This nutrient-dense dish brings together the earthy flavor of soba noodles, the crunchiness of broccoli stems, and the sweet, vibrant color of red peppers. Bathed in a rich, creamy peanut sauce and topped with a sprinkle of roasted peanuts, this recipe is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat.
The key ingredient – soba noodles, are often found in the Asian food section in most supermarkets. Soba noodles are Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour, providing a nutty flavor that pairs well with vegetables and peanut sauce. Tamari, another specialty ingredient, is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative and also found in the Asian foods section. The rest of the ingredients, including red bell peppers, broccoli, and peanut butter, are readily available in most stores.
Ingredients for Peanut Soba Noodles with Broccoli and Red Pepper
Soba noodles: These noodles have a unique, earthy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
Red bell peppers: Adds a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
Broccoli stems: Provides a nice crunch and is packed with nutrients.
Vegetable oil: Used to sauté the vegetables, enhancing their flavors.
Cilantro leaves: Gives a burst of fresh flavor.
Green onions: Adds a mild, sweet flavor.
Roasted peanuts: Adds a delightful crunch and pairs well with the peanut sauce.
Peanut butter: Forms the base of the sauce, providing a creamy, rich texture.
Rice vinegar: Gives a tangy flavor to the sauce.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
Toasted sesame oil: Gives a deep, nutty flavor to the sauce.
Tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that adds a salty depth to the sauce.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a touch of heat to the dish.
One reader, Deirdre Hecht says:
This peanut soba noodles recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are vibrant and the combination of peanut butter, veggies, and noodles is simply divine. It's a quick and easy dish that's perfect for a busy weeknight. The sauce is the star of the show, and the crunch of the peanuts adds the perfect finishing touch. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Preparing Soba Noodle Dishes
How to cook soba noodles: Boil a large pot of water and add the soba noodles. Cook according to the instructions on the package, then drain and rinse with cold water.
How to sauté broccoli and red peppers: Heat a splash of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and red peppers and sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
How to make the peanut sauce: Whisk together the peanut butter, rice vinegar, minced garlic, toasted sesame oil, tamari, and crushed red pepper flakes. Gradually add hot water to achieve a thin yogurt-like consistency.
How to assemble the noodle bowl: Toss together the cooked noodles, sautéed broccoli, red peppers, cilantro, green onions, and peanut sauce. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
How to garnish with peanuts: Portion the noodle mixture into small bowls and top with a sprinkling of dry roasted peanuts.
How To Make Peanut Soba Noodles with Broccoli and Red Pepper
This amazing noodle bowl has a variety of texture and flavors that would please even the pickiest eaters! An amazing soba dish with host of vegetables.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Noodle bowl:
- 12ozsoba noodles(or spaghetti noodles)
- 2red bell peppers medium, cut into 2-inch strips
- 6broccoli stemstightly bunched, (about 1½ to pounds), cut into florets
- 2tbspvegetable oilfor stir-frying
- 2handfulsfresh cilantro leaveschopped
- 1bunch of green onionssmall, thinly sliced
- handfulroasted peanutsfor topping
For Sauce:
- ⅔cuppeanut buttercreamy variant
- ¼cuprice vinegar
- 2clovesgarlicminced and crushed into a paste
- 1tsptoasted sesame oil
- 2tbsptamarireduced-sodium
- 2pinchescrushed red pepper flakes
- ½cuphot water
Instructions
-
Boil a big pot of water. Add the soba noodles and cook according to the instructions on the package. Drain and rinse with cold water. (Tip: soba noodles seem to be more finicky than regular whole wheat pasta, so really, you need to cook them in a lot of water, be sure not to overcook them, and rinse them immediately.)
-
Sauté your broccoli and red peppers over medium high heat with a splash of vegetable oil for about 5 minutes.
-
Whisk together the sauce, adding the hot water in increments at the end. Look for the consistency of a thin yogurt.
-
Once your noodles are done cooking, rinsed and drained, toss together the noodles, broccoli, red peppers, cilantro, green onions and sauce.
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Portion into small bowls and top with a sprinkling of dry roasted peanuts.
Nutrition
- Calories: 1862.65kcal
- Fat: 138.66g
- Saturated Fat: 27.16g
- Trans Fat: 0.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 70.70g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 33.64g
- Carbohydrates: 107.36g
- Fiber: 15.46g
- Sugar: 30.14g
- Protein: 68.14g
- Sodium: 861.93mg
- Calcium: 208.14mg
- Potassium: 1882.50mg
- Iron: 7.03mg
- Vitamin A: 87.79µg
- Vitamin C: 93.94mg
Essential Technique Tip for Preparing Peanut Soba Noodles
When cooking soba noodles, it's important to remember that they can easily become mushy if overcooked. To prevent this, keep a close eye on them while they're boiling and test them frequently for doneness. As soon as they're tender, drain them immediately and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will ensure your noodles maintain a firm, pleasing texture in your dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Peanut Soba Noodles
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and tools needed for the recipe before you start cooking to save time and minimize interruptions.
Multitask: While the noodles are cooking, you can prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organize your workspace: Keep your kitchen organized and clean as you cook to avoid wasting time searching for utensils or ingredients.
Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Soba Noodles with Broccoli and Red Pepper Recipe
soba noodles - Substitute with rice noodles: Rice noodles can be used as a gluten-free alternative to soba noodles, and they have a similar texture and ability to absorb flavors.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter for those with peanut allergies, and it provides a similar nutty flavor and creamy texture.
rice vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can be used as a substitute for rice vinegar, providing a slightly fruity and tangy flavor to the dish.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil can be used as a substitute for toasted sesame oil, providing a mild, nutty flavor and a high smoke point for cooking.
tamari - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos can be used as a substitute for tamari for a gluten-free alternative, and it provides a similar umami flavor to the dish.
roasted peanuts - Substitute with roasted cashews: Roasted cashews can be used as a substitute for roasted peanuts, providing a similar crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
red bell peppers - Substitute with orange bell peppers: Orange bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
broccoli stems - Substitute with broccolini: Broccolini can be used as a substitute for broccoli stems, providing a similar taste and texture with a more delicate appearance.
Best Way to Present Peanut Soba Noodles with Broccoli and Red Pepper
Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, ensure that the noodles are neatly arranged in the center of the bowl, with the broccoli and red peppers artfully placed around them. This will create a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle the cilantro and green onions delicately over the noodles, ensuring an even distribution. This will add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Crush the roasted peanuts and sprinkle them on top of the noodles just before serving. The added crunch will provide a delightful contrast to the soft noodles and vegetables.
Balance the colors: Aim for a harmonious balance of colors on the plate. The vibrant red peppers, green broccoli, and fresh herbs should create an inviting and visually appealing composition.
Consider the bowl: Select a bowl that complements the colors of the dish and allows the noodles and vegetables to take center stage. A simple, elegant bowl will enhance the overall presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Soba Noodle Dishes
- Big pot: A large, deep cooking vessel used for boiling noodles or blanching vegetables.
- Sauté pan: A wide, flat-bottomed pan with relatively tall sides, perfect for sautéing vegetables.
- Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for whipping and mixing ingredients together, perfect for blending the sauce.
- Colander: A bowl-shaped kitchen utensil with perforated holes used for draining the cooked soba noodles.
- Chopping board: A sturdy surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables and herbs.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose kitchen knife used for chopping and slicing the vegetables and herbs.
- Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing together the noodles, vegetables, and sauce.
- Tongs: A kitchen utensil with two arms and a pivot near the handle, used for picking up and tossing the noodles and vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the ingredients for the sauce.
- Serving bowls: Bowls used for serving the finished peanut soba noodles with broccoli and red pepper.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Soba Noodle Dishes
- To store leftover peanut soba noodles, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to enjoy, reheat the noodles in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth to help loosen the sauce if needed.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the soba noodle dish. Place the cooled noodles in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze the peanut soba noodles for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the container to the refrigerator and allow it to defrost overnight.
- Note: The texture of the soba noodles and vegetables may change slightly after freezing and thawing, becoming softer than when freshly prepared.
- To reheat frozen noodles, place them in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the noodles in a pan on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little water or vegetable broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent sticking.
- If the sauce appears too thick after reheating, add a small amount of hot water, vegetable broth, or coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- Garnish the reheated peanut soba noodles with fresh cilantro, green onions, and a sprinkle of roasted peanuts for added flavor and crunch.
How To Reheat Leftover Soba Noodles
To reheat leftover peanut soba noodles with broccoli and red pepper, start by placing the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the noodles from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the noodles are heated through and the vegetables are warm and tender.
For a more evenly heated dish, you can also reheat the peanut soba noodles in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of water or vegetable broth to the skillet to create steam and prevent the noodles from sticking. Heat the noodles and vegetables over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they are warmed through and the liquid has been absorbed. This method allows you to adjust the consistency of the sauce and ensures that the vegetables maintain their texture.
If you prefer a crispy texture for your broccoli and red pepper, you can also reheat the peanut soba noodles in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the noodles and vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle a small amount of sesame oil or vegetable oil over the top to prevent drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through and the vegetables are lightly crispy around the edges.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can also use a steamer basket. Bring a pot of water to a boil and place the peanut soba noodles and vegetables in a steamer basket above the water. Cover the pot and steam for 3-5 minutes, or until the noodles and vegetables are heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture in the dish and prevents the noodles from becoming overcooked or mushy.
Random Fact About Soba Noodles
Soba noodles are a type of thin Japanese noodles made from buckwheat flour. Despite the name, they are not always made entirely from buckwheat flour and can sometimes contain wheat flour as well. This makes them a versatile option for those with dietary restrictions.
Is Making Soba Noodle Dishes at Home Cost-Effective?
This peanut soba noodles with broccoli and red pepper recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, such as soba noodles, broccoli, and red peppers, are affordable and readily available. The addition of peanut butter and roasted peanuts adds a rich flavor without breaking the bank. With an approximate cost of $15, this recipe can easily feed a family of four. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering its affordability, nutritional value, and delicious taste.
Is This Soba Noodle Dish Healthy or Unhealthy?
The peanut soba noodle bowl with broccoli and red pepper is a relatively healthy dish, packed with nutritious ingredients:
- Soba noodles, made from buckwheat, are a good source of fiber and protein
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as dietary fiber
- Red bell peppers are high in vitamin C and antioxidants
- Peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein
- Tamari, a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, is lower in sodium
- Garlic and red pepper flakes offer potential health benefits and flavor without added calories
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Opt for natural, unsweetened peanut butter to reduce added sugars and oils
- Reduce the amount of oil used in sautéing the vegetables, or use a healthier option like olive oil
- Consider using low-sodium tamari to further reduce sodium intake
- Increase the proportion of vegetables to noodles for a more balanced meal
- Add a lean protein source, such as tofu or chicken, to make the dish more satiating and balanced
To make the recipe even more nutritious, you could:
- Incorporate additional vegetables, such as carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms, to increase the variety of vitamins and minerals
- Use whole grain soba noodles for added fiber and nutrients
- Garnish with additional herbs, like Thai basil or mint, for extra flavor and potential health benefits
- Experiment with different nut butters, such as almond or cashew, for variety and healthy fats
- Add a squeeze of lime juice for brightness and a boost of vitamin C
Editor's Thoughts on This Soba Noodle Recipe
This recipe for peanut soba noodles with broccoli and red pepper is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The nutty soba noodles pair perfectly with the crunchy broccoli and sweet red peppers, while the creamy peanut sauce adds a rich and savory element. The addition of cilantro and green onions provides a fresh and aromatic touch, and the roasted peanuts offer a satisfying crunch. Overall, this dish is a harmonious blend of Asian-inspired ingredients that is both satisfying and delicious.
Enhance Your Peanut Soba Noodles with Broccoli and Red Pepper Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Peanut Soba Noodles with Broccoli and Red Pepper Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of peanut butter, soba noodles, and broccoli, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The use of red bell peppers and cilantro adds a vibrant touch, while the sauce, featuring rice vinegar and toasted sesame oil, promises a rich and savory experience. The inclusion of roasted peanuts provides a satisfying crunch, elevating the dish to a new level of enjoyment. With a well-balanced and flavorful profile, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy any discerning palate.
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