Quick Peanut Noodles

Our family loves the Thai flavors (and the peanut butter!) of this quick noodle dish. It’s been a regular menu item over the years. This recipe from ACoupleCooks.com, uses a method that saves washing another pan and time and that is really appealing for a busy evening. Check the notes for a peanut-free option.

Ingredients

 ½ pound Napa cabbage, thinly shredded (4 to 5 cups)

 1 red, green, or yellow pepper, thinly sliced

 ¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped

 1/4 cup peanut butter

 1/4 cup rice vinegar

 3 tablespoons toasted sesame oil

 3 tablespoons soy sauce

 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey)

 1 teaspoon Sriracha sauce

 12 ounces soba noodles (look for 100% buckwheat noodles or rice noodles for a gluten-free option)

 2 limes

 1/2 cup crushed peanuts

Method:

 Prep the vegetables first. Shred the cabbage. Thinly slice the red pepper. Chop the cilantro and reserve for a garnish.

 Start a pot of water to boil.

In a small saucepan, whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, maple syrup or honey, and Sriracha sauce. Cook the sauce over low heat until it is warm and slightly thickened.

When the water is boiling, cook noodles according to package directions.

Meanwhile, place the red pepper in a colander over sink. When the noodles are cooked, drain them over the red pepper in the colander to slightly cook the peppers. Transfer noodles, peppers, and cabbage to a serving bowl, add the sauce, and toss until combined. To serve, garnish with chopped cilantro, fresh squeezed lime juice (a must!), and a generous helping of crushed peanuts.

Notes

Napa cabbage is also called Chinese cabbage: it’s oblong-shaped and has thick, crisp stems and frilly yellow-green leaves. Do not substitute green or red cabbage in this Napa cabbage recipe! The Napa cabbage has a totally different texture and flavor.

It’s important to thinly slice the cabbage and the peppers in order that they will soften and partially cook when the boiling water is drained over them. If you prefer your vegetables softer, feel free to lightly saute them first.

Peanut-free at your house? Trade out the peanut butter products for cashew butter and chopped cashews.