Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what goes into making this dish so delicious. The ingredients list is simple yet powerful.
For the Sauce:
- Peanut Butter: Creamy works best, but chunky adds texture if you prefer.
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium to control saltiness.
- Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed for that tangy punch.
- Honey or Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness to balance the flavors.
- Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced for maximum flavor.
- Sriracha or Chili Flakes: Adjust to your spice tolerance.
- Coconut Milk or Water: To thin out the sauce and add creaminess.
For the Noodles and Veggies:
- Noodles: Rice noodles or linguine work beautifully.
- Veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas—choose your favorites.
- Optional Protein: Tofu, grilled chicken, or shrimp.
- Garnishes: Chopped peanuts, cilantro, and green onions for that final touch.
How to Make Thai Peanut Noodles
Ready to get cooking? Let’s break this recipe into manageable steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Start by cooking your noodles according to the package instructions. If you’re using rice noodles, soak them in warm water until soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, ginger, and sriracha. Whisk until smooth, then add coconut milk or water to reach your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the flavors as needed.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and toss in your veggies. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender-crisp.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, followed by the peanut sauce. Toss everything together until well-coated and heated through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving bowl and top with chopped peanuts, cilantro, and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy every bite!
Customizing Your Thai Peanut Noodles
One of the best things about this dish is how easily you can make it your own. Let’s explore some variations.
Choose Your Noodles
- Rice noodles for a gluten-free option.
- Linguine or spaghetti for a classic twist.
- Zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.
Veggie Options
- Add baby corn, bok choy, or bean sprouts for a more authentic feel.
- Use frozen stir-fry mixes if you’re short on time.
Protein Picks
- Pan-fried tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein-packed meal.
- Crispy tempeh for a plant-based twist.