Peanut Noodles Recipe

Introduction

Peanut noodles are a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings together creamy peanut butter, savory soy sauce, and a variety of fresh vegetables and seasonings. This versatile recipe can be served hot or cold, making it a fantastic option for both warm weather and cozy nights at home. With a rich, nutty sauce that complements perfectly cooked noodles, peanut noodles can be enjoyed as a main course or as a side dish to complement other meals.

Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a dish for a party or gathering, peanut noodles are always a hit. The dish offers the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors, all while being easy to prepare with simple, accessible ingredients. In this recipe guide, we’ll walk you through each step of making peanut noodles, including some fun variations and tips to elevate the dish.

Why You’ll Love Peanut Noodles

• Rich, Creamy Sauce: The creamy peanut butter sauce is what sets these noodles apart. The combination of peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and ginger gives a delightful depth of flavor, while adding a satisfying creaminess to the noodles.
• Quick and Easy: Peanut noodles can be prepared in less than 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights or when you want something hearty and delicious without much effort.
• Customizable: This recipe can be adapted to suit your tastes. You can adjust the level of spice, sweetness, or add your favorite vegetables or proteins to the dish. It’s easy to make it vegetarian or gluten-free as well.
• Perfect for Any Season: Peanut noodles can be served both warm and cold, making them perfect for year-round enjoyment. They’re a great option for warm summer days as a chilled dish or a comforting meal when served warm in the cooler months.
• Packed with Flavor: With ingredients like garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and peanut butter, the noodles are bursting with umami and complexity, making every bite a treat.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45g
• Protein: 8-10g
• Fiber: 3-4g
• Sugar: 6-8g

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz (225g) noodles (such as Chinese wheat noodles, rice noodles, or spaghetti)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil (for sautéing)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• ½ cup peanut butter (smooth or chunky, depending on preference)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili paste (optional for heat)
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for added flavor)

Optional Garnishes and Add-ins:

• 1 cucumber, julienned (for a fresh, crunchy texture)
• 1 carrot, julienned or shredded
• 2-3 green onions, chopped
• Crushed peanuts or cashews (for added crunch)
• Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
• Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (for added protein)
• Lime wedges (for a zesty finish)

Special Equipment

You don’t need specialized equipment to make peanut noodles, but having the right tools will make the process more efficient:

1. Large Pot: You’ll need a large pot to boil your noodles. It should have enough space to comfortably cook the noodles without overcrowding.
2. Colander or Strainer: After cooking your noodles, you’ll need a colander or strainer to drain them and rinse them under cold water if serving cold.
3. Whisk: A small whisk is essential to combine the peanut sauce ingredients and ensure they are smooth and evenly mixed.
4. Cutting Board and Knife: A sharp knife and cutting board are necessary for chopping vegetables, proteins, and garnishes.
5. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements ensure your sauce turns out perfectly. Use standard measuring cups and spoons to measure the peanut butter, soy sauce, and other ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add the noodles and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Make sure the noodles are tender but still have a slight bite.

Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, especially if you plan to serve the noodles cold. This will also help prevent the noodles from sticking together. After rinsing, drizzle the noodles with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil to prevent sticking, and set them aside.

2. Make the Peanut Sauce

While the noodles are cooking, start preparing the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), sriracha (or chili paste), grated ginger, and minced garlic.

Use a whisk to mix everything together, making sure the peanut butter breaks down smoothly into the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until the sauce reaches a creamy, pourable consistency. Drizzle in the sesame oil to add an extra layer of flavor, and whisk again until fully incorporated.

3. Toss the Noodles with the Peanut Sauce

Once the noodles are cooked and drained, place them in a large mixing bowl. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles and toss gently to coat. The sauce should cover the noodles evenly. If the sauce appears too thick, add a bit more warm water to thin it out, ensuring that the noodles are well-coated without being too sticky.

4. Add Optional Vegetables and Garnishes

For added texture and freshness, you can incorporate vegetables like julienned cucumber and carrots into the noodles. These will provide a crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy peanut sauce.

If you’re looking for extra protein, top the noodles with cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. These additions will enhance the dish’s nutritional value and make it more filling.

Garnish the dish with chopped green onions, crushed peanuts, fresh cilantro leaves, and lime wedges for a burst of flavor and a colorful presentation.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Once the noodles are tossed and garnished, they’re ready to be served! If you prefer warm noodles, enjoy them immediately. For a cold dish, let the noodles cool for a few minutes before placing them in the refrigerator to chill. The dish will keep in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Peanut noodles can be served as a main dish or as a side dish to complement other meals. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, stir-fried vegetables, or Asian-inspired appetizers like spring rolls or dumplings.

Tips for Perfect Peanut Noodles

• Noodles: For the best texture, use noodles that have a bit of chew to them, such as Chinese wheat noodles, soba noodles, or rice noodles. If using spaghetti, make sure the noodles are al dente so they hold up to the sauce.
• Customize the Sauce: Adjust the flavor of the peanut sauce to suit your preferences. For a sweeter sauce, add more honey or maple syrup. For more heat, increase the sriracha or chili paste. Feel free to experiment with the ratio of peanut butter to soy sauce to create the perfect balance.
• Add Protein: While the dish is already flavorful on its own, adding a protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu makes it more substantial and satisfying. This is especially helpful if you’re serving the dish as a main course.
• Serve Chilled or Warm: Peanut noodles are delicious both warm and cold. For a warm version, serve them immediately after tossing with the peanut sauce. For a cold version, chill them in the fridge for 1-2 hours before serving.
• Toss Thoroughly: Make sure the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce. If necessary, use tongs or two spoons to toss the noodles gently, ensuring every strand is covered in the creamy peanut sauce.

Variations of Peanut Noodles

• Spicy Peanut Noodles: If you like your noodles with extra spice, increase the amount of sriracha or chili paste in the sauce. You can also add some chili flakes or chopped fresh chilies as a garnish.
• Peanut Noodles with Veggies: For a more nutritious dish, load up your peanut noodles with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Sautéed or steamed vegetables work well and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Peanut Noodles with Tofu: Tofu is a great vegetarian protein option for peanut noodles. Pan-fry or bake the tofu before adding it to the noodles, or use pre-cooked tofu for a quicker option.
• Cold Peanut Noodles: This variation is perfect for hot summer days. Simply let the noodles cool completely, and chill them in the fridge for an hour before serving. Top with fresh herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing dish.

Storage and Shelf Life

Peanut noodles can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, place them in an airtight container. The noodles will continue to absorb the sauce as they sit, so you may want to add a little more peanut butter or warm water to loosen the sauce before serving again.

For longer storage, you can freeze the peanut noodles. However, freezing may affect the texture of the noodles, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh or within a few days of making them.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Peanut Noodles

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: A side of stir-fried vegetables, such as bok choy, broccoli, or snow peas, adds color and nutrition to your meal.
• Spring Rolls: Pair peanut noodles with fresh or fried spring rolls for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
• Grilled Chicken: Grilled chicken skewers or grilled tofu work well as protein options to complement the noodles.
• Miso Soup: A light miso soup serves as a flavorful and warming side dish to balance out the rich flavors of the peanut noodles.

Print

Conclusion

Peanut noodles are a quick, easy, and delicious meal that offers a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy flavors. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create this satisfying dish at home anytime. Whether served warm or cold, peanut noodles are versatile enough to be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side, and they can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Enjoy this flavorful, comforting dish that will soon become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!