Spicy Peanut Noodle Bowl

Spicy Peanut Noodle Bowl

Ingredients

For the Peanut Sauce:

  • 1/3 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave
  • 1-2 tablespoons sriracha or chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 2-4 tablespoons warm water (to thin out sauce)

For the Noodle Bowl:

  • 8 oz rice noodles or soba noodles
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 cup red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cucumber, julienned
  • 1/2 cup edamame (optional, cooked)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or Thai basil, chopped
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts (for garnish)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Noodles: Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking, and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Peanut Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, maple syrup, sriracha, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach a smooth, pourable consistency. Adjust spiciness by adding more sriracha if desired.
  3. Assemble the Bowl: In serving bowls, arrange the cooked noodles. Top with shredded carrots, bell pepper, cucumber, and edamame. Drizzle the spicy peanut sauce generously over the noodles and veggies.
  4. Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro or Thai basil, chopped peanuts, and sesame seeds. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Toss everything together to coat the noodles in the sauce and enjoy immediately.

Tips

  • Protein Options: Add tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas for extra protein.
  • Veggie Swaps: Feel free to use any veggies you have on hand—shredded cabbage, zucchini noodles, or snap peas work great too.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store sauce separately for the best texture.

This Spicy Peanut Noodle Bowl is a refreshing, vibrant dish with a kick—perfect for spicy food lovers looking for a quick, satisfying meal!