May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month and there are so many ways to celebrate these diverse and beautiful cultures.

Some ways we can celebrate a little bit of AAPI heritage are...

• Going to museums to learn about the history of these countries and their people
• Reading AAPI authors, watching documentaries or AAPI-inspired shows and movies
• Listening to Asian and Pacific Island music
• OR trying out these delicious dessert recipes from AAPI cultures!

We've collected easy and authentic recipes from chefs and home cooks all with AAPI heritage. Let us know if try any of these recipes!

Ready? Let's go on a culinary adventure!

1. Boba Milk Tea: also known as pearl milk tea, bubble milk tea, tapioca milk tea, or boba tea, or in short - boba! It's a tea-based sweet drink that originated in Taiwan. It has many different varieties, but the classic version is black tea + milk + tapioca balls on the bottom. Perfect sweet drink for spring/summer!

2. Leche Flan: In the Philippines, flan is known as leche flan, and it's a bit more rich consisting of more condensed milk and more egg yolks. Leche flan is a staple Filipino dessert in celebratory feasts. Creamy yummy goodness!

3. Pandan Waffles: Pandan is a tropical plant known for its sweet floral fragrance. This pandan waffle recipe is inspired by Vietnamese culture - with its sweet aroma of pandan, rich coconutty taste, chewy mochi center, and a crispy outer texture.!

4. Mango Sticky Rice: Is a traditional Southeast Asian and South Asian dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango and coconut milk. One of my favorite Thai dishes! 

5. Gulab Jamun: is a classic Indian dessert made with milk, sugar, rose water, and cardamom powder. It is enjoyed in most festive and celebratory meals, and is a dish that has spread to Pakistan, Nepal, Maldives, Bangladesh, as well as Myanmar.

6. Mochi: Sweet little chewy rice cakes originating from Japan. Mochi is eaten year round, and it's also a traditional food for the Japanese New Year. It's made with a variety of ingredients, fruits, nuts, matcha tea, or sesame. This recipe uses red bean and strawberries. 

7. Malasada: Originating in Portugal, but later brought to Hawaii, is a fried doughnut, coated with sugar and cinnamon. In Hawaii, they have varieties filled with custard, chocolate, haupia, and guava. What a delectable treat! 

8. Bingsu: is a Korean shaved ice dessert with sweet toppings that may include chopped fruit, condensed milk, fruit syrup, and red beans. Perfect for the upcoming summer months!