If you’ve ever enjoyed a satay skewer or dipped a spring roll into a rich, nutty sauce, you’ve already met the magic of peanut sauce. This peanut sauce recipe is a creamy, savory, and slightly sweet condiment that pairs beautifully with everything from noodles to grilled chicken. Originating from Southeast Asian cuisines, especially Thai and Indonesian dishes, peanut sauce is now a global favorite for its versatility and bold flavor. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make at home using pantry staples — no special ingredients required.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious peanut sauce recipe:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened preferred)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or lime juice
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger (or ½ teaspoon ground ginger)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes or Sriracha (optional, for spice)
- ⅓ cup warm water (adjust for desired consistency)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the perfect peanut sauce at home:
- Combine base ingredients: In a medium bowl, add peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey.
- Add aromatics: Stir in grated ginger, minced garlic, and sesame oil.
- Adjust thickness: Slowly whisk in warm water, a little at a time, until smooth and creamy. You can make it thinner for dipping or thicker for drizzling.
- Add spice: If you like heat, mix in chili flakes or Sriracha to taste.
- Taste and adjust: Balance flavors with more vinegar (for tang), honey (for sweetness), or soy sauce (for saltiness).
- Serve immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
Tips & Variations
Make this peanut sauce recipe your own with these easy variations:
- Spicy Peanut Sauce: Add more Sriracha or a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
- Creamy Coconut Twist: Stir in 2 tablespoons of coconut milk for a tropical flavor.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip added salt.
- Nut-Free Version: Substitute peanut butter with almond or sunflower seed butter.
- Ginger-Lime Boost: Add extra lime juice and zest for a brighter, tangier flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut sauce is incredibly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to use it:
- Dipping Sauce: Perfect for spring rolls, satay, or fresh veggies.
- Noodle Sauce: Toss with rice noodles or soba for a quick Thai-style dish.
- Salad Dressing: Thin with water or lime juice for a creamy, tangy dressing.
- Marinade: Use it to marinate chicken, tofu, or shrimp before grilling.
- Rice Bowl Drizzle: Add over steamed rice and vegetables for a flavorful meal.
FAQs
1. Can I make this peanut sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 7 days. Stir in a splash of warm water before serving to loosen it up.
2. Is peanut sauce vegan?
Absolutely. Just replace honey with maple syrup or agave nectar for a 100% vegan option.
3. Can I freeze peanut sauce?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and whisk before using.
4. What if my peanut sauce is too thick?
Simply add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, and whisk until you reach your desired consistency.
Conclusion
This peanut sauce recipe is the ultimate all-purpose condiment that brings a burst of flavor to any dish. With its creamy texture, balanced sweet-salty-tangy taste, and easy prep, it’s no wonder peanut sauce is a global favorite. Whether you’re meal-prepping or hosting dinner, this quick homemade sauce will instantly elevate your meals. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to recipe!
