Asian American and Pacific Island Heritage Month is celebrated every year in May to acknowledge the history and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders.

The month of May is significant in Asian and Pacific Islander history. May 1843 marked the initial arrival of Japanese immigrants to this country. Also, in May 1869, the completion of the transcontinental railroad occurred, with nearly 20,000 Asian and Pacific Island workers on that monumental project.

The historical, cultural, artistic, and culinary contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are evident each day throughout this country. Food is certainly near the top of the list, as Asian and Pacific Island culinary influences are a vibrant part of the cuisine landscape in the U.S. A respectful (and savory) way to celebrate and acknowledge these contributions during AAPI Heritage Month is by highlighting Asian and Pacific dishes on your menu during the month of May (and any other time of the year).

Here are notable Asian, Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander recipes to incorporate or highlight on your menu this year:

Pani Popo/Samoan coconut rolls. (Samoa) These savory coconut rolls are made of a fluffy yeast roll that has been saturated with sweet coconut syrup and baked until it has a golden crust.

Galbi. (Korea) Grilled short ribs that have been marinated in a mixture of brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and wine rice overnight.

Mince and Cheese Pie. (New Zealand) Known as a source of great pride and the ultimate comfort food in New Zealand, pies are a deep part of the culinary culture. Mince and cheese pie is a quintessential example; it’s made with a filling including mince/ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, mozzarella, and spices, and surrounded by a fluffy pastry pie shell.

Jiaozi/Pork Dumplings. (China) While labor-intensive like homemade perogies, jiaozi dumplings are worth the investment. They’re made with a pork filling combining pork, cabbage, leaves, green onions, mushrooms, ginger roots, carrots, and spices. The dumpling wrapper dough is wetted at the edge with an egg wash, and the filling is placed inside. Then pan fry for a tasty feast.

Butter Chicken. (India) Butter chicken is an Indian chicken dish that combines curry, butter, tomatoes, and a sensational assortment of spices, including sweet paprika, ginger, and masala. Serve with naan for a mild but flavorful dish.

Panang Beef Curry. (Thailand) Panang beef curry combines seared beef bathed in a sauce made of coconut milk, red curry paste, red peppers, peanut butter, fish sauce, cumin, and white pepper.

Miso Glazed Salmon. (Japan) Miso is a savory paste made from rice or soybeans, and when combined with sake and soy, you have a perfect glaze for salmon. Broil the fish and serve with broccoli and rice.

Kalua Pork. (Hawaii) This simple yet unforgettable recipe can be made in your slow cooker with liquid smoke (instead of a traditional Imu). The only ingredients are a good cut of pork shoulder, red Hawaiian sea salt or sea salt with liquid smoke, and banana leaves (only if using a smoker or Imu, as banana leaves are not edible). Slow cook until the meat falls apart for kalua pork perfection.

Tinola. (Philippines) This ginger-infused soup is not only healthy but also hearty—making it great for lunch or dinner. It is made with chicken, spinach, bok choy, and green papaya. Perfect with a side of steamed rice.

Boba Milk Tea. (Taiwan, though unconfirmed). This sweet and creamy milky tea is poured over ice and chewy tapioca/boba pearls, which burst with flavor. This refreshing beverage has endless flavor and pairing options, making it a fun, festive choice all month long.

The Asian Pride brand features sauces represented by several Asian countries, in addition to rice and vegetable varieties, among other options. The portfolio is an excellent and flavorful resource when seeking to honor Asian and Pacific Islander culinary cultures throughout the year.