9 Vegan Asian Recipes That Will Make Your Kitchen Smell Absolutely Irresistible

If your kitchen usually smells like burnt toast or sadness, these 9 vegan Asian recipes are about to change that. The kind of aroma that makes you walk in circles waiting for dinner to be done. They’re simple, quick, and weirdly good at making people ask, “What’s cooking?” even if it’s just Tuesday. Your couch might end up with guests who “just popped by.”

A bowl of yellow lentil dal with sour cream and a spoon. — Yellow Lentil Dal. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When Baked Tofu is in the oven, your kitchen’s going to smell amazing. It’s simple yet inviting, perfect for when you’re craving something hearty without the fuss. Trust me, once it’s ready, you won’t be able to wait to dig in. And the best part? It fits right in with your plant-based vibe.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

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.

Rolling up some Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls is almost as fun as eating them. They’re fresh, light, and packed with the good stuff. When you’re after something that feels special but is totally doable on a weeknight, this hits the spot. You’ll wonder why you haven’t been making them more often.
Get the Recipe: Rainbow Veggie Rice Paper Rolls

Creamy Peanut Sauce

Creamy Peanut Sauce is one of those game-changers that’ll have you looking for things to drizzle it on. It’s nutty, creamy, and you can make it as chill or as bold as you like. You’ve gotta try it with some spring rolls, or just about anything else really. It’s the kind of homemade touch that turns a meal from okay to oh-wow.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Peanut Sauce

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.

This salad is all about being refreshing with a kick. Spicy Cucumber Salad is a cool companion to any meal, especially if you’re into a bit of a spice-hit. You can whip it up quick, making it the perfect last-minute side. It’s got crunch, it’s got tang, and it’s all kinds of fresh.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Cucumber Salad

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

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

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry is clutch when you’re hungry and short on time. This one’s all about that plant-power, giving you a meal that’s both filling and big on taste. Everyone’ll be asking what that incredible smell is. And once you serve it up, watch it disappear in record time.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

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

The smell of Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice cooking alone will tell you it’s not your average side of rice. It works as a beautiful base for piling high with a delicious main or just shining solo. It’s gonna become a staple in your kitchen. Plus, it’s a cinch to get that light and fluffy texture just right.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Thai Jasmine Rice

Egg Rolls

Crispy on the outside with a hot, savory inside, just thinking about Egg Rolls makes my mouth water. They’re a real crowd-pleaser and yet completely suitable for a solo snack session. Make a bunch because they’ll disappear faster than you can say ‘more please’. The aromas coming off these are seriously something else.
Get the Recipe: Egg Rolls

Thai Red Curry Paste

Got a minute? Because that’s all it takes to recognize the robust aroma of Thai Red Curry Paste. Use it in numerous dishes and be prepared for a wave of compliments. It’s that secret ingredient that everyone talks about but can’t quite put their finger on.
Get the Recipe: Thai Red Curry Paste

Yellow Lentil Dal

There’s something comforting about a pot of Yellow Lentil Dal simmering away on the stove. It’s a staple that pairs well with heaps of dishes or just by itself. The scents wafting through your place? Out of this world. Seriously, it makes staying in better than going out.
Get the Recipe: Yellow Lentil Dal