Thanks to my stepmom, who is of Chinese-Malaysian descent, many of my dishes are Asian-inspired. She got me started in the kitchen in my early teens, and I've continued to make her proud. I love incorporating Asian flavors into my clean recipes and making healthy versions of traditional Chinese and Malaysian dishes.
Because I love them so much, I wanted to share some of my favorite recipes with you. Along with Chinese and Malaysian flavors, you'll find Thai, Japanese, and Mediterranean tastes. Enjoy them with your eyes as well as your mouth!
1. Malaysian Curry Prawns
This is a highly requested dish in my family. I love coming home to the smells of garlic, Malaysian curry, steaming-hot coconut milk, and prawns. Prawns are high in protein and low in fat. Pair them with some brown rice and steamed veggies for a balanced and very tasty meal.
2. Singapore Chicken Rice
Singapore's national signature dish is chicken rice. To most dieters and competitors, this recipe probably sounds bland and all too familiar. But Singapore chicken rice has one special component: the sauce. The yummy sauce ties all the ingredients together and sets the recipe apart from your usual chicken and rice fare. I took a crack at this recipe, thanks to my stepmom, and I came up with an even healthier version with a few minor adjustments.
3. Thai Spicy Beef Salad
One of my all-time favorite summer salads is this Thai Spicy Beef Salad. It's clean, fresh, and loaded with flavor! So fire up the grill and impress your meat-loving guests with this zesty, protein-packed salad.
4. Japanese Sushi Bowl
Sushi is my usual meal option when I'm dining out because I can usually stick with simple, clean sashimi, substitute brown rice, or have cucumber-wrapped rolls. I was determined to recreate a sushi bowl at home on my low-carb day, and this little recipe was the result. Even the rice-lover at home was impressed by the cauliflower "rice." The key is to add some zesty flavors to the cauliflower when making the rice—it's much more palatable that way.
5. Mediterranean Fish
This is a great dish to prepare family style on a big platter for everyone to share. It's bursting with Mediterranean flavors and has become a new favorite of mine. Use fresh fish! For a complete meal, serve it with brown rice.