most importantly, it’s easy to adjust to suit personal tastes and preferences. The dish is quick and dependable when you need something wholesome.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry