Peanut butter isn't just for toast and sandwiches anymore. This creamy kitchen staple has broken free from its traditional breakfast role to become a secret weapon in all sorts of surprising dishes.
From savory main courses to unexpected flavor twists, peanut butter adds richness, depth, and a nutty complexity that might just revolutionize your cooking.
This article is for general information and cooking inspiration only. Results will vary with ingredients, methods, and taste preferences. Photos are illustrative and may not exactly reflect your results.
1. Peanut Butter Stir Fry Sauce
Skip the takeaway and whip up a restaurant-quality stir fry sauce with that jar of peanut butter hiding in your cupboard. The natural oils create a silky texture while the nutty flavor pairs brilliantly with soy sauce and ginger.
Just two tablespoons can transform a basic vegetable stir fry into something extraordinary. Add a splash of lime for brightness!
2. Peanut Butter Curry
West African cuisine has long celebrated peanut butter's savory potential in hearty stews. The creamy texture creates a velvety base that carries spices beautifully and mellows the heat of chillies.
Sweet potatoes and spinach particularly shine in this unexpected curry variation. One pot, minimal effort, maximum flavor impact!
3. Peanut Butter Burgers
Sounds mad? Trust me on this culinary adventure! A thin layer of peanut butter melted onto a hot burger creates an umami-rich experience that's surprisingly sophisticated.
The heat transforms the peanut butter into a luxurious sauce that pairs brilliantly with bacon and caramelized onions. Your barbecue guests will be begging for your secret ingredient!
4. Peanut Butter Salad Dressing
Revolutionize your lunch with a zingy peanut dressing that makes even the most basic salad sing. Whisk peanut butter with rice vinegar, a touch of honey, and soy sauce for an instant upgrade to your greens.
Works brilliantly with crunchy vegetables like carrots and peppers. The protein boost makes your salad more satisfying too!
5. Peanut Butter Ramen Noodles
Transform humble packet noodles into a luxurious meal with a spoonful of peanut butter stirred in while hot. The heat melts it into a creamy sauce that clings beautifully to each strand.
Add sriracha, spring onions, and a soft-boiled egg for a proper posh noodle bowl. University students take note – this is gourmet on a budget!
6. Peanut Butter Glazed Chicken
Roast chicken gets a magnificent makeover with a peanut butter glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. The natural sugars create a gorgeous golden crust while keeping the meat underneath tender and juicy.
Mix with soy sauce, honey, and lime juice for a sticky-sweet coating. Far more interesting than your average Sunday roast!
7. Peanut Butter Hummus
Middle Eastern meets American pantry staple in this brilliant fusion dip. Replace some or all of the traditional tahini with peanut butter for a familiar yet fresh twist on classic hummus.
The flavor is remarkably similar but with a distinctive nuttiness that pairs wonderfully with vegetables. Sprinkle with smoked paprika and a drizzle of olive oil for presentation points!
8. Peanut Butter Pizza
Before you dismiss this as madness, consider how beautifully peanut butter's savory side works with certain pizza toppings. Spread a thin layer on your dough before adding toppings like chicken, coriander, and a light sprinkle of cheese.
The heat of the oven creates a nutty base that's reminiscent of Thai flavors. Absolutely smashing with a drizzle of sweet chilli sauce!
9. Peanut Butter Chili
Secret ingredient alert! A spoonful of peanut butter stirred into your chili con carne adds remarkable depth and richness without announcing its presence loudly.
The nutty creaminess balances spicy heat and adds body to the sauce. Your dinner guests will detect something special but won't quite be able to put their finger on what makes your chili so moreish!
10. Peanut Butter Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your veg game with a peanut butter glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Toss root vegetables like carrots, parsnips and sweet potatoes in a mixture of melted peanut butter, olive oil, and a touch of maple syrup.
The result? Gloriously golden edges with a nutty-sweet flavor that makes even Brussels sprouts irresistible!
