Asian BBQ Meal Prep

Asian BBQ meal prep is perfect for the summer. It may not cool you down but it’ll make you forget about the heat. The bold, deep flavors are unique from American bbq and just as delicious. In some ways it can be easier and quicker but Asian BBQ has its own lessons to learn. This BBQ can also include grilled vegetables for a more nutritious meal. Explore a new addition to your meal routine with our tips and recipes.

This is only scratching the surface of Asian BBQ meal prep insights and options. There is a long history and tons of recipes so let this be an introduction, a taste of what is Asian BBQ.

What Is Asian BBQ?

Asian BBQ meal prep is unique to a region and the exact approach, sauces, spices, and flavors vary wildly. Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines all have their own take on BBQ. While American BBQ is slow-smoked, often with dry rubs but marinades are very popular as well. Asian BBQ focuses on marinades, quick grilling, and soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and chili paste to deliver big flavors.

Balance Heat & Sweetness: Asian BBQ thrives on balance—don’t go too spicy or too sweet.

How Asian BBQ Differs from American BBQ

From cooking method to sauces and flavors, American BBQ and Asian BBQ are delicious in their own ways.

Feature	Asian BBQ	American BBQ
Cooking Method	Quick grilling, stir-frying	Slow smoking, indirect heat
Flavor Profile	Umami, sweet, spicy, savory	Smoky, tangy, sweet
Sauces	Soy-based, fermented, spicy	Tomato or vinegar-based
Meats	Thin cuts, often marinated raw	Ribs, brisket, pulled pork
Side Dishes	Rice, pickles, herbs	Coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread

Asian BBQ Meal Prep

1. Choose Your Proteins

Pick grill-friendly proteins that marinate well:

• Chicken thighs or breasts: chicken thighs can be a great option for grilling as the additional fat adds flavor and moisture. They’re also typically more affordable.
  
• Pork belly or pork shoulder: pork shoulder can be a great affordable option. A little tougher but sliced thin can be easier to work with.
  
• Beef short ribs (e.g., Korean galbi): beef short ribs are versatile and delicious.
  
• Shrimp or firm tofu for lighter options: BBQ shrimp is always delicious but firm tofu is a fantastic Asian BBQ recipe unique compared to American options.
  

2. Marinate for Tenderness & Flavor

Marinating can help tenderize and flavor your protein. The longer you can marinate for the more tender and deep the flavor will penetrate. The tougher the protein the longer you should marinate, aim for between 4 hours and overnight. 

3. Add Sides

Pair your proteins with:

• Jasmine or sticky rice: get a rice cooker to make your life much easier.
  
• Stir-fried or grilled vegetables (bok choy, bell peppers, mushrooms): all of these veggies are a great choice but our personal favorite is bok choy.
  
• Pickled veggies (kimchi, daikon, carrots): kimchi pairs well with BBQ, adding flavor that cuts through the umami.
  

4. Sauce & Store Separately

Store dipping sauces or glazes separately to avoid soggy meals. Add them fresh before eating.

Asian BBQ Marinade and Sauces

Chinese

Char Siu Marinade (Chinese BBQ Pork)

• Flavor: Sweet, savory, slightly sticky
• Best for: Pork shoulder, pork belly, or ribs

Soy-Garlic Marinade (Northern-style)

• Flavor: Savory, garlicky, mildly sweet
• Best for: Chicken thighs, pork chops, or tofu

Korean

Bulgogi Marinade

• Flavor: Sweet, savory, garlicky, and slightly fruity
• Best for: Ribeye, sirloin, or brisket (thinly sliced beef)

Dak Galbi Marinade

• Flavor: Spicy, smoky, rich, slightly sweet
• Best for: Boneless chicken thighs or breasts

Thai

Gai Yang Marinade

• Flavor: Savory, aromatic, slightly sweet, with lemongrass and garlic
• Best for: Chicken thighs, drumsticks, or whole spatchcocked chicken

Moo Ping Marinade

• Flavor: Sweet, smoky, and slightly garlicky
• Best for: Pork shoulder or collar, thinly sliced

Vietnamese

Thịt Nướng Marinade (Grilled Lemongrass Pork)

• Flavor: Sweet, savory, aromatic (lemongrass-forward)
• Best for: Pork shoulder, pork chops, or pork belly (sliced)

Bò Nướng Sả Marinade (Grilled Lemongrass Beef)

• Flavor: Bold, savory, lightly sweet with lemongrass heat
• Best for: Flank steak, sirloin, or beef skewers

Essential Asian BBQ Ingredients

• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• Rice vinegar
• Hoisin sauce
• Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
• Oyster sauce
• Fish sauce

Aromatics & Spices

• Garlic
• Ginger
• Scallions
• Chili flakes or fresh chilies
• Brown sugar or honey (for sweetness)
• Lemongrass (Vietnamese/Thai BBQ)

Key Sauces for Asian BBQ

1. Gochujang Glaze
   
   • Gochujang, honey, rice vinegar, garlic
     
2. Thai Sweet Chili Sauce
   
   • Sweet, tangy, mildly spicy
     
3. Japanese Teriyaki Sauce
   
   • Soy sauce, mirin, sugar, sake
     
4. Vietnamese Nuoc Cham
   
   • Fish sauce, lime juice, sugar, chili, garlic

Asian BBQ Meal Prep Recipes