Peanut Butter Noodles are a flavorful journey through Eastern cuisine, delivering a perfect balance between sweet, savory, and spicy. They are an excellent showcase of how simple ingredients can be transformed into something deliciously complex and satisfying. These noodles carry a hint of umami thanks to ingredients like soy sauce and sesame oil, while maple syrup or agave brings a touch of sweetness. Sriracha introduces a mild heat, making each mouthful a rich, savory experience that is hard to resist. This dish is perfect for those who appreciate the seamless blend of flavors found in Asian-inspired cuisine. It’s a simple yet impressive recipe perfect for a weekday meal or a potluck party.
Ingredients About Peanut Butter Noodles
List of Ingredients with Measurements
- 1/2 pack rice noodles, or approximately 7oz (can use brown rice noodles)
- 1 tbsp avocado oil, can substitute vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- Sesame seeds to top
- 3 tbsp peanut butter
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave
- 2 tsp sriracha
- 2-4 tbsp water
Optional Ingredient Substitutions
- Noodles: Regular pasta or whole wheat noodles can be used in place of rice noodles for those who prefer or have different dietary requirements.
- Oil: Olive oil can be a substitute for avocado oil if you prefer its flavor or have it on hand.
- Sweetener: Honey can replace maple syrup or agave for a different kind of sweetness, though it is not vegan.
- Sriracha: Any hot sauce or chili paste can replace sriracha to suit individual spice preferences.
- Soy Sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos can be used for gluten-free alternatives or to adjust for dietary needs.
How to Make Peanut Butter Noodles Directions
Step 1: Preparing the Noodles
Start by cooking the rice noodles according to the package directions. Typically, this involves boiling water, adding the noodles, and cooking them until just tender. To ensure the best texture, it’s advisable to slightly undercook the noodles since they will continue to cook in the pan with the sauce. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Step 2: Mixing the Sauce
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the sauce ingredients: peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup or agave, and sriracha. Add 2 tablespoons of water to help mix the ingredients into a smooth sauce. Stir until well combined, creating a creamy base that will coat the noodles gloriously. Adjust the consistency with more water if needed.
Step 3: Cooking the Aromatics
Heat the avocado oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped green onions and finely chopped garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and just begin to soften. The onions and garlic create a flavorful base that adds depth to the dish.
Step 4: Combining the Noodles and Sauce
Add the rice noodles and prepared peanut sauce to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and the ingredients are well distributed. If the noodles start to stick, add 2-4 tablespoons of water to help with mixing. Continue cooking just until everything is heated through.
Step 5: Final Touches
Transfer the noodles to serving dishes and top them with additional green onions and sesame seeds for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Your Peanut Butter Noodles are ready to be enjoyed!
How to Serve Peanut Butter Noodles
Best Ways to Serve Peanut Butter Noodles
Peanut Butter Noodles can be enjoyed straight from the skillet for a quick, satisfying meal. They are perfect for lunch or dinner and are often complemented by fresh or steamed vegetables for added nutrition and variety. Whether served as a main dish or a side, their robust flavors make them an ideal choice for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your Peanut Butter Noodles with a light, crisp salad dressed with a sesame ginger vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp. A chilled glass of Riesling or a light lager can also complement the meal beautifully, enhancing the dish’s flavors.
How to Store Peanut Butter Noodles
Proper Storage Methods
Store any leftover Peanut Butter Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be consumed within three days to maintain their freshness and flavor quality.
Tips for Reheating or Freezing
To reheat, you can use a microwave or a skillet. Add a splash of water or a drizzle of sesame oil to help restore the noodles’ texture and flavor while heating. Peanut Butter Noodles aren’t ideal for freezing due to texture changes in the noodles, but if needed, ensure they are fully cooled before freezing in an airtight container.
Tips to Make Peanut Butter Noodles
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the noodles, which can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, slightly undercook them in the initial cooking step. Another pitfall is not thoroughly mixing the sauce ingredients, which can result in an uneven flavor distribution.
Helpful Tips for Better Results
For a more complex flavor, consider lightly toasting the sesame seeds before using them for garnish. If you prefer a creamier sauce, coconut milk can be added to the peanut sauce, resulting in a rich, velvety finish. Adjust the spice level by playing around with the amount of sriracha or substituting a milder hot sauce if desired.
Variation of Peanut Butter Noodles
Suggested Variations or Twists on the Recipe
For a crunchy texture, add roasted peanuts or cashews on top along with the sesame seeds. Incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or broccoli by stirring them into the skillet with the onions and garlic. Giving your noodles a more protein-rich profile can be achieved by adding grilled chicken, beef strips, or marinated tofu.
Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
For those following a gluten-free diet, ensure all ingredients, particularly soy sauce, are certified gluten-free. Vegans can keep the recipe as is, but vegetarians might find satisfaction by incorporating scrambled eggs or paneer.
FAQs
What Can I Do if the Dish Isn’t Turning Out Right?
If the noodles are clumping together, try adding more water to the sauce while mixing. A bit more oil can also help in reducing stickiness. For a sauce that’s too thick, incorporate more water or even a bit of broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. While the noodles are best cooked fresh, they can be prepared and stored with the sauce a day in advance. Be sure to store them separately if possible to preserve the texture.
What Can I Substitute for Ingredients?
Alternative butters like almond or cashew can replace peanut butter for a different flavor profile. If soy sauce is a concern due to sodium or gluten, tamari or coconut aminos are great substitutes. For oil, any neutral oil will work, like canola or grapeseed oil.
