Name: Chili Peanut Noodles
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: ~250 g noodles (La Mian, udon, or knife-cut noodles); 1⁄4 cup hot noodle water (more or less to reach desired consistency); 3 tbsp peanut butter; 1⁄2 tbsp soy sauce; 1⁄2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1⁄2 tsp sugar, to taste; 1⁄2 tsp sesame oil; 1⁄4 tsp salt, to taste; 1-2 tsp chili crisps; 1-2 tsp gochugaru; 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (for garnish); 1 tbsp scallions, chopped (for garnish)

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Chili Peanut Noodles are the ultimate comfort food for noodle lovers. This dish brings together the bold flavors of chili, the richness of peanut butter, and the umami of soy and sesame—all wrapped up in slurp-worthy noodles. Whether you’re looking for a quick solo dinner or a cozy bowl to share, this recipe delivers in both taste and simplicity.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
Bold flavor profile: Combines creamy, spicy, savory, and tangy notes.
Customizable heat: Adjust the chili crisp and gochugaru to your spice tolerance.
Minimal cleanup: Just one pot and a bowl needed.
Great for leftovers: Tastes just as good cold or reheated.
Versatile noodle choices: Works well with La Mian, udon, or knife-cut noodles.
Perfect for busy weeknights: Fast enough for last-minute meals.
Satisfying and hearty: Peanut butter adds richness and makes it filling.
Plant-based option: Naturally vegan when using egg-free noodles.
Flavor-packed with pantry staples: Uses common ingredients you likely already have.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

~250 g noodles (La Mian, udon, or knife-cut noodles work great here)

Chili Peanut Sauce
1⁄4 cup hot noodle water, more or less to reach desired consistency
3 tbsp peanut butter
1⁄2 tbsp soy sauce
1⁄2 tbsp rice vinegar
1⁄2 tsp sugar, to taste
1⁄2 tsp sesame oil
1⁄4 tsp salt, to taste
1 – 2 tsp chili crisps
1 – 2 tsp gochugaru

Garnish
2 tbsp cilantro, chopped
1 tbsp scallions, chopped

Directions

Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until they are softened.
Drain the noodles, reserving about 1⁄4 cup of the hot noodle water. Set the noodles aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, salt, chili crisps, and gochugaru. Stir until smooth.
Gradually add the hot noodle water to the sauce, mixing until you reach a creamy consistency.
Toss the cooked noodles into the sauce and mix thoroughly until all the noodles are well coated.
Adjust the consistency with more noodle water if needed.
Garnish with chopped cilantro and scallions. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 1–2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Add protein: Top with grilled tofu, shredded chicken, or a soft-boiled egg.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free tamari and rice noodles.
Nut-free version: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini.
Sweeter twist: Add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.
Extra spicy: Add a splash of sriracha or a pinch of cayenne.
Add crunch: Top with crushed peanuts or toasted sesame seeds.
Include veggies: Mix in shredded carrots, cucumber, or steamed broccoli.
Serve cold: Chill the noodles for a refreshing noodle salad.
Lemon twist: Swap rice vinegar with fresh lime or lemon juice.
Herb boost: Add Thai basil or mint for a fresh kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave with a splash of water to loosen the sauce or reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring until warmed through. You can also enjoy it cold as a noodle salad.

FAQs

How spicy are these Chili Peanut Noodles?

The spice level is customizable. Use less chili crisp and gochugaru for a milder dish or increase for more heat.

Can I use a different type of noodle?

Yes, ramen, rice noodles, or even spaghetti can work as substitutes.

Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, as long as the noodles are egg-free, the recipe is fully plant-based.

What can I use instead of peanut butter?

You can substitute almond butter, cashew butter, tahini, or sunflower seed butter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and mix it with freshly cooked noodles when ready to eat.

How do I thin out the sauce if it gets too thick?

Add a little hot water (preferably noodle water) a teaspoon at a time until desired consistency is reached.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, it makes an excellent cold noodle dish—great for lunch or hot days.

What does gochugaru taste like?

Gochugaru is Korean chili powder with a slightly sweet, smoky, and moderate heat flavor.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter adds extra texture to the sauce.

Do I need to use both chili crisp and gochugaru?

Using both enhances the depth of flavor, but you can use either one based on what you have.

Conclusion

Chili Peanut Noodles are the perfect answer to those times when you want something flavorful, fast, and deeply satisfying. With minimal ingredients and maximum taste, this dish fits seamlessly into any busy schedule or last-minute dinner plan. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your weekly rotation.

Emma