Ready in: 20 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Boiling & Tossing · Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Quick Answer
These Thai Peanut Sesame Noodles are easy to make, offering a delicious balance of flavors perfect for fall gatherings.
As the crisp autumn air settles in here in New York City, the aroma of roasted chestnuts blends with the scent of warm spices wafting through the bustling streets. With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, I find myself cherishing comforting meals that offer both warmth and a burst of flavor. Enter these Thai Peanut Sesame Noodles, a delightful dish that perfectly balances richness and freshness. They are not only quick to whip up, but they also make for an incredible addition to your fall gatherings. Let me take you through my tried-and-true recipe.
A Perfect Comforting Dish for Fall Gatherings
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- A harmonious blend of rich and fresh flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Customizable with your favorite proteins and vegetables for a personal touch.
- Great as a make-ahead meal, ensuring delicious leftovers.
- Perfect for fall gatherings, bringing warmth and comfort to your table.
Ingredients
To create the magic of these Thai Peanut Sesame Noodles, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Noodles
- 8 oz. of thin rice noodles (or your favorite noodle)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter (I love using all-natural peanut butter without any added sugar)
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce (I recommend low-sodium to control saltiness)
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons of honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 clove of garlic, minced (fresh is best!)
- 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger, grated
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (toasted, for added crunch)
- Crushed peanuts (for garnish and extra texture)
How to Make Thai Peanut Sesame Noodles (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a delightful dish that showcases comforting flavors and textures.
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
First, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. I find that salting the water enhances the flavor of the noodles beautifully. Once boiling, add the thin rice noodles and cook according to package instructions until they’re al dente. You’ll know they’re ready when they have a slight chew—typically, this takes about 4-5 minutes. Drain the noodles, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, and set them aside. The refreshing splash of cold water will keep them from clumping together.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Using a whisk, mix until the sauce becomes glossy and smooth, allowing the sweet and savory notes to meld. The nutty aroma of the peanut butter combined with the sharpness of the ginger is simply intoxicating.
Step 3: Combine and Toss
In a large bowl (I love using a wooden salad bowl for presentation), toss the cooked noodles gently with the sauce, ensuring that every strand is beautifully coated. That rich sauce should envelop the noodles like a warm hug! Add the sliced green onions and toss again; their vibrant green color brightens the dish visually and adds a fresh crunch.
Step 4: Serve and Garnish
Transfer your tantalizing noodles to a serving platter. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and crushed peanuts for extra texture and a delightful pop. If you’re feeling fancy, a handful of fresh cilantro can elevate the dish further, adding an aromatic layer that pairs wonderfully with the peanut sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Noodles: Keep an eye on the cooking time; you want them al dente to stay firm and tasty.
- Skipping the Rinse: Rinsing the noodles after boiling is crucial to avoiding clumps. It also cools them down for the later dressing.
- Using Cold Noodle and Sauce: If the sauce is too thick after resting, heat it gently to loosen it up before mixing with the noodles.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For added protein, stir in cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
- Feel free to customize the vegetables by adding bell peppers, cucumber, or snap peas for a burst of color and nourishment.
- These noodles make for excellent leftovers; just remember to store the sauce separately if possible to keep the noodles from getting soggy.
Variations
- Use whole wheat noodles or gluten-free noodles for different dietary needs.
- Swap peanut butter with almond butter or sunflower seed butter for a nut-free option.
- Incorporate roasted vegetables like zucchini or carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
How to Serve
- Transfer noodles to a serving platter and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and crushed peanuts.
- Add a handful of fresh cilantro for an aromatic touch.
- Serve chilled as a refreshing salad or warm as a comforting dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the noodles gently in a skillet with a splash of water or sauce to reintroduce some moisture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may become mushy upon thawing.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through testing this recipe, I discovered how versatile the dish is—it can easily be tailored for various dietary preferences. Plus, it’s become a staple for me during the busy holiday season, providing a quick yet fulfilling meal option amidst the festivities.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 12g protein · 40g carbs · 18g fat
Delicious Thai Peanut Sesame Noodles
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the thin rice noodles according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 4-5 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a mixing bowl, combine peanut butter, sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
- In a large bowl, toss the cooked noodles with the sauce until well coated. Add sliced green onions and toss again.
- Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with toasted sesame seeds, crushed peanuts, and cilantro if desired.
Notes
FAQs
Can I make these Thai Peanut Sesame Noodles vegan?
Yes, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or another vegan sweetener, and choose a vegan-friendly noodle.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the sauce separate to prevent the noodles from getting soggy.
What can I add for extra protein?
You can stir in cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu to enhance the protein content of your dish.
