Peanut Butter Noodles Recipe

Noodles: The base of the dish, you can use any type of noodles you prefer, such as spaghetti, rice noodles, or soba.

Peanut butter: Provides a creamy and rich texture to the sauce. Use creamy peanut butter for the best results.

Soy sauce: Adds a salty and umami flavor to balance the sweetness of the peanut butter.

Honey: Brings a touch of sweetness to the sauce, complementing the savory elements.

Rice vinegar: Adds a mild acidity that brightens up the dish.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives a robust and aromatic flavor.

Ginger: Grated ginger adds a zesty and slightly spicy note.

Water: Helps to thin out the sauce to the desired consistency.

Sesame oil: Provides a nutty and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.

Chili sauce: Optional, but adds a spicy kick for those who enjoy heat.

Green onions: Chopped green onions add a fresh and mild onion flavor, perfect for garnish.

Sesame seeds: Used for garnish, they add a slight crunch and a nutty flavor.

When preparing the peanut butter sauce, ensure that the peanut butter is at room temperature. This will make it easier to whisk and achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. If the peanut butter is too thick, you can slightly warm it in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Additionally, when cooking the noodles, be sure to rinse them under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and prevents them from becoming mushy, ensuring they maintain a perfect texture when mixed with the sauce.

• any type noodles - Substitute with zucchini noodles: For a low-carb and gluten-free option.

• creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: For a different nutty flavor and to accommodate peanut allergies.

• soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: For a gluten-free alternative with a similar umami flavor.

• honey - Substitute with maple syrup: For a vegan option and a slightly different sweetness profile.

• rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: For a similar tangy flavor with a bit more fruitiness.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: For convenience and a longer shelf life, use ¼ teaspoon garlic powder per clove.

• grated ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: For convenience, use ¼ teaspoon ground ginger per teaspoon of fresh ginger.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: For added flavor and depth to the sauce.

• sesame oil - Substitute with olive oil: For a different but still rich flavor, though it will lack the distinctive sesame taste.

• chili sauce - Substitute with sriracha: For a similar spicy kick with a bit of garlic flavor.

• chopped green onions - Substitute with chives: For a milder onion flavor and similar color.

• sesame seeds - Substitute with crushed peanuts: For a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor.

• Allow the noodles to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the noodles soggy.
• Transfer the peanut butter noodles to an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the noodles from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The noodles will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• For freezing, place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the noodles have been stored.
• When ready to eat, thaw the noodles in the refrigerator overnight. This ensures even thawing and maintains the texture of the noodles.
• Reheat the noodles in a microwave or on the stovetop. If using a microwave, cover the container with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap to retain moisture. For stovetop reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from drying out.
• Stir the noodles occasionally while reheating to ensure even heating and to re-incorporate the peanut butter sauce.
• Garnish with fresh green onions and sesame seeds before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.

• For the stovetop method, place a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help loosen the peanut butter sauce. Add the noodles and stir frequently until heated through, about 3-5 minutes. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the dish.

• If using a microwave, transfer the noodles to a microwave-safe dish. Add a tablespoon of water or broth to keep the sauce from drying out. Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Continue heating in 30-second intervals until the noodles are warmed to your liking.

• For an oven method, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the noodles in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Add a small amount of water or broth to keep the sauce moist. Bake for about 10-15 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the noodles in an air fryer-safe dish, add a splash of water or broth, and cover with foil. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating.

• For a steamer method, place the noodles in a heatproof dish that fits inside your steamer. Add a small amount of water or broth to the dish. Steam for about 5-7 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through, stirring occasionally. This method helps retain the moisture and texture of the noodles.

• Pot: To cook the noodles according to the package instructions.

• Colander: To drain the cooked noodles after boiling.

• Mixing bowl: To whisk together the peanut butter sauce ingredients.

• Whisk: To mix the peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, water, sesame oil, and chili sauce until smooth.

• Garlic press: To mince the garlic clove efficiently.

• Grater: To grate the ginger for the sauce.

• Measuring cups: To measure the peanut butter and water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: To measure the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili sauce.

• Knife: To chop the green onions for garnish.

• Cutting board: To provide a surface for chopping the green onions.

• Serving bowl: To serve the noodles once they are coated with the sauce.

• Tongs: To toss the noodles with the peanut butter sauce.

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure and chop all ingredients like garlic, ginger, and green onions before you start cooking.

Use quick-cooking noodles: Opt for noodles that cook in under 5 minutes to save time.

Make sauce in advance: Whisk together the peanut butter sauce ingredients and store in the fridge for up to a week.

Microwave peanut butter: Slightly warm the peanut butter in the microwave to make it easier to mix.

One-pot method: Cook the noodles and mix the sauce in the same pot to reduce cleanup time.