Creamy Peanut Crockpot Stir Fry Recipe
Introduction
This Peanut Crockpot Stir Fry is a simple and flavorful dish perfect for busy days. It combines tender vegetables and your choice of protein with a rich, homemade peanut sauce, all cooked effortlessly in a crockpot.
Ingredients
- Assorted vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots) – about 4 cups, chopped
- Protein of choice (chicken, tofu, or beef) – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Peanut sauce:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup water (to thin sauce)
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the peanut sauce by whisking together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and water until smooth.
- Step 2: Place the chopped vegetables and protein into the crockpot. Pour the peanut sauce evenly over the top.
- Step 3: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the protein is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
- Step 4: Stir well before serving to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Use frozen vegetables for convenience, just reduce cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
- For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha to the peanut sauce.
- Serve over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- To keep tofu intact, toss it gently with a bit of cornstarch before adding to the crockpot.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain sauce consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nut butters instead of peanut butter?
Yes, almond or cashew butter can be used as alternatives, though the flavor may be slightly different but still delicious.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. You can assemble all ingredients in the crockpot insert, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Start cooking the next day for fresh, flavorful results.
PrintCreamy Peanut Crockpot Stir Fry Recipe
A flavorful and easy Peanut Crockpot Stir Fry recipe that combines fresh vegetables, a rich peanut sauce, and your choice of protein, all slow-cooked to perfection. This hands-off dish is perfect for busy days and delivers a deliciously creamy and savory meal with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Asian Fusion
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Peanut Sauce
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili sauce (optional)
Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces (alternative: tofu or shrimp)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Wash and chop all vegetables as indicated. Cut the chicken into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mince garlic and grate the ginger for the peanut sauce.
- Mix the peanut sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, water, and sriracha (if using) until smooth and well combined.
- Layer the crockpot: Place the chopped chicken at the bottom of the crockpot. Add the vegetables on top of the chicken to allow for even cooking and to prevent overcooking delicate vegetables.
- Add the sauce: Pour the prepared peanut sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables, ensuring everything is well coated.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 4 to 5 hours, or on high heat for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked, and the vegetables are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Serve: Stir gently to combine all ingredients and sauce before serving. Serve over cooked rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef based on preference.
- Adjust water quantity in the sauce to achieve your preferred consistency.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of sriracha or add red pepper flakes.
- Adding chopped peanuts or green onions as garnish adds texture and freshness to the served dish.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Keywords: Peanut sauce, crockpot meals, slow cooker, healthy stir fry, easy dinner, chicken recipe, vegetables, Asian-inspired
