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I don’t know when it happened but at some point I fell in love with the flavors of eastern and southeast asian cuisine. Most people consider items like olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce as kitchen staples, but I would argue that ingredients like hoisin, rice vinegar, fish sauce, and sesame oil are just as important.
Today I want to share about my 4 favorite east and southeast Asian pantry staples and share a takeout inspired menu with you.
Only care about the weekly menu? Scroll down!
1. Hoisin
Hoisin sauce originated in China and is commonly used in Cantonese cuisine. I love this sauce brushed on meats prior to roasting or grilling. Another great thing is that it has a shelf life of about 18 months when stored properly (but I promise it won’t last you that long).
2. Fish Sauce
I would say that fish sauce has an aquired taste, but once you try the many amazing recipes that uses it, you will be hooked! It has been used in Greek and Chinese food but it is also commonly found in Vietnamese cooking. It has a shelf life of 2-3 years.
3. Rice Vinegar
Rice vinegar is another staple vinegar to add to your pantry. It easily elevates rice, seafood, salads, and noodle dishes. It has a shelf life of 2 years.
4. Sesame Oil
It’s one of my favorite oils. Trust me, once you use it you will love it too! A little bit goes a long way so be sure not to use too much! Has a shelf life of 6 months in the pantry or 12 months in the refrigerator.
This Week’s Menu
This week’s menu is inspired by my favorite takeout meals! I love recipes that incorproate east Asian ingredients and hope you enjoy them too! I’ve provided you with 6 menu ideas and links to the recipes. All you need to do is write down the ingredients and do the grocery shopping.
Each day includes additional notes, tips, and recommendations to help you prep the meals. Unless noted, all meals are 4 servings.
Sunday
Takeout. Consider giving a new restaurant a try. If you’re local to metro Atlanta check out these local favorites.
Monday
Total Time from Start to Finish: Approximately 45 minutes
Notes and Recommendations: This is a straightforward and simple recipe! Buy a bagged salad for a simple and quick meal.
Tuesday
Total Time from Start to Finish: Approximately 45 minutes.
Notes and Recommendations: You can replace the thai chili with a small red jalapeno.
Wednesday
Total Time from Start to Finish: Approximately 45 minutes.
This recipe serves 2 but it can be doubled to serve 4.
Notes and Recommendations: This recipe incorporates fried chicken. An alternative to frying would be to use an air fryer.
Meal Prep Tips: This is a Marley Spoon recipe so the recipe does a great job of breaking down the steps.
Thursday
Total Time from Start to Finish: Approximately 30 minutes.
Notes and Recommendations: If you don’t have acess to napa cabbage you can replace it with green cabbage. Use whatever type of mushrooms work best or you. I typically eat this on flour tourtillas.
Friday
Total Time from Start to Finish: Approximately 45 minutes.
Saturday [Splurge]
Saturday Splurge is a recipe that uses ingredients that you might not typically keep in your pantry. If you don’t want to cook on Saturday, then don’t. Go grab some takeout and support a local small business!
Aromatic Pork and Noodle Soup (Pho Inspired)
Total Time from Start to Finish: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.