The Best Asian Cooking Gear: Must-Have Tools for Delicious Dishes

I’ve always been fascinated by the art of Asian cuisine, and over the years, I’ve learned that having the right cooking gear can make a world of difference. Whether you’re a newbie to Asian cooking or, like me, who have been exploring it for a while, the right tools can truly transform your kitchen experience.

The vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and unique cooking methods used in Asian cooking are simply unmatched, but achieving those authentic results at home requires the right equipment.

Let me share with you some of my favorite pieces of Asian cooking gear that have taken my home-cooked meals to the next level.

Essential Cookware

Wok

One of the first things I invested in when I started my Asian cooking journey was a wok or a deep frying pan. This deep, round-bottomed pan has become the workhorse of my kitchen. I use it for everything — stir-frying, deep-frying, steaming, and even smoking food.

I went with a carbon steel wok because it’s lightweight, heats up in no time, and, after a bit of use, it develops a natural non-stick surface. Plus, there’s something satisfying about the “wok hei” flavor you can achieve when cooking over high heat.

The best thing about a carbon steel wok is how quickly it heats up and distributes heat evenly, which is crucial for getting that delicious sear on stir-fry dishes.

My Tip: I always make sure to season my wok before its first use. It prevents food from sticking and enhances the flavor over time. Plus, I love seeing that dark patina develop with every dish I cook.

Rice Cooker

If there’s one appliance I rely on almost daily, it’s my rice cooker. From fluffy jasmine rice to sticky sushi rice, it ensures perfectly cooked grains every single time.

I’ve found that a high-quality rice cooker does so much more than just cook rice. Mine has settings for porridge, steaming veggies, and even slow cooking soups.

After some research, I went for a rice cooker with fuzzy logic technology. It automatically adjusts cooking times and temperatures, which makes a big difference when I’m experimenting with different types of rice. I especially appreciate how easy it is to make a comforting pot of congee on cold mornings.

My Tip: Rinsing the rice thoroughly before cooking has been a game-changer for me. It removes excess starch and results in fluffier, lighter rice every time.

Cooking Utensils and Tools

Wok Spatula

My wok is one of the most essential tools in my kitchen, but I quickly realized that a wok spatula is just as crucial. This long, flat utensil is perfect for my stir fry recipe, allowing me to effortlessly toss ingredients and ensure everything cooks evenly.

The best ones have heat-resistant handles, which protect my hands when I’m working over high heat, and non-stick coatings that make stirring a breeze.

I use my wok spatula for everything from stir-fry and fried rice to sautéing veggies and flipping pieces of crispy tofu. It’s a must-have if you’re serious about Asian cooking.

My Tip: When shopping for a wok spatula, look for one with a slightly curved edge. It helps scoop and toss ingredients more efficiently, especially when cooking large batches.

Cooking Chopsticks

Asian cooking wouldn’t be the same without my trusty cooking chopsticks. These are longer than regular eating chopsticks, making them perfect for stir-frying, deep-frying, and serving hot dishes.

I love using them to turn delicate foods like tempura or fish fillets without breaking them. Mine are made of durable wood, but I’ve seen great options in stainless steel and heat-resistant plastic as well.

I recommend choosing a pair with non-stick coatings for easy cleaning and better grip. They’ve become indispensable for everything from stirring noodles to plating sushi rolls.

My Tip: If you’re new to using cooking chopsticks, practice with easier tasks like tossing salads. Once you get the hang of it, they’re incredibly versatile.

Cleaver

One of my absolute favorite tools is my cleaver, also known as a Chinese chef’s knife. It’s my go-to knife for chopping and mincing everything from meat to veggies.

I opted for a stainless steel cleaver because it’s durable and easy to maintain, but carbon steel versions are also excellent if you don’t mind a bit of extra care.

I use my cleaver for prepping stir-fry ingredients, smashing garlic, and even slicing through bones when I’m making stocks. Traditionally used in Chinese cooking, the cleaver is surprisingly versatile and has streamlined my prep time significantly.

My Tip: Look for a cleaver with a non-stick coating; it makes chopping sticky foods like ginger or garlic much easier. Just a quick rinse, and it’s good to go!

High-Quality Knives

Good knives have completely changed how I approach meal prep. For Asian cooking, having the right knives can make all the difference. I’ve added a few specialized ones to my collection:

Santoku Knife: My go-to for slicing, dicing, and mincing.
Nakiri Knife: Perfect for thinly slicing vegetables.
Chinese Cleaver: It’s my all-in-one tool for chopping, crushing, and even scooping ingredients.

I didn’t realize just how much easier it would be to achieve those paper-thin slices for sashimi or Vietnamese spring rolls until I invested in these knives.

My Tip: I’ve learned that keeping my knives sharp is crucial. A dull knife requires more pressure and is actually more dangerous than a sharp one.

Mortar and Pestle

I’ve tried using a food processor, but nothing beats the flavor intensity I get with a mortar and pestle. There’s something almost therapeutic about crushing herbs, spices, and aromatics by hand. It really brings out the essential oils, creating rich, deep flavors you just can’t replicate with a blender.

I use mine for making curry pastes, spice rubs, and marinades. My granite mortar is heavy, which gives me the leverage I need to grind everything down smoothly. It’s one of those tools I didn’t realize I needed until I had one, and now I can’t imagine cooking without it.

My Tip: To keep it fresh, I always rinse my mortar with a mix of water and vinegar after each use. This prevents it from absorbing strong flavors.

Specialty Cooking Tools

Bamboo Steamer

I can’t talk about my favorite Asian kitchen tools without mentioning my bamboo steamer. Bamboo steamers are perfect for steaming dumplings, buns, and even fish. I love how the bamboo absorbs excess moisture, so there’s no condensation dripping back onto the food. This keeps everything tender without getting soggy.

One of the things I appreciate most is how I can stack multiple layers to steam different foods at once. It’s perfect for family dinners or when I’m having guests over. I usually line the steamer with parchment paper or lettuce leaves to prevent sticking and to add a subtle aroma.

My Tip: Before using it, soak your bamboo steamers in water for a few minutes. This prevents the bamboo from burning and keeps it in good shape.

Sushi Rolling Mat

One of my favorite ways to unwind is to make sushi at home, and my sushi rolling mat is key. I opted for a bamboo one, as it’s lightweight and easy to work with. The non-stick coating prevents the rice from sticking, making the rolling process so much easier.

I use my mat for rolling sushi, but I’ve also found it handy for shaping other foods, like Korean gimbap or Vietnamese spring rolls.

My Tip: If you’re new to sushi rolling, place a sheet of plastic wrap over the mat before adding your nori and rice. It keeps things clean and makes rolling smoother.

Dumpling Press

Making dumplings by hand can be time-consuming, but a dumpling press makes the process quick and easy. I love using mine to create perfectly shaped dumplings every time, without worrying about them coming apart during cooking. My stainless steel press is durable and easy to clean, which is great after a dumpling-making marathon.

I use it not just for traditional Chinese dumplings but also for making ravioli, pierogi, and even empanadas.

My Tip: Lightly dust the press with flour before using it to prevent the dough from sticking.

Cast Iron Griddle

One of my favorite ways to entertain is to have Korean BBQ at home, and my cast iron griddle has been a game-changer for this. It grills meats, seafood, and veggies beautifully, giving them that perfect char while keeping everything juicy.

I love how the cast iron retains heat so well; it’s like bringing the restaurant experience right to my dining table.

My Tip: I always preheat the griddle and lightly oil it before grilling. This prevents sticking and helps create that mouthwatering sear on the meat.

Cooking Accessories

Bamboo Cutting Board

I’ve recently switched to using a bamboo cutting board, and it’s been fantastic. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it’s also gentler on my knives compared to plastic boards. It’s great for chopping everything from veggies to meats, and I love how it looks on my countertop.

My Tip: Choose a bamboo board with a non-stick coating to make cleaning easier. It’s also naturally antibacterial, which is a bonus when dealing with raw ingredients.

Kitchen Shears

I didn’t realize how useful kitchen shears could be until I got a pair. Now, I use them for everything from trimming meats and herbs to opening stubborn packages. They’re great for cutting through the bones of chicken wings or quickly snipping green onions over a dish.

Look for shears with a non-stick coating for easy cleanup. Mine are stainless steel, which makes them durable and dishwasher safe.

My Tip: I keep my shears separate for food use only to ensure they stay sharp and hygienic.

Soy Sauce Dispenser

This might sound simple, but having a soy sauce dispenser has made such a difference in my kitchen. It helps me control how much soy sauce I use without making a mess. I opted for a ceramic one that keeps the sauce fresh and protects it from light, which can degrade its quality.

My Tip: I’ve started buying premium soy sauce brands, and I can really taste the difference. A small amount goes a long way, so it’s worth the investment.

Mandoline Slicer

I love using my mandoline slicer for getting those perfectly uniform slices of veggies, especially for a hot pot and salads. It’s quick and efficient, saving me tons of prep time, especially when I’m cooking for a crowd. I use it for everything from slicing daikon radish to cutting potatoes for crispy Korean pancakes.

My Tip: Safety first! I always use the hand guard that came with my mandoline. It’s worth it to protect my fingers, especially when slicing thinly at high speed.

Cooking Appliances

Instant Pot

The Instant Pot has completely changed how I cook, especially when making Asian-style dishes like braises, curries, and even hot pot. It’s perfect for those nights when I’m craving comfort food but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. I love how versatile it is—whether I’m pressure-cooking meats or slow-cooking broths, it always delivers.

My Tip: Use the sauté function to brown your ingredients before pressure cooking. It adds an extra layer of flavor that makes a big difference.

Air Fryer

I’ve recently added an air fryer to my kitchen arsenal, and I can’t recommend it enough. It’s great for making crispy spring rolls, tempura, or even Korean fried chicken with way less oil. The non-stick basket makes cleanup a breeze, and I love how quickly it cooks everything.

My Tip: To get an extra crispy texture, lightly coat your ingredients with a bit of cornstarch or flour before air frying.

Asian cooking has become one of my favorite hobbies at home, especially with the right tools by my side. From my trusty wok to my versatile Instant Pot, these pieces of gear have made all the difference in my kitchen. Whether I’m making a hot pot, rolling sushi, or steaming dumplings, each tool has its place in my cooking routine.

Investing in quality kitchen tools has not only made Asian cooking more enjoyable but also inspired me to try new recipes and flavors. I hope sharing my experiences with these tools encourages you to experiment in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!