Spicy Peanut Udon Noodles Flavorful and Easy Recipe

Name: Spicy Peanut Udon Noodles
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 8 oz udon noodles; 0.5 cup creamy peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1 tablespoon sriracha; 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 inch piece of ginger, grated; 1 cup snap peas, trimmed; 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced; 1 green onion sliced (for garnish); 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish); 0 none fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

October 23, 2025May 4, 2025 by Emma

If you’re craving a meal that’s both tasty and quick, try my Spicy Peanut Udon Noodles. This dish combines chewy udon noodles with a creamy peanut sauce and fresh veggies, making it a delight! In just a few easy steps, you can whip up a flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress. Ready to spice up your dinner plans? Let’s dive into this easy recipe!

Jump to Recipe

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be made in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy peanut butter and spicy sriracha creates a deliciously unique flavor profile.
Nutritious Veggies: Packed with fresh snap peas and red bell pepper, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– Udon Noodles and Sauces

– 8 oz udon noodles

– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

– 2 tablespoons soy sauce

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

– 1 tablespoon sesame oil

– 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)

– Fresh Vegetables and Garnishes

– 1 cup snap peas, trimmed

– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1-inch piece of ginger, grated

– 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)

– 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

– Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)

– Optional Sweeteners

– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup

Gather these items before you start cooking. The udon noodles form the base of the dish. The creamy peanut butter gives a rich, nutty flavor. Soy sauce adds saltiness, while rice vinegar brings brightness. Sesame oil enhances the taste with its unique aroma. Sriracha adds heat, so adjust it to your liking.

For veggies, snap peas and red bell pepper add crunch and color. Garlic and ginger give depth to the sauce. Green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro offer fresh garnishes that make the dish pop. If you like a hint of sweetness, include honey or maple syrup.

This blend of ingredients creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Enjoy making this dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Udon Noodles

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the udon noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. When they are soft, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps them from sticking. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the sauce.

Preparing the Peanut Sauce

In a mixing bowl, measure out the creamy peanut butter and add it. Next, pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the sriracha, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until smooth. If your sauce is too thick, add a little warm water to make it easier to mix. This sauce packs a punch with flavor and spice!

Sautéing the Vegetables

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the snap peas and red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, so don’t overcook them. The bright colors add a fun look to your dish!

Combining Noodles and Sauce

Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles. Gently toss everything together until the noodles and veggies are well coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.

Once done, transfer the spicy peanut udon noodles to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onion, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy this tasty dish!

Tips & Tricks

How to Achieve the Best Texture

To get the best texture in your noodles, cook them just right. Follow the package instructions for the udon noodles. Don’t overcook them! After cooking, rinse the noodles under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps them firm. When you sauté them with the veggies, they will soak up the sauce but stay nice and chewy.

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you want more heat, add extra sriracha to the peanut sauce. Start with one tablespoon and taste. You can always add more later. If it’s too spicy, balance it with honey or maple syrup. This will sweeten the dish and tone down the heat. Remember, you control the spice!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is not rinsing the noodles after cooking. This can make them sticky and mushy. Another mistake is adding the sauce too soon. Wait until you sauté the veggies. Mixing them too early can make the noodles clump together. Lastly, don’t skip the garnishes. They add flavor and make your dish look great!

Pro Tips

Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha to suit your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed.
Veggie Variations: Experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
Make Ahead: The peanut sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using.
Serving Suggestions: These noodles pair well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost.

Variations

Protein Additions (Chicken, Tofu, Shrimp)

You can add protein to make your spicy peanut udon noodles more filling. Chicken is a great choice. Use grilled or sautéed chicken for a tasty boost. Tofu works well too. Choose firm tofu, press it, and cube it before cooking. Shrimp is another option. Sauté shrimp until they turn pink and add them to the dish. Each protein adds its own flavor and texture.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

To keep your dish vegetarian or vegan, use tofu or skip the meat entirely. The peanut sauce is already plant-based. You can also add more vegetables for a hearty meal. Try mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini. These veggies can add crunch and color.

Alternative Vegetables and Flavor Profiles

Feel free to switch up the vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, and bok choy work great in this dish. They add nutrients and flavor. You can also play with spices. Try adding lime juice for a zesty kick or coconut milk for creaminess. Each change adds a new twist to this easy recipe. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite combination!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After you make your spicy peanut udon noodles, you might have some left. To store them, let the noodles cool down first. Then, place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. The noodles can last for about three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, store the sauce separately. This keeps the noodles from getting too soggy.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Place the noodles in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a little oil to help them heat up. Stir gently until they are hot. You can also use the microwave. Put the noodles in a bowl and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat for about one to two minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing Tips

Freezing is a great option if you want to save your spicy peanut udon noodles for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, put the noodles in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal any time!

FAQs

What Can I Substitute for Udon Noodles?

If you cannot find udon noodles, you have options. You can use soba noodles or rice noodles. Both choices offer a nice texture and flavor. Spaghetti works too, but it changes the taste. Choose according to your preference and what you have at home.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the noodles and store them in the fridge. Prepare the sauce and veggies separately. When you’re ready to eat, heat them together. This keeps the noodles fresh and tasty.

Is Spicy Peanut Udon Noodles Gluten-Free?

Udon noodles are not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free noodles instead. Look for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. These options make the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

How to Make it Less Spicy?

To reduce spiciness, use less sriracha in the sauce. You can also add more peanut butter to balance flavors. A splash of lime juice can help too. Make small changes until you find the right heat level for you.

In this post, we covered how to make delicious spicy peanut udon noodles. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and helpful tips. You learned about variations to suit your taste and how to store leftovers.

Cooking can be fun and easy, and this recipe proves it. With practice, you’ll impress friends and family. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking today! Enjoy your meal and make it your ow

$- Udon Noodles and Sauces - 8 oz udon noodles - 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter - 2 tablespoons soy sauce - 1 tablespoon rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon sesame oil - 1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste) - Fresh Vegetables and Garnishes - 1 cup snap peas, trimmed - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1-inch piece of ginger, grated - 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish) - 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish) - Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish) - Optional Sweeteners - 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup Gather these items before you start cooking. The udon noodles form the base of the dish. The creamy peanut butter gives a rich, nutty flavor. Soy sauce adds saltiness, while rice vinegar brings brightness. Sesame oil enhances the taste with its unique aroma. Sriracha adds heat, so adjust it to your liking. For veggies, snap peas and red bell pepper add crunch and color. Garlic and ginger give depth to the sauce. Green onions, sesame seeds, and cilantro offer fresh garnishes that make the dish pop. If you like a hint of sweetness, include honey or maple syrup. This blend of ingredients creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Enjoy making this dish! {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once boiling, add the udon noodles. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. When they are soft, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water. This stops the cooking and keeps them from sticking. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the sauce. In a mixing bowl, measure out the creamy peanut butter and add it. Next, pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Add the sriracha, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Whisk everything together until smooth. If your sauce is too thick, add a little warm water to make it easier to mix. This sauce packs a punch with flavor and spice! Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the snap peas and red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to be tender-crisp, so don’t overcook them. The bright colors add a fun look to your dish! Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the peanut sauce over the noodles. Gently toss everything together until the noodles and veggies are well coated. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat everything through. Once done, transfer the spicy peanut udon noodles to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onion, toasted sesame seeds, and fresh cilantro leaves. Enjoy this tasty dish! To get the best texture in your noodles, cook them just right. Follow the package instructions for the udon noodles. Don't overcook them! After cooking, rinse the noodles under cold water. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps them firm. When you sauté them with the veggies, they will soak up the sauce but stay nice and chewy. If you want more heat, add extra sriracha to the peanut sauce. Start with one tablespoon and taste. You can always add more later. If it’s too spicy, balance it with honey or maple syrup. This will sweeten the dish and tone down the heat. Remember, you control the spice! One common mistake is not rinsing the noodles after cooking. This can make them sticky and mushy. Another mistake is adding the sauce too soon. Wait until you sauté the veggies. Mixing them too early can make the noodles clump together. Lastly, don’t skip the garnishes. They add flavor and make your dish look great! Pro Tips Adjust the Spice Level: Feel free to modify the amount of sriracha to suit your heat preference. Start with less and add more as needed. Veggie Variations: Experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Make Ahead: The peanut sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using. Serving Suggestions: These noodles pair well with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost. {{image_2}} You can add protein to make your spicy peanut udon noodles more filling. Chicken is a great choice. Use grilled or sautéed chicken for a tasty boost. Tofu works well too. Choose firm tofu, press it, and cube it before cooking. Shrimp is another option. Sauté shrimp until they turn pink and add them to the dish. Each protein adds its own flavor and texture. To keep your dish vegetarian or vegan, use tofu or skip the meat entirely. The peanut sauce is already plant-based. You can also add more vegetables for a hearty meal. Try mushrooms, carrots, or zucchini. These veggies can add crunch and color. Feel free to switch up the vegetables. Broccoli, bell peppers, and bok choy work great in this dish. They add nutrients and flavor. You can also play with spices. Try adding lime juice for a zesty kick or coconut milk for creaminess. Each change adds a new twist to this easy recipe. Enjoy experimenting to find your favorite combination! After you make your spicy peanut udon noodles, you might have some left. To store them, let the noodles cool down first. Then, place them in an airtight container. Keep the container in the fridge. The noodles can last for about three days. If you want to keep them fresh longer, store the sauce separately. This keeps the noodles from getting too soggy. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, you can reheat them easily. Place the noodles in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a little oil to help them heat up. Stir gently until they are hot. You can also use the microwave. Put the noodles in a bowl and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat for about one to two minutes, stirring halfway through. Freezing is a great option if you want to save your spicy peanut udon noodles for later. First, let them cool completely. Then, put the noodles in a freezer-safe bag. Try to remove as much air as possible before sealing the bag. You can freeze them for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy your tasty meal any time! If you cannot find udon noodles, you have options. You can use soba noodles or rice noodles. Both choices offer a nice texture and flavor. Spaghetti works too, but it changes the taste. Choose according to your preference and what you have at home. Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook the noodles and store them in the fridge. Prepare the sauce and veggies separately. When you're ready to eat, heat them together. This keeps the noodles fresh and tasty. Udon noodles are not gluten-free. However, you can use gluten-free noodles instead. Look for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta. These options make the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets. To reduce spiciness, use less sriracha in the sauce. You can also add more peanut butter to balance flavors. A splash of lime juice can help too. Make small changes until you find the right heat level for you. In this post, we covered how to make delicious spicy peanut udon noodles. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step cooking methods, and helpful tips. You learned about variations to suit your taste and how to store leftovers. Cooking can be fun and easy, and this recipe proves it. With practice, you’ll impress friends and family. So, grab your ingredients and start cooking today! Enjoy your meal and make it your own!$