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This dish is simple and quick. Here is what you will need: - 8 oz. rice noodles - 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup - 2 tablespoons sriracha (adjust to taste) - 1 garlic clove, minced - 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger - 1 cup shredded carrots - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), julienned - 1/2 cup cucumber, julienned These main ingredients create the base of your spicy peanut noodles. The rice noodles give it a nice texture, while the peanut butter adds creaminess and flavor. You can make your dish more exciting with some optional garnishes. Here are a few ideas: - 1 green onion, sliced - 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish) - Fresh cilantro for garnish - Lime wedges for serving These toppings add fresh flavors and a nice crunch. They also make your dish look appealing and colorful. Having the right tools helps make cooking easier. Here’s what you’ll need: - A large pot for boiling noodles - A mixing bowl for the peanut sauce - A whisk for mixing the sauce - A sharp knife and cutting board for veggies Using these tools will help you prepare your spicy peanut noodles smoothly. Enjoy making this quick and flavorful meal! {{ingredient_image_1}} First, grab a large pot and fill it with water. Bring the water to a boil. Add the rice noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to be al dente, which means they should still have a little bite. Once done, drain the noodles in a colander. Rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps them from getting sticky. Set the noodles aside for later. Now, let’s make the peanut sauce. In a medium bowl, add the creamy peanut butter. Next, pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey or maple syrup. Then, add the sriracha. This is where the spice comes in, so adjust it to your taste. Don’t forget the minced garlic and grated ginger! Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth. If it feels too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water. This will help you reach the right consistency. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, julienned bell pepper, and cucumber. Toss them together until mixed well. Now, add the cooked rice noodles to this bowl. Pour the peanut sauce over the top. Toss everything together gently. You want the noodles and veggies to be well coated in that tasty sauce. Once mixed, divide the spicy peanut noodles into serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side. A squeeze of lime adds a fresh kick! To get the right peanut sauce consistency, mix all your ingredients well. Start with creamy peanut butter. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth. If your sauce is thick, add warm water. One tablespoon at a time will help you reach that perfect pourable texture. Cooking rice noodles is easy but needs attention. Use a large pot of boiling water. Add the noodles and cook until just al dente. Check the package instructions for timing. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking and helps them stay firm. This step keeps your noodles from getting mushy. Want to amp up the flavor? Try adding a few extras! Roasted chickpeas or baked tofu can give a nice crunch. You can also add sesame seeds for texture. Fresh herbs like cilantro will brighten up the dish. For a zesty touch, squeeze lime juice over your noodles just before serving. These simple additions can take your spicy peanut noodles to the next level! Pro Tips Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of sriracha or omit it entirely. You can always serve extra on the side for those who like it spicy! Alternative Noodles: You can substitute rice noodles with whole wheat or soba noodles for a different flavor and texture. Just adjust the cooking time as needed. Prep Ahead: The peanut sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This makes meal prep quick and easy! Fresh Herbs Matter: Don’t skip the fresh cilantro! It adds a vibrant flavor that complements the dish beautifully. You can also try adding mint for a refreshing twist. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to spicy peanut noodles. Tofu, chicken, and shrimp work well. For tofu, use firm tofu. Cube it and pan-fry until golden. This adds a nice crunch. For chicken, cook bite-sized pieces in a pan. Season with salt and pepper. Shrimp cooks quickly, too. Sauté them in a hot pan until they turn pink. Each choice enhances flavor and texture. Feel free to swap out vegetables in this dish. Broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers are great substitutes. You can also add spinach or bok choy for extra greens. Just chop them into small pieces. Steam or stir-fry them briefly before mixing with the noodles. This keeps them bright and fresh. The more colors you add, the more fun and healthy your meal becomes! The spice level is totally up to you. If you like it mild, start with less sriracha. You can always add more later. For more heat, increase the amount slowly. You can also mix in chili flakes or hot sauce for different flavors. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance. Adjusting spice lets you make this dish your own! To store leftover spicy peanut noodles, first cool them to room temperature. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep the flavors fresh. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep the noodles crunchy, store the veggies and sauce separately. When you’re ready to eat, take the noodles out of the fridge. Heat a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of oil to help with sticking. Toss the noodles in the pan, stirring often. Heat for about 5 minutes. This brings back the flavors without overcooking the noodles. You can freeze spicy peanut noodles for up to three months. To do this, cool the noodles, sauce, and veggies completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out any air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above, adjusting for any texture changes. Spicy peanut noodles likely come from Asian cuisine, especially in Southeast Asia. Many dishes use peanut sauce, which adds creaminess and flavor. Countries like Thailand and Indonesia have their own versions. These noodles blend simple ingredients into a hearty meal that many love. Yes, you can make spicy peanut noodles ahead of time. Cook the noodles and prepare the sauce as usual. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, mix them together. This helps keep the noodles from getting too soft. You can also add fresh veggies just before serving for a crisp bite. Many side dishes work well with spicy peanut noodles. Here are a few ideas: - Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, they complement the noodles well. - Asian Slaw: Crunchy cabbage and carrots add a nice texture. - Grilled Chicken Skewers: Protein adds heartiness to your meal. - Edamame: A simple and healthy snack to serve alongside. These pairings will enhance your meal and make it even more enjoyable. Spicy peanut noodles offer a tasty and quick meal. We covered key ingredients, tips for perfect sauce, and various protein options. Storage info ensures leftovers remain tasty. You can easily customize the spice level and add your favorite veggies. Enjoy making and sharing this dish with friends or family. Dive into the fun of cooking these flavorful noodles, and keep experimenting with your own twists. The possibilities are endless!

Spicy Peanut Noodles with a Crunchy Twist

A flavorful dish of rice noodles tossed in a creamy spicy peanut sauce, topped with fresh vegetables and garnishes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz rice noodles
  • 1 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons sriracha
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 bell pepper julienned (red or yellow)
  • 1 2 cucumber, julienned
  • 1 green onion sliced
  • 1 4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro for garnish
  • 1 lime wedges for serving

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot of boiling water, cook the rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
  • In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey or maple syrup, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of warm water to reach your desired consistency.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded carrots, julienned bell pepper, and cucumber. Toss to mix evenly.
  • Add the cooked rice noodles to the bowl with the veggies. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles and toss everything together until well coated.
  • Divide the spicy peanut noodles into serving bowls. Top with sliced green onions, chopped peanuts, and fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze before eating.

Notes

For an extra crunchy texture, consider adding roasted chickpeas or baked tofu cubes on top just before serving. A sprinkle of sesame seeds would also elevate the dish visually and texturally!
Keyword noodles, peanut sauce, spicy, vegetarian