Peanut butter is often celebrated for its role in sweet treats, but it is equally incredible in savory dishes. Its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture make it a versatile ingredient that can elevate everything from curries to roasted vegetables. From peanut butter-glazed salmon to spicy noodles, this humble pantry staple shines in a variety of cuisines. It pairs beautifully with bold spices, tangy sauces, and fresh herbs, making it an ideal addition to savory recipes.
Contents
- 1 Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Butter Sauce
- 2 Peanut Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes
- 3 Puffed Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter
- 4 Kare-Kare
- 5 Indonesian-Style Chicken in Peanut Butter Sauce
- 6 Peanut Butter Brussels Sprouts
- 7 Chicken Massaman Curry
- 8 Confit Duck Leg with Peanut Butter
- 9 Asian Peanut Noodle Stir Fry with Vegetables
- 10 Vegan Lunch Bowl with Baked Cauliflower
- 11 Peanut Cream Soup
- 12 More From RetailShout
- 13 15 Sweet and Savory Pumpkin Pairings for Any Occasion
- 14 15 Warm Casseroles That Taste Like Pure Comfort
Grilled Chicken Skewers with Peanut Butter Sauce
Grilled chicken skewers become irresistible with a savory peanut butter dipping sauce. Start by marinating chicken chunks in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of honey. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and grill until perfectly charred and cooked through. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by blending peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a splash of coconut milk for a smooth and flavorful dip. The sauce’s creamy texture and nutty flavor complement the smoky, juicy chicken. Garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for a finishing touch. This dish is perfect for gatherings, light dinners, or even meal prep, offering a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Peanut Butter Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes take on a savory twist when mashed with peanut butter. Cook the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them with peanut butter, coconut milk, and a hint of smoked paprika. The peanut butter adds a rich creaminess and a touch of nuttiness that balances the natural sweetness of the potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley or toasted peanuts for added texture. This dish works well as a side for roasted meats or grilled vegetables. It is an unexpected but delightful addition to any dinner table. The combination of flavors will surprise and satisfy.
Puffed Rice Cakes with Peanut Butter
Puffed rice cakes get a savory upgrade with a generous spread of peanut butter. Start by choosing plain or lightly salted rice cakes as the base for a balanced flavor. Spread a layer of peanut butter on top, then add savory toppings like sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, or a sprinkle of chili flakes. For an extra crunch, garnish with roasted peanuts or sesame seeds. The creamy peanut butter pairs perfectly with the crisp texture of the rice cake, while the toppings add a burst of freshness and spice. This snack is quick to make, highly customizable, and perfect for any time of day. It is a satisfying and healthy option that combines simplicity with bold flavors.
Kare-Kare
Kare-kare is a traditional Filipino stew that highlights the savory richness of peanut butter. This hearty dish is made with a base of peanut butter and ground rice, creating a thick and creamy sauce. Typically, it includes tender cuts of oxtail, beef, or pork, along with vegetables like eggplant, bok choy, and string beans. The peanut butter gives the stew a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with steamed rice. Traditionally served with bagoong (fermented shrimp paste), kare-kare achieves a balance of savory, nutty, and umami flavors.
Indonesian-Style Chicken in Peanut Butter Sauce
Indonesian-style chicken with peanut butter sauce is a rich and flavorful dish inspired by satay. Marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and turmeric for a bold base flavor. Grill or pan-fry the chicken until it is juicy and slightly charred. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by blending peanut butter, coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, and a dash of chili paste for a creamy, spicy, and tangy balance. Drizzle the sauce generously over the cooked chicken and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. Serve with steamed rice or flatbread for a complete and satisfying meal. This dish showcases the perfect harmony of peanut butter’s nutty creaminess with Indonesian spices, creating a meal that is comforting and packed with vibrant flavors.
Peanut Butter Brussels Sprouts
Transform Brussels sprouts into a standout side dish with a peanut butter glaze. Roast the sprouts until crispy, then toss them in a mixture of peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey. The glaze coats the sprouts with a sweet and savory layer that complements their nutty flavor. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra crunch. This dish pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or tofu. It is a delicious way to elevate a simple vegetable. Even Brussels sprout skeptics will love this recipe.
Chicken Massaman Curry
Chicken Massaman Curry is a creamy and aromatic Thai dish that features the rich flavor of peanut butter. Start by sautéing a fragrant blend of onions, garlic, and Massaman curry paste in coconut oil. Add chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned, then pour in coconut milk, chicken broth, and a generous spoonful of peanut butter to create a luscious sauce. Toss in potatoes, carrots, and roasted peanuts, allowing the curry to simmer until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is fully cooked. The peanut butter enhances the curry’s creaminess and adds a nutty depth that complements the sweet and savory spices. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with steamed jasmine rice for a truly satisfying meal. This dish is a perfect combination of rich textures, warm spices, and comforting flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser.
Confit Duck Leg with Peanut Butter
Confit duck leg with peanut butter is an elegant dish that combines rich, tender meat with a savory nutty twist. Start by slow-cooking duck legs in their own fat until they are perfectly tender and flavorful. To create the sauce, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and a splash of rice vinegar for a smooth and umami-packed glaze. Once the duck legs are cooked, crisp them up in a hot skillet or under the broiler for golden, crispy skin. Drizzle the peanut butter sauce over the duck and garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions. Serve alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes to complete the dish. The peanut butter glaze enhances the richness of the duck while adding a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or an indulgent dinner at home.
Asian Peanut Noodle Stir Fry with Vegetables
Asian peanut noodle stir fry is a quick and flavorful dish packed with vibrant vegetables. Start by cooking your favorite noodles, such as rice noodles or spaghetti, and set them aside. Saute a mix of colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots in a hot wok with a little sesame oil. Prepare a savory peanut sauce by combining peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, lime juice, and a touch of honey or sriracha for sweetness and spice. Toss the cooked noodles and vegetables in the sauce, ensuring everything is well-coated. Garnish with chopped peanuts, green onions, and sesame seeds for added texture and flavor. The creamy peanut sauce ties the dish together with its rich, nutty, and slightly tangy profile. This versatile recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or as a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings.
Vegan Lunch Bowl with Baked Cauliflower
This vegan lunch bowl is a wholesome and flavorful meal that features baked cauliflower as the star ingredient. Roast cauliflower florets and sweet potato cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt until they are golden and tender. Assemble the bowl with a base of mixed greens, quinoa, or brown rice, adding the roasted veggies, sliced avocado, and a handful of shredded carrots or red cabbage for crunch. Drizzle with a creamy peanut butter dressing made from peanut butter, lime juice, soy sauce, and a touch of maple syrup. The dressing ties all the components together with its nutty, tangy, and slightly sweet flavor. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, or chopped peanuts for extra texture. This dish is perfect for meal prep or a quick, nourishing lunch that satisfies both flavor and nutrition.
Peanut Cream Soup
Peanut cream soup is a rich, velvety dish that blends savory and nutty flavors. Begin by sauteing onions, garlic, and ginger in a pot with a bit of olive oil until fragrant. Add vegetable broth, a generous scoop of peanut butter, and a touch of coconut milk for creaminess. Toss in diced sweet potatoes or carrots to give the soup body and sweetness, then simmer until the vegetables are tender. Blend the mixture until smooth and silky, adjusting the consistency with additional broth if needed. Garnish with chopped peanuts, fresh cilantro, and a drizzle of coconut milk for a beautiful presentation. This soup is hearty, comforting, and perfect for cooler days when you crave something warm and flavorful. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
This article originally appeared on RetailShout.
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