Peanut Sauce

Peanut sauce is a versatile, creamy, and slightly spicy condiment that can instantly elevate any meal. Inspired by Southeast Asian flavors, this peanut sauce combines nutty peanut butter, savory soy sauce, zesty lime, a touch of sweetness, and a subtle kick of spice. It’s quick, no-cook, and ideal for noodles, rice bowls, grilled meats, salads, or even as a dip for fresh veggies. Smooth, rich, and balanced, it’s a pantry-friendly sauce that brings authentic flavor to your everyday meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 5 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights
• Smooth, creamy texture that clings beautifully to noodles or vegetables
• Balanced flavor: nutty, sweet, savory, tangy, and slightly spicy
• Great for meal prep; stores easily in the fridge for up to a week
• Easy to customize for heat or sweetness according to taste

Ingredients

• ½ cup peanut butter – provides rich, nutty base and creamy texture
• ⅓ cup soy sauce (low-sodium) or tamari – adds savory umami flavor
• 3–4 tablespoons fresh lime juice – brightens and balances flavors
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup – adds a touch of sweetness
• 1–2 teaspoons sriracha or hot sauce – adjustable for mild to spicy heat
• 1 small clove garlic, grated – aromatic and slightly pungent
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger – adds warmth and subtle spice

How to Make Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a blender, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, sriracha, garlic, and ginger.

Step 2: Blend Until Smooth

Blend until you reach a creamy, smooth consistency. Taste and adjust by adding more lime juice for tang, brown sugar for sweetness, or sriracha for heat.

Tip: If you prefer a slightly chunkier texture, pulse the blender instead of blending continuously.

Step 3: Serve or Store

Transfer to a jar or bowl and use immediately, or refrigerate for later. The sauce may thicken in the fridge—stir in a splash of water or lime juice to loosen it before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use natural or creamy peanut butter for the best consistency.
• Start with 1 teaspoon of sriracha and adjust gradually to avoid over-spicing.
• For an extra smooth sauce, blend for 1–2 minutes until silky.
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 5–7 days.
• Stir in a little water if the sauce thickens after storage.

Equipment Needed

• Blender (or whisk and bowl for manual mixing)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Jar or container for storage

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Peanut Sauce: Add extra sriracha or a pinch of cayenne for heat.
• Coconut Peanut Sauce: Replace 2 tablespoons of water with coconut milk for creaminess.
• Thai Peanut Sauce: Add 1 tablespoon fish sauce (or soy for vegan) and a pinch of chili flakes.
• Sweet & Tangy: Increase lime juice and sugar slightly for a more balanced sweet-sour flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Toss with noodles, rice bowls, or roasted vegetables
• Use as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, grilled chicken, or skewers
• Drizzle over salads for a nutty, tangy dressing
• Spread as a sandwich or wrap sauce for extra flavor

FAQs

Can I make this peanut sauce ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I make it without a blender?
Yes, whisk all ingredients by hand in a small bowl, though it may be less smooth.

How do I thin the sauce if it’s too thick?
Stir in a tablespoon of water, lime juice, or coconut milk until desired consistency.

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but the sauce will have a textured bite rather than silky smoothness.

Is this sauce vegan?
Yes, as long as you use soy sauce instead of fish sauce.

Final Thoughts

This quick and easy peanut sauce packs a punch of flavor with minimal effort. Creamy, nutty, slightly sweet, and tangy, it’s perfect for noodles, bowls, dips, and more. With just a few pantry ingredients, you can transform everyday meals into vibrant, Southeast Asian-inspired dishes. Make a batch, keep it in your fridge, and elevate your meals anytime with this versatile peanut sauce.

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