Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

1/2 tsp salt

2 tbsp vegetable oil

125g (4 oz) medium egg noodles (chow mein noodles)

1 tbsp grated ginger

4 cloves garlic, grated or crushed

1/4 head cabbage, sliced thinly (about 1.5 cups)

1 large carrot, julienned

3 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces

1 tbsp sesame seeds

2 tbsp smooth peanut butter, heaped

3 tbsp hot water

1 tbsp sesame oil

2 tbsp dark soy sauce

2 tbsp hoisin sauce

1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

1 tsp dried chilli flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking and set aside.

Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter, hot water, sesame oil, dark soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and dried chilli flakes to create the peanut sauce. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, add to the wok, and stir-fry until fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove chicken from the wok and place on a separate plate.

Step 4: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the wok. Quickly stir-fry grated ginger and garlic for a few seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Add the julienned carrot and sliced cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry over high heat for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften slightly but remain crisp and slightly browned.

Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the wok along with the drained noodles and green onions. Pour the prepared peanut sauce over everything and toss gently to combine all ingredients well.

Step 7: Sprinkle with sesame seeds and extra sliced green onions. Serve immediately with Chinese chilli oil on the side for extra heat if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier meal, increase the amount of dried chilli flakes or add a drizzle of chilli oil when serving.

Substitute cabbage and carrot with any seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy for variety.

Adjust the creaminess of the sauce by adding more or less peanut butter according to your preference.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef strips depending on your preference. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure the protein is fully cooked.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and use firm tofu or additional vegetables. Use vegetarian soy sauce and hoisin sauce to keep the flavors authentic and delicious.