Top 10 Asian Dishes Perfect For Catering Your Next Event

Asian cuisine boasts a vibrant tapestry of flavors, making it an excellent choice for catering your next gathering. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, wedding, or casual celebration, these dishes capture the essence of culinary art and will leave your guests raving. From savory dumplings to aromatic curries, this list showcases the top 10 Asian dishes that are not only delicious but also ideal for serving in larger quantities. Prepare to impress your guests with these crowd-pleasers that celebrate the diverse and rich heritage of Asian cooking.

 

Spicy Korean BBQ Beef

While planning your next event, consider the tantalizing and robust flavors of Spicy Korean BBQ Beef. Known for its rich, savory taste and kick of heat, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also an exciting addition to your catering menu. By incorporating this vibrant cuisine, you elevate the guest experience with a dish that truly represents the heart of Korean flavors.

Marinated in Gochujang Sauce

Spicy Korean BBQ Beef is marinated in a unique blend of gochujang sauce, a traditional Korean staple made from fermented red chili pepper. This sauce infuses the beef with a bold, spicy flavor while also balancing sweetness and umami characteristics. The combination of gochujang, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic not only enhances the meat’s tenderness but also brings a depth of flavor that you won’t find in ordinary BBQ. By using high-quality beef cuts, your preparation will result in a tender and juicy dish that is sure to impress your guests.

Moreover, marinating the beef for several hours, or even overnight, allows the flavors to penetrate deeply. This extra time will ensure that every bite of your Korean BBQ beef is mouthwatering and filled with complex tastes. When you present this dish at your event, you’re providing not just food, but a culinary adventure that your guests will remember.

Served with Steamed Rice

One of the best ways to enjoy Spicy Korean BBQ Beef is by serving it with perfectly steamed rice. The fluffy, neutral grains help to balance the heat from the gochujang, making each bite harmonious and satisfying. The rice acts as an excellent foil to the spicy sauce, allowing your guests to fully appreciate the bold flavors without overwhelming their palate. Having a generous portion of rice alongside the beef also makes for a well-rounded meal, providing sustenance as well as pleasure.

This combination not only satisfies hunger but also creates a textural delight on the plate. The softness of the rice complements the tenderness of the marinated beef, providing a mouthfeel that is both comforting and indulgent. When catering your event, offering Spicy Korean BBQ Beef served with steamed rice will leave your guests delighted and craving more, ensuring that your event is a culinary success.

 

Japanese Teriyaki Chicken

Little can captivate your guests quite like the sweet and savory flavors of Japanese Teriyaki Chicken. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings authentic Asian cuisine to your event, making it an excellent choice for catering. With its glossy, caramelized sauce and succulent chicken, Teriyaki Chicken offers a delightful balance of taste and presentation that will keep your guests returning for more. With easy preparation methods and endless versatility, this dish is a convenient yet delicious option for both small gatherings and large events alike.

Grilled to Perfection

You will want to ensure that your Teriyaki Chicken is grilled to perfection, as this cooking method helps to enhance the dish’s flavors. Marinating the chicken in a traditional teriyaki sauce made from soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar allows the meat to absorb rich, complex flavors. Once marinated, grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth, transforming it into a delightful centerpiece for your catering spread. This method not only locks in moisture, keeping the chicken juicy, but also creates beautiful grill marks that enhance the visual appeal.

Additionally, grilling helps achieve that slightly charred texture, which contrasts beautifully with the glossy teriyaki sauce. By keeping an eye on the temperature as you grill, you can ensure that each piece cooks evenly and reaches the optimal level of doneness. Guests will appreciate the tantalizing aroma wafting through the air, setting the stage for an appetizing dining experience.

Served with Stir-Fried Veggies

The beauty of Teriyaki Chicken is further elevated when it is served alongside fresh stir-fried vegetables. This bright assortment not only adds vibrant color to your platter but ensures a well-rounded meal that balances flavors and textures. Vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas complement the chicken beautifully, absorbing the teriyaki sauce and becoming a perfect pairing for each bite. When you prepare this dish, your guests will appreciate the delightful contrast of the sweet chicken and the crispiness of the fresh vegetables.

As an added benefit, the stir-fried veggies contribute imperative nutrients and can appeal to a range of dietary preferences. Including a variety of colors and types of vegetables can enhance both the nutritional profile and visual appeal of your dish. Not only will this make your catering spread more exciting, but also offer an array of flavors and textures that keep your guests engaged and satisfied with each bite.

 

Thai Green Curry Shrimp

Clearly, Thai Green Curry Shrimp is a dish that can elevate any catering event with its vibrant flavors and aromatic qualities. This dish not only offers a delightful taste but also presents beautifully, making it a perfect addition to your menu. The combination of tender shrimp simmered in a rich green curry sauce will surely please attendees, providing them with a memorable culinary experience that keeps them coming back for more.

Creamy Coconut Milk Base

While many Thai dishes are known for their complex flavors, the creamy coconut milk base in Thai Green Curry Shrimp is one of the standout features. The coconut milk lends a rich and velvety texture to the dish while balancing the aromatic heat of green curry paste. As you plan your catering menu, consider how this luscious base can not only enhance the flavor of the shrimp but also complement a variety of side dishes, allowing your guests to savor the full spectrum of Thai cuisine.

While incorporating shrimp, you’ll find that the coconut milk also allows the natural sweetness of the seafood to shine through, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This dish can cater to various palates and is easily adjustable; you can tweak the spice level to accommodate your guests’ preferences, while still maintaining its signature creamy essence.

Fresh Basil and Lime

Base flavors can often define a dish, but the addition of fresh basil and lime is what truly enhances the experience of Thai Green Curry Shrimp. The aromatic, slightly peppery notes of fresh basil are critical, offering a delightful freshness that cuts through the richness of the coconut milk. Additionally, a squeeze of lime adds a bright acidity, elevating the dish to new heights and making it even more refreshing, perfect for any event.

Creamy and aromatic, the pairing of fresh basil and lime not only boosts the flavor profile but also adds visual appeal, making your catering presentation pop. You might choose to garnish your Thai Green Curry Shrimp with whole basil leaves and lime wedges, inviting your guests to enjoy not only a culinary treat but also a feast for their eyes. This dynamic duo of ingredients ensures that the dish feels light and invigorating, a winning combination for any gathering.

 

Chinese Kung Pao Chicken

Despite its origins in Sichuan Province, Kung Pao Chicken has become a beloved staple in Chinese cuisine worldwide. Known for its bold flavors and delightful combination of textures, this dish is perfect for your next catered event. With tender chicken pieces stir-fried with vibrant vegetables and crunchy peanuts, Kung Pao Chicken is sure to impress your guests, making it a fantastic choice for any gathering.

Spicy Peanuts and Scallions

An vital component of Kung Pao Chicken is the spicy peanuts that add a crunchy texture and a pop of flavor. The combination of the peanuts and seasoned chicken mixed in a mouth-watering sauce creates a harmonious taste experience that will leave your guests craving more. The dish is often topped with fresh scallions, which not only add a burst of color but also a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the sauce. Selecting high-quality peanuts and fresh scallions will elevate this dish, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone at your event.

Steamed Broccoli on Side

Kung Pao Chicken pairs exceptionally well with steamed broccoli, a vibrant vegetable that adds nutrition and flavor to your meal. The bright green color of steamed broccoli, along with its tender yet crisp texture, creates a wonderful contrast to the savory chicken and peanuts. Including a side of steamed broccoli not only enhances the visual appeal of your presentation but also adds a healthful aspect, making it a thoughtful choice for catering.

Kung Pao Chicken with steamed broccoli is a versatile dish that can cater to a variety of dietary preferences. By offering this classic alongside a healthy green, you ensure that your guests have a balanced meal that satisfies both palates and nutrition needs. Moreover, the steamed broccoli acts as a fantastic vessel for shoveling up the delicious Kung Pao sauce, making every bite a delightful experience for your guests.

Scallions play a subtle yet impactful role in Kung Pao Chicken. As a garnish, they provide a fresh and oniony flavor that complements the dish beautifully. Their vibrant green color not only elevates the plate’s aesthetic but also ensures that each forkful bursts with layers of flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience for you and your guests.

 

Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Unlike many other appetizers, Vietnamese spring rolls offer a refreshing, guilt-free option that can elevate any catering event. These rolls, known as “Gỏi cuốn,” are a harmonious blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and protein wrapped in rice paper, resulting in a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Their versatility allows you to customize them for various dietary preferences, making them a safe and popular choice for catering occasions where diverse tastes are present.

Crunchy Vegetarian Delight

Little do many realize, the vegetarian version of Vietnamese spring rolls is a crunchy delight that can satisfy even the most ardent meat lovers. These rolls are typically filled with a vibrant array of ingredients like crisp lettuce, julienned carrots, cucumber, and fresh herbs such as mint and cilantro. Not only are they pleasing to the palate, but they also provide a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the chewy texture of the rice paper. This makes them an excellent choice for nutritious snacking at your event while catering to those who prefer plant-based options.

Served with Peanut Sauce

For a truly authentic experience, Vietnamese spring rolls are often served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce that complements the fresh flavors beautifully. This sauce typically combines roasted peanuts with hoisin sauce, lime juice, and chili, creating a delightful balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes. The peanut sauce not only enhances the taste of the spring rolls but also adds a touch of indulgence that will leave your guests asking for more.

For instance, having this delectable peanut sauce available at your catering event can elevate the overall dining experience. Its creamy texture and nutty flavor can enhance the freshness of the spring rolls, providing a luxurious dip that your guests will savor. Whether you are hosting a casual gathering or a formal event, the combination of your spring rolls with this unforgettable peanut sauce will ensure your dishes are memorable and leave your guests fully satisfied.

 

Indonesian Nasi Goreng

Now, if you’re searching for a vibrant and flavorsome dish to elevate your next catering event, look no further than Indonesian Nasi Goreng. This beloved fried rice dish is often hailed as the unofficial national dish of Indonesia and brings a beautiful mix of spices, vegetables, and proteins to the table. Its unique blend of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors will delight your guests and leave a lasting impression. Preparing Nasi Goreng for your event will not only cater to the palate but also introduce your guests to the rich culinary heritage of Indonesia.

Fried Rice with Shrimp

Fried rice with shrimp is a standout option within Indonesian Nasi Goreng. This crowd-pleaser combines fluffy fried rice with succulent shrimp, which adds a delightful oceanic flavor to the dish. As you prepare this variation, you’ll sauté shrimp in a medley of garlic, shallots, and sambal oelek, providing a perfect depth of flavor. The rice is typically seasoned with sweet soy sauce, creating a beautiful balance that pairs well with the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

Moreover, you can elevate this dish by incorporating fresh vegetables like peas, carrots, and bell peppers for color and texture. Serve it straight from the wok to your guests, allowing them to relish the aromatic steam that rises from this delicious dish. Whether it’s a formal function or a casual gathering, fried rice with shrimp is sure to satisfy a variety of tastes.

Fried Egg and Chilies

Even the simplest ingredients shine in Nasi Goreng, as highlighted by the fried egg topped with chilies. The addition of a perfectly fried egg brings richness and creaminess that complements the spiced rice beautifully. This presentation not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds an extra layer of flavor that your guests will surely appreciate. A sprinkle of sliced chilies provides the needed kick, making every bite a delightful explosion of taste.

In addition to providing an attractive garnish, adding fried egg and chilies allows for customization according to your guests’ preferences. If they prefer a milder flavor, you can easily adjust the quantity of chilies or even omit them altogether. This flexibility ensures that you cater to various spice tolerance levels while still maintaining the integrity of this traditional dish. Incorporating fried egg and chilies into your Nasi Goreng presentation will make it feel authentic and truly representative of Indonesian culinary culture.

 

Singaporean Hainanese Chicken

To impress your guests at your next event, consider serving Hainanese Chicken, one of Singapore’s most beloved culinary treasures. This dish is a masterful balance of flavors and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for catering. Originating from Hainan, China, it’s been adapted and perfected in Singapore, where it’s often accompanied by fragrant rice and a variety of sauces. Offering this dish guarantees a delightful and comforting experience that guests will remember.

Poached Chicken and Rice

Poached chicken is the centerpiece of Hainanese Chicken. The chicken is gently simmered in a flavorful broth until it is tender and juicy, retaining its moisture and taste. This careful cooking technique ensures that each bite melts in your mouth, showcasing the natural flavors of the chicken. Served alongside fragrant jasmine rice, which has been cooked in the same broth, the dish creates a wonderfully cohesive dining experience. The rice is often just as popular as the chicken itself, absorbing all the excellent savory notes from the poaching liquid.

In addition to being the star dish, Hainanese chicken can easily be added to your catering menu, catering to various dietary preferences. You can provide the option of using skinless chicken for a lighter touch or offering organic or free-range chickens to appeal to health-conscious clients. Regardless of how you present it, you’ll be sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Spicy Chili Sauce

For those who enjoy a little kick, spicy chili sauce is the perfect complement to Hainanese Chicken. This bright and flavorful condiment is typically made from a blend of fresh chilies, garlic, vinegar, and sugar. The combination might vary slightly depending on who’s crafting it, but the end result is always a vibrant sauce that enhances the dish without overpowering it. The sauce adds an exciting depth of flavor that brings out the richness of the poached chicken, elevating your catering experience.

A great way to spice up your catering event is by providing your guests with a variety of dipping sauces, including the spicy chili sauce. You can consider offering a milder sauce for those who may not enjoy too much heat, alongside the chili to ensure that everyone gets to enjoy the dish at their level of preference. This versatility not only showcases traditional Singaporean flavors but also adds an interactive dining element that your guests are sure to appreciate.

 

Malaysian Satay Chicken/ Shrimp

Once again, if you’re looking to impress your guests with a crowd-pleasing dish at your next event, Malaysian Satay Chicken is an excellent choice. Combining marinated grilled meat with a rich peanut dip, this dish has been a favorite in Malaysian cuisine for decades, and it’s sure to make a lasting impression on your guests.

Grilled Meat Skewers

You’ll love how simple yet satisfying grilled meat skewers are at any event. The primary ingredient, chicken or shrimp, is marinated in a delightful mix of spices such as turmeric, coriander, and cumin, allowing those flavors to infuse the meat deeply. Skewering the marinated meat and then grilling them to perfection not only adds a charred smoky note but also gives them an attractive presentation that your guests will find irresistible.

The beauty of satay is in its versatility. While chicken is the traditional choice, you can easily adapt the recipe by swapping out the meat for beef, lamb, or even tofu for vegetarian options. The skewers are easy to handle, making them a mess-free option for your catering needs, which means your guests can enjoy savory bites without the fuss.

Peanut Sauce for Dipping

Peanut sauce plays a crucial role in the experience of enjoying Malaysian Satay Chicken. Peanut sauce is a creamy and rich accompaniment that takes the grilled skewers to the next level. You’ll find that the base of the sauce typically includes ground peanuts, coconut milk, soy sauce, and a hint of lime juice, providing a perfect balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors.

Plus, this dipping sauce can be made ahead of time, saving you valuable prep time on the day of your event. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can adjust the spice level according to your guests’ preferences, whether you want to keep it mild or add a bit of heat with some chili paste. Offering Malaysian Satay Chicken with a side of this delectable peanut sauce guarantees a memorable dining experience that your guests will rave about long after your event is over.

 

Filipino Adobo Chicken

After exploring various cuisines, you may find yourself captivated by the robust and savory flavors of Filipino Adobo Chicken. This dish combines marinated chicken with a distinct blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, making it an irresistible choice for your next catered event. Not only is it easy to prepare in large batches, but its bold flavors are sure to leave your guests craving more. Adobo has earned its place as one of the Philippines’ national dishes, showcasing a culinary heritage that has been passed down through generations.

Soy Sauce and Vinegar

To capture the essence of Adobo, the balance between soy sauce and vinegar is fundamental. This combination not only tenderizes the chicken but also infuses it with salty and tangy notes that are characteristic of Filipino cuisine. Your choice between different types of soy sauce—be it dark or light—can significantly alter the dish’s flavor profile, offering you the opportunity to customize it to your liking. Additionally, the vinegar, often made from cane or coconut, contributes a distinct sharpness that cuts through the richness of the meat, creating a harmonious flavor that is hard to resist.

Steamed Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice is an important accompaniment to Filipino Adobo Chicken, providing a perfect canvas to soak up the sauce and flavors of the dish. This aromatic rice variety, known for its slightly nutty flavor and fluffy texture, enhances the overall dining experience. When served together, the tender chicken and fragrant rice create a comforting meal that celebrates the essence of Filipino home-cooked food.

For instance, when you’re planning your catering menu, consider the importance of serving Adobo Chicken with well-cooked jasmine rice. The rice not only complements the dish visually but also functions as a neutral base to balance the bold flavors of the Adobo. You might even add a garnish of fresh herbs or a dash of lime to elevate the dish, making it both delicious and photogenic for your guests. With this pairing, you ensure that their culinary experience is satisfying and fulfilling, marking your event as memorable.

 

Asian Food Catering Conclusion

Presently, when it comes to catering your next event, choosing the right cuisine can make all the difference in creating a memorable experience for your guests. The top 10 Asian dishes highlighted in this guide not only offer a delightful array of flavors, but they also cater to a variety of dietary preferences and occasions. Whether you opt for comforting Japanese sushi, zesty Thai curries, or savory Chinese dumplings, each dish presents an opportunity to introduce your guests to the rich tapestry of Asian culinary traditions.

As you plan your event, consider the unique appeal that these Asian dishes can bring to your menu. By incorporating them, you not only elevate your catering options but also provide your guests with a true gastronomic journey. Keep in mind, the right selection will not only satisfy appetites but also spark conversation and engagement among attendees, making your event truly unforgettable.