21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (2024)

Coming from a Filipino background, Asian dinners is common at our house. Since we love Asian cuisine so much, I’ve gathered our favorite Asian meals made in the Instant Pot! We’ve got Korean, Chinese, Thai, Indian, Indonesian, Vietnamese, Japanese and of course, Filipino represented… so get your Instant Pot ready for some meals inspired by the Far East and beyond!

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (1)

Table of Contents

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (2)

Pork tenderloin and frozen broccoli florets are tossed in a quick teriyaki sauce made with garlic, onions, ginger, soy sauce, chicken broth and brown sugar… which hit the spot!

General Tso’s Chicken

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (3)

It was another “Fake Out Take Out” dinner at our house! This time, I tackled General Tso’s Chicken and we loved the crispy chicken & flavorful sauce over steamed jasmine rice.

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (4)

Gimme some of that dim sum yum! These Pork, Ginger & Mushroom Shumai Dumplings hit the spot!

Indonesian Shrimp Fried Rice

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (5)

Another “Take Out Fake Out” option with your IP – Indonesian Shrimp Fried Rice! Sweet and salty flavors came through while shrimp and vegetables studded this flavorful rice dish.

Instant Pot: General Tso’s Pork Stir Fry

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (6)

A ‘fake out’ dinner strikes again! This time, General Tso’s Pork Stir Fry hit the spot with tender pork, spicy sauce and a melange of vegetables.

Instant Pot: Chicken Tikka Masala

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (7)

Our taste buds went to the other side of the pond! The ever popular dish, Chicken Tikka Masala, was amazing in the IP. The blend of spices in a flavorful sauce is worth making!

Instant Pot: Chicken Tikka Masala Rice

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (8)

Make once, enjoy twice! Transform leftovers into something delicious new, such as this Chicken Tikka Masala Rice with leftover Chicken Tikka Masala.

Instant Pot: Asian Sesame Noodle Salad with Peanuts

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (9)

Summer is officially here… so kick it off with some Asian flair by making this Asian Sesame Noodle Salad! It’s light, flavorful and refreshing!

Instant Pot: Korean Bulgogi Beef

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (10)

Put some Seoul in your dinner! This IP Korean Beef Bulgogi is flavorful and amazing served with rice or even stuffed in tortillas for Korean tacos!

Instant Pot: Vietnamese Style Caramel Chicken

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (11)

If you aren’t familiar with Vietnamese flavors, this is a delicious way to get started! This Vietnamese Style Caramel Chicken combines brown sugar, fish sauce, garlic, ginger and some red pepper, resulting in major umami!

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (12)

Happy National Shrimp Day! To celebrate, I made Sweet & Sour Shrimp in the IP, served over crunchy noodles!

Instant Pot: Vegetable Potstickers

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (13)

We devoured these homemade Vegetable Potstickers in which the dough and filling were made from scratch! Once made, you could saute or pressure steam in the IP.

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (14)

Instead of Chinese take out, we opted for Fake Out with this Beef & Green Bean stir fry in the IP! The only thing missing was the paper container to serve them in and there weren’t any leftovers!

Instant Pot: Thai Basil Chicken

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (15)

With summer around the corner, lighten up your meals with some Thai Basil Chicken! It’s awesome over rice, a salad or eaten nestled in lettuce cups for something guilt-free & flavorful

Chicken Makhani (Indian Butter Chicken)

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (16)

If you need an introduction to Indian cuisine, this dish is a great way to start. Easy, mild and so flavorful, you’ll wonder why it took you so long to try it!

Huli Huli Chicken

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (17)

This dish is a colorful dish from Hawaii and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables!

Here’s another fake out take out meal that;s just as easy as picking up the phone and ordering take out lol…

Korean Glazed Ribs

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (19)

These ribs are not only great for dinner but as an appetizer too!

Vietnamese Beef Pho

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (20)

If you’re in need of a filling bowl of comfort, this is it!

Filipino Chicken Adobo

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (21)

By far, my most beloved dish and national dish of the Philippines, this one comes from my mom…

Korean Style Short Ribs

21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (22)

When the cooler weather arrives, this is the dish that warms me to the bone! Rich, succulent and tender, it’s amazing how good the Instant Pot makes it!

Origin of Instant Pot

The Instant Pot is a multi-functional electric pressure cooker that has gained widespread popularity in recent years. It is particularly in North America. Its popularity is due to its ability to cook meals quickly and efficiently. Also, making it a popular tool for busy home cooks. The Instant Pot is particularly well-suited for cooking Asian dishes, which often require long cooking times and complex techniques.

The history of Asian cuisine dates back thousands of years and varies greatly depending on the region. In general, Asian cuisine is characterized by the use of a wide range of ingredients. It includes rice, noodles, vegetables, meat, fish, and spices. Many Asian dishes are also known for their complex flavors and textures, which are achieved through a combination of ingredients and cooking techniques.

The cultural significance of Instant Pot Asian dishes lies in their ability to bring together traditional Asian cooking techniques and modern convenience. For example, dishes like pho, a Vietnamese noodle soup, and Korean beef short ribs. This traditionally require hours of simmering on the stove, can be prepared quickly and easily in an Instant Pot. This allows home cooks to enjoy these dishes more frequently and with less effort than would be required using traditional cooking methods.

Benefits of Instant Pot Asian Recipes

Here are some benefits of Instant Pot Asian Dishes:

Time savings

Many Asian dishes, such as soups, stews, and curries, traditionally require long cooking times to develop flavor and tenderize meats. Cooking these dishes in an Instant Pot can reduce cooking time by up to 70%, allowing you to prepare delicious meals quickly and efficiently.

Convenience

The Instant Pot is a one-pot wonder, meaning you can cook your entire meal in one appliance. This not only saves time but also reduces the amount of cleanup required after cooking.

Healthier cooking

The Instant Pot is a great tool for healthier cooking. It allows you to cook with less oil, retain more nutrients in your food. It also cooks meats until they are tender without overcooking them.

Versatility

The Instant Pot can be used to prepare a wide range of Asian dishes, from steamed dumplings to soups to stir-fries. This versatility means you can experiment with different flavors and cuisines, and even create your own recipes.

Consistency

The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function ensures that food is cooked evenly and consistently every time. This means you can expect the same great results with every batch of food you prepare.

Flavorful dishes

The high-pressure cooking method of the Instant Pot helps to infuse flavors into your dishes, making them more flavorful and aromatic.

Tips For Making Instant Pot Asian Recipes

Follow the recipe

When making Instant Pot Asian dishes, it’s important to follow the recipe carefully, especially if you’re new to pressure cooking. Asian recipes often require precise measurements and timing, so following the recipe will help ensure success.

Use the right amount of liquid

The Instant Pot requires a certain amount of liquid to create steam and build pressure. Be sure to add enough liquid to your recipe, as too little can result in burnt food or a failed pressure cooking cycle.

Consider pre-cooking some ingredients

While the Instant Pot is great for cooking many ingredients, some items may require pre-cooking before adding them to your recipe. For example, some meats may benefit from a quick sear before pressure cooking, while some vegetables may need to be steamed separately to prevent overcooking.

Use the sauté function

The sauté function on the Instant Pot is great for browning meat, onions, and other aromatics before pressure cooking. This step can help develop deeper flavors in your dish.

Release pressure carefully

When your Instant Pot cooking cycle is complete, be sure to release pressure carefully. Use the natural pressure release method if your recipe calls for it, or use the quick release method carefully to avoid burning yourself with hot steam.

Experiment with different cuisines

The Instant Pot is a versatile tool that can be used to prepare a wide range of Asian cuisines. Experiment with different recipes and ingredients to find new favorites and expand your culinary horizons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much liquid should I use in my Instant Pot when making Asian dishes?

It is important to use the right amount of liquid in your Instant Pot when making Asian dishes to prevent burning or undercooking. Generally, a minimum of 1 cup of liquid is recommended for pressure cooking, but some recipes may require more. Always check the recipe instructions for the recommended amount of liquid.

Can I cook frozen meat in my Instant Pot when making Asian dishes?

Yes, you can cook frozen meat in your Instant Pot when making Asian dishes. However, it is important to ensure that the meat is not too thick, as this can result in uneven cooking. To ensure even cooking, it is best to thaw meat before cooking if possible.

How do I adjust cooking times for my Instant Pot when making Asian dishes?

Cooking times for Asian dishes in the Instant Pot may vary depending on the type of food being cooked and the recipe. As a general rule, most Asian dishes will require a cooking time of 10-20 minutes under high pressure. However, it is always best to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure the best results. Additionally, factors such as altitude and the size of the ingredients may affect cooking times, so it is important to experiment and adjust as needed.

Conclusion: Try More Instant Pot Asian Dishes

Trying Instant Pot Asian dishes is a great way to add variety to your meal planning and expand your culinary horizons. With the Instant Pot, you can create delicious and flavorful Asian dishes in a fraction of the time it would take to prepare them using traditional cooking methods. This is because the high-pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot allows for faster cooking times. Also, help retains the nutrients and flavors of the food. Additionally, cooking Asian dishes in the Instant Pot can be a healthier option since it requires less oil and retains more nutrients. With the versatility of the Instant Pot, you can experiment with different Asian cuisines and create your own unique recipes. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, the Instant Pot can help you create mouth-watering Asian dishes that are sure to impress.

Related Recipes

  • Voluptuous Chicken Vesuvio [Instant Pot]
  • Vietnamese Style Caramel Chicken [Instant Pot]
  • Ultimate Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie Instant Pot Recipe
  • Turkey a la King [Instant Pot – VIDEO]
21 Best Instant Pot Asian Recipes | What's Cookin' Chicago (2024)

FAQs

What cooks good in an Instant Pot? ›

71 Of Our Best Instant Pot Recipes That Are Total Game Changers
  • Instant Pot Chicken Tortilla Soup. ...
  • Tangy Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs. ...
  • Instant Pot Pasta Primavera. ...
  • Instant Pot Baby Potatoes. ...
  • Veggie-Packed Mac 'n' Cheese. ...
  • Instant Pot Chicken Soup with Matzo Balls. ...
  • Instant Pot White Bean Chicken Chili. ...
  • Instant Pot Crème Brûlée.
Dec 13, 2023

Are Instant Pot meals healthy? ›

While it might not be the best option out there for nutrient retention, you should never feel bad about making a home-cooked meal in your Instant Pot, as there is no "perfect" preparation method for food.

How can I get better at cooking Asian food? ›

Tips and Tricks to Cooking Asian Food
  1. Keep a Well-Stocked Pantry. There are a few pantry staples that will help you cook up all your favorite dishes right at home. ...
  2. Be Specific When Cooking. ...
  3. Use the Right Tools. ...
  4. Prepare in Advance. ...
  5. Learn the Basics. ...
  6. Embrace the Marinade. ...
  7. Strive for Balance. ...
  8. Use Fresh Ingredients.

Are Instant Pots worth it? ›

Is it worth buying an Instant Pot? Yes, we do think an Instant Pot is worth it, particularly for pressure cooking. There's a reason it's one of the most popular kitchen appliances out there.

Do chefs use Instapots? ›

They allow us to create restaurant-quality dishes in a fraction of the time without sacrificing any of the flavor or texture. Whether we're whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a feast for a crowd, a pressure cooker is our secret weapon.

Is cooking in a pressure cooker unhealthy? ›

Is cooking in a pressure cooker healthy? Yes, cooking in a pressure cooker is healthy as it uses steam to cook food, the insulated and sealed body does not allow the water to evaporate thus preserving the nutrients in the food.

Is a pressure cooker healthier than a slow cooker? ›

Yes, slow cookers are a healthier way to cook food. This is because they use a low temperature to cook food, which unlike other styles of cooking, reduces the risk of destroying the nutrients in food when cooking at higher temperatures.

Does pressure cooking bone broth destroy nutrients? ›

Since pressure cooking doesn't require a much higher temperature and shortens the cooking time, there is less time for nutrient loss. For this reason, pressure cooking may actually preserve nutrients better than other methods of cooking.

What is the most common cooking method in Asia? ›

Popular Cooking Methods for Asian Cuisine
  1. Stir-frying. Stir-frying involves cooking the ingredients in a wok over high heat. ...
  2. Deep frying. Deep frying means submerging the food in very hot oil. ...
  3. Grilling. Grilling involves cooking food above or below a heat source. ...
  4. Simmering. ...
  5. Braising. ...
  6. Steaming. ...
  7. Roasting.

What is the secret of good cooking? ›

The earlier you start seasoning, the deeper and more concentrated the flavors will become in the final product. When cooking meats, make sure to salt and tenderize with a fork the night before. And for pasta, salt the water generously, because that's the only time the pasta will really be able to absorb any flavor.

Are Instant Pots safe to eat from? ›

Yes, electric pressure cookers like the Instant Pot are generally safe and easy to use.

How healthy are cook ready meals? ›

Like most ultra-processed foods, ready meals are generally energy-dense and contain higher levels of low-cost ingredients such as saturated and trans-fats, refined starches, free sugars and salts, whilst being low in fibre and micronutrients(1).

Is eating home cook meals healthy? ›

Restaurant meals are often heavy on butter and salt, while packaged food is typically loaded with sodium and additives. Dishes made at home, however, tend to be more nutritious and contain fewer calories.

Are Instant Pots good for meal prep? ›

I love the Instant Pot for its ability to quickly cook weeknight dinners and because it's great for batch cooking. This Power Hour takes advantage of both by using the Instant Pot to prep breakfast and lunch options while you prep dinners that will be cooked in the Instant Pot later in the week.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Jerrold Considine

Last Updated:

Views: 6292

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (58 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Jerrold Considine

Birthday: 1993-11-03

Address: Suite 447 3463 Marybelle Circles, New Marlin, AL 20765

Phone: +5816749283868

Job: Sales Executive

Hobby: Air sports, Sand art, Electronics, LARPing, Baseball, Book restoration, Puzzles

Introduction: My name is Jerrold Considine, I am a combative, cheerful, encouraging, happy, enthusiastic, funny, kind person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.