Cheese And Peanut Sauce: A Tasty Combination?

Peanut sauce is a versatile condiment that can be used as a dipping sauce, a dressing for salads, or a flavour enhancer for dishes like noodles, spring rolls, and stir-fries. While it is commonly associated with Thai cuisine, peanut sauce actually originated in Indonesia, where it is known as satay sauce and served with grilled meats.

When it comes to cheese, several varieties complement peanut sauce, adding a savoury element to the sweet and nutty sauce. Here are some cheese suggestions to pair with peanut sauce:

- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness of cheddar provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the sauce, and its melting capability makes it ideal for grilled cheese sandwiches or as a topping for spring rolls or noodles.

- Gouda: The creamy and nutty flavour of gouda complements the sweetness of peanut sauce, creating a harmonious blend of rich and savoury notes.

- Blue Cheese: The bold and tangy profile of blue cheese pairs well with the richness of peanut sauce, resulting in a unique and indulgent flavour combination.

These cheese and peanut sauce pairings offer a delightful fusion of flavours and textures, showcasing the versatility of both ingredients. Whether you're creating a savoury dish or looking for a unique snack, these combinations are worth exploring.

Peanut sauce with noodles

Ingredients and Preparation

The key components of peanut sauce with noodles are, of course, the peanut sauce and the noodles themselves. Here are some tips for selecting and preparing these essential elements:

• Noodles: Choose your favorite variety of noodles, whether it's spaghetti, rice noodles, or ramen. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, ensuring they are al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside while you prepare the peanut sauce.
• Peanut Sauce: For an authentic and robust peanut flavor, opt for natural-style peanut butter as the base of your sauce. This type of peanut butter contains only peanuts and salt, resulting in a more intense peanut taste. You can also add other ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, lime juice, or hot sauce to enhance the flavor and create a savory and slightly spicy sauce. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations to find your perfect blend.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Once you have your noodles and peanut sauce ready, it's time to bring them together and create a delicious dish. Here are some serving suggestions and variations to elevate your peanut sauce with noodles:

• Classic Combination: Simply toss your cooked noodles with the peanut sauce, ensuring each strand is generously coated. You can serve this dish as-is or add some chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh touch.
• Protein Boost: For a heartier meal, consider adding proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu to the dish. The savory peanut sauce pairs exceptionally well with these proteins, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
• Veggie Delight: Enhance the nutritional value and texture of your peanut sauce noodles by incorporating an array of fresh vegetables. Try adding shredded carrots, thinly sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or steamed broccoli. The crispness and freshness of the vegetables complement the creamy peanut sauce beautifully.
• Cheesy Twist: For an indulgent and unique twist, incorporate cheese into your peanut sauce noodles. Cheeses like sharp cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese can be melted into the sauce or sprinkled on top, adding a savory and tangy element to the dish.
• Crunchy Toppings: Add some texture and crunch to your peanut sauce noodles by topping them with chopped roasted peanuts, scallions, or sesame seeds. These toppings provide a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce and noodles.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to your peanut sauce. This will create a spicy and flavorful dish that tantalizes your taste buds.
• Sweet and Savory: For a unique flavor profile, experiment with combining sweet and savory elements. Try adding a drizzle of honey or maple syrup to your peanut sauce, or even some sliced bananas or apples. These unexpected additions create a delightful contrast of flavors.

Tips and Tricks

• When preparing the peanut sauce, start with a smaller amount of liquid and gradually add more to achieve your desired consistency. This will help you avoid making the sauce too thin or runny.
• If you're using natural-style peanut butter, be sure to stir it well before using, as the oil tends to separate and rise to the top. This will ensure a smooth and homogeneous sauce.
• Don't be afraid to get creative with your add-ins! Peanut sauce with noodles is a versatile dish that lends itself to experimentation. Try adding different proteins, vegetables, or cheeses to find your favorite combinations.
• For a more indulgent dish, consider using a thicker and creamier variety of peanut butter, such as the kind that comes in a jar. This will result in a richer and more luscious sauce.
• If you have any leftover peanut sauce, don't discard it! It can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week and used as a dip for vegetables or a spread for sandwiches.

Peanut sauce with spring rolls

Spring rolls are a delightful dish that can be enjoyed as an appetizer, snack, or light meal. They are fun to make and even more enjoyable to eat, especially when paired with a mouthwatering peanut sauce. This combination of flavours and textures creates a culinary experience that is both refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients

For the Spring Rolls:

• Rice paper (spring roll wrappers)
• Vermicelli rice noodles
• Lettuce (butter lettuce is recommended)
• Bell peppers (red and yellow for colour)
• Carrots (thinly sliced)
• Purple cabbage (for crunch and colour)
• Cucumbers (Persian or English, thinly sliced)
• Avocado (for a creamy element)
• Fresh herbs (mint, basil, and cilantro leaves)

For the Peanut Sauce:

• Peanut butter (creamy natural peanut butter is preferred)
• Hoisin sauce
• Rice vinegar (or rice wine vinegar)
• Soy sauce (low sodium or Tamari for gluten-free option)
• Garlic (freshly minced)
• Ginger (freshly grated)
• Sriracha (for a spicy kick)
• Honey or maple syrup (optional, for vegan option)
• Chopped peanuts (for garnish)

Instructions

Making the Peanut Sauce:

In a medium bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients except for the water and chopped peanuts. Whisk the mixture until smooth, gradually adding hot water to achieve a creamy yet dip-able consistency. Garnish with chopped peanuts and set the sauce aside.

Preparing the Veggies:

Cut up all the veggies into thin strips or matchsticks. You can get creative and add other vegetables of your choice, such as jalapeños or green onions. Just remember to thinly slice them to ensure easy rolling.

Cooking the Noodles:

Cook the vermicelli rice noodles according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to prevent stickiness. Set them aside and let them dry.

Assembling the Spring Rolls:

• Set up your work station by laying a damp, lint-free towel on a clean work surface. This is where you will roll your spring rolls.
• Fill a wide, shallow bowl or pie plate with warm water. This is for softening the rice paper.
• Dip one rice paper wrap into the water and let it soften for about 20 seconds. Be careful not to let it get too soggy, as it may rip easily.
• Place the softened rice paper flat on the towel.
• Layer the fillings: start by placing a piece of lettuce on the bottom third of the rice paper. Then, add about 2 tablespoons of rice noodles and equal amounts of the veggies (bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, cucumber, and avocado). Top it off with a few fresh herb leaves.
• Rolling technique: pick up the end of the rice paper closest to the filling and tightly wrap it over the veggies. Fold in the sides, similar to making a burrito. Continue rolling until you have a tight spring roll.
• Place the finished spring roll on a platter, seam side down. Alternatively, you can cut it diagonally with a sharp knife for a fancier presentation.
• Repeat the process with the remaining ingredients.

Tips and Variations:

• Spring rolls are best served immediately after rolling, as the rice paper tends to dry out and harden over time.
• For a fun interactive experience, set up a spring roll station at your next party. Have all the ingredients prepped and ready so your guests can make their own customised spring rolls.
• If you prefer a different sauce, spring rolls also go well with nước chấm, a Vietnamese dipping sauce made with fish sauce, chilli, sugar, and lime juice.
• For a heartier option, you can add tofu (make sure to squeeze out excess liquid) or shrimp (don't forget to remove the tails) to your spring rolls.
• To make it a full meal, serve the spring rolls with a large salad or a crunchy Thai peanut quinoa salad.

Peanut sauce with salads

Salads and peanut sauce are a match made in heaven. The nutty, creamy sauce adds a unique twist to your regular salad, and it's a great way to kick your salad up a notch. Here are some tips and tricks to make the most of this combination.

The Peanut Sauce

The key to a good peanut sauce is in the ingredients and their proportions. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

• Creamy peanut butter provides the nutty base.
• Rice vinegar and fresh lime juice add tanginess and zesty freshness.
• Soy sauce brings savoury depth and a touch of umami.
• Honey or maple syrup sweetens the deal, balancing the acidity.
• Toasted sesame oil, garlic, and ginger infuse aromatic and pungent notes.
• Red pepper flakes add subtle heat.
• Cilantro brings a bright, herbaceous finish.

The Salad

Now, for the fun part—building your salad! The beauty of this combination is its versatility. You can use a variety of crunchy vegetables, proteins, and other ingredients to create a unique salad every time. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Napa cabbage or coleslaw mix for a crisp base.
• Carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers add colour, sweetness, and crunch.
• Edamame provides plant-based protein and a subtle nutty flavour.
• Scallions and cilantro lend freshness and mild onion notes.

Putting It All Together

The best part about this salad is that you can make it your own. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and proportions to suit your taste. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Prepare the peanut dressing by blending all the ingredients, except the cilantro, until smooth. Then, add the cilantro and blend briefly to keep some texture.
• Chop and toss the salad ingredients together in a bowl.
• If serving immediately, drizzle the dressing and toss. Otherwise, serve the dressing on the side to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
• For a more substantial meal, pair the salad with grilled chicken or steak.
• Get creative and add your favourite ingredients to the mix!

So, there you have it! A delicious and versatile Thai-inspired peanut sauce salad that's perfect for a light lunch or a hearty dinner. Enjoy the nutty goodness and don't be afraid to experiment!

Peanut sauce with grilled cheese sandwiches

The combination of peanut sauce with grilled cheese sandwiches may seem unconventional, but it offers a delightful fusion of sweet and savoury flavours that can take your taste buds on an adventurous journey. This unique pairing brings together the salty, creamy goodness of melted cheese and the nutty, sweet allure of peanut sauce, creating a symphony of tastes and textures that is sure to tantalise your palate.

Cheese Recommendations

When crafting this culinary masterpiece, it's essential to select the perfect cheese to complement the richness and sweetness of the peanut sauce. Here are some cheese varieties that pair exceptionally well with peanut sauce:

• Cheddar Cheese: A classic choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, cheddar adds a familiar and comforting taste to the combination, providing a smooth and balanced flavour experience.
• Blue Cheese: Blue cheese provides a bold and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the peanut sauce. Its creamy texture complements the sauce, adding complexity and an intriguing mouthfeel.
• Gouda: The creamy and nutty flavour of gouda cheese harmonises beautifully with the sweetness of the peanut sauce, resulting in a blend of rich and savoury notes.
• Brie or Camembert: These mild, creamy cheeses add a touch of sweetness to the combination, balancing the saltiness of the peanut sauce and creating an indulgent flavour profile.

Recipe Instructions

Now that you've chosen your cheese, it's time to assemble and cook your sandwich. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Bread Selection: Choose a bread that can withstand the weight of the fillings and has a crispy texture. Sourdough, crusty white bread, or brioche are excellent options.
• Spread the Peanut Sauce: On one slice of bread, spread a generous amount of peanut sauce. You can use store-bought or homemade peanut sauce.
• Add the Cheese: Place a slice of your chosen cheese on top of the peanut sauce. If using shredded cheese, sprinkle a generous amount to cover the sauce.
• Create the Sandwich: Take another slice of bread and spread butter on the outer side. Place it butter-side up on top of the cheese to complete the sandwich.
• Grilling Instructions: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
• Serving Suggestions: For a well-rounded meal, serve your grilled cheese peanut sauce sandwich with a bowl of soup, such as tomato basil soup, or a tall glass of milk. Potato chips or cheese puffs on the side can also complement the flavours nicely.

Customisation and Variations

The beauty of this sandwich lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to create your signature version:

• Cheese Variations: While the cheeses mentioned above are excellent choices, you can also use other melting cheeses such as provolone, Swiss, or fontina, or even a blend of multiple cheeses.
• Bread Options: In addition to sourdough and white bread, consider using raisin bread or cinnamon raisin bread for a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the savoury flavours.
• Add-Ins: For an extra indulgent treat, try adding crispy bacon, sliced apples, or bananas to your sandwich. These ingredients will enhance the sweet and savoury contrast and provide a delightful textural contrast.

Final Thoughts

The grilled cheese peanut sauce sandwich is a culinary adventure that challenges traditional flavour boundaries. By embracing this unexpected pairing, you open yourself up to a world of creative possibilities and delightful tastes. Don't be afraid to experiment, and most importantly, enjoy the mouthwatering results!

Peanut sauce with tofu

Peanut Tofu

Ingredients

• 2 blocks of extra-firm tofu
• Cornstarch
• Salt
• Mushrooms
• Oil for frying
• Sesame oil
• Spring onions
• Vegetable broth
• Peanut butter
• Garlic
• Coconut sugar or another sweetener
• Soy sauce or tamari

Method

• Mix all the ingredients for the sauce together in a small bowl and set aside.
• In another bowl, mix cornstarch and water and set aside.
• Dry the tofu by wrapping it in towels and placing a plate on top. Alternatively, use a tofu press. Slice the tofu into cubes.
• Sprinkle salt on the tofu cubes and add cornstarch.
• Heat oil in a pan and fry the tofu cubes until crisp and golden.
• Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
• In the same pan, sauté the onions and mushrooms in a little oil. Add the sauce mixture.
• Add the tofu back to the pan and cook it in the sauce until it boils. Lower the heat.
• Mix the cornstarch slurry again and pour it into the pan while mixing. Cook until the sauce has thickened.
• Serve the tofu with a drizzle of sesame oil and spring onions, if desired.

Tips

• You can serve the tofu with rice or noodles.
• The tofu can be pressed to remove excess water and make it more flavourful.
• The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge.

Frequently asked questions