Peanut Sauce

Tags / Categories: savory, nutty, spicy, peanut butter, coconut milk, Southeast Asian, Indonesian, Malaysian, dipping sauce, marinade, dressing

Peanut sauce is one of those magical concoctions that instantly elevates everything—from grilled meats to humble veggies. Rich, creamy, and packed with a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy flavors, it’s a staple in many Southeast Asian kitchens. Whether you’re drizzling it over satay or mixing it into a salad, mastering this sauce will seriously impress your taste buds (and dinner guests!).

Ingredients List

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened preferred)
• 1/2 cup coconut milk (full-fat for creaminess)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar or palm sugar
• 1 teaspoon chili paste or sriracha (adjust to taste)
• 1 clove garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/4 cup warm water (more for thinning)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon fish sauce (skip for vegetarian)

How to Make Peanut Sauce: Step by Step

1. Combine the base: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter and coconut milk until smooth and creamy. It might look thick but hang tight—it’ll loosen up.
2. Balance flavors: Add soy sauce, lime juice, and brown sugar. Stir well to melt the sugar and blend the salty, sweet, and tangy notes beautifully.
3. Add heat and aromatics: Toss in the chili paste, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Give it a good stir so everything melds together nicely. Don’t stress if it’s a little chunky; this adds character!
4. Adjust consistency: Slowly whisk in warm water a tablespoon at a time until your sauce reaches your desired pourable texture. Some like it thicker for dipping, others thinner for drizzling.
5. Optional umami boost: If using, stir in the fish sauce last. It intensifies the savory depth without overpowering the peanut flavor.
6. Taste & tweak: Give it a final taste test. Need more zing? Add a splash more lime juice. Want it sweeter? A pinch more sugar. Spicy? Another dash of chili.

Serving Suggestions

This peanut sauce is wildly versatile. Picture it as a dipping sauce for satay or spring rolls, a dressing for noodle salads, or a luscious drizzle over roasted sweet potatoes or grilled chicken. It’s equally at home tossed with soba noodles or spooned onto steamed dumplings. Honestly, keep a jar in your fridge—you’ll find a million reasons to use it.

Origin & History

Peanut sauce, often called satay sauce in Indonesia and Malaysia, is deeply rooted in Southeast Asian street food culture. Legend has it that the introduction of peanuts to the region by Portuguese traders in the 16th century sparked the creation of this creamy, nutty sauce. Over centuries, it evolved into an essential accompaniment for grilled meat skewers, embodying a perfect harmony of local spices, sugar, and citrus. Each country adds its own spin, but the heart of peanut sauce remains the same: a luscious, comforting dip with bold flavors.

Variations & Substitutions

• Nut alternatives: Swap peanut butter for almond or cashew butter for a different twist—though it won’t quite be peanut sauce anymore!
• Dairy-free & vegan: This recipe is naturally vegan if you skip the fish sauce; tamari makes it gluten-free, too.
• Spice levels: Experiment with fresh chopped chilies or smoked paprika for a smoky heat.
• Sweetness: Try honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a richer sweetness.
• Crunch factor: Add chopped roasted peanuts on top when serving for delightful texture.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store your peanut sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Since the ingredients tend to thicken when cold, just give it a good stir or warm gently over low heat before serving. You can freeze it in small portions for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the fridge and whisk to recombine. Making it ahead is perfect for meal prep, and it actually tastes better after the flavors meld overnight.

Nutritional Information (per 1/4 cup serving)

• Calories: ~190
• Fat: 16g (mostly healthy fats from peanuts and coconut milk)
• Protein: 6g
• Carbohydrates: 7g (includes 3g sugar)
• Fiber: 2g

Related Sauces / Try Next

• Satay Sauce Variation – A spicier, more aromatic blend with lemongrass
• Thai Sweet Chili Sauce – Bright and sticky with fresh chiles and garlic
• Ginger Soy Dressing – Light, fresh, and perfect for salads

FAQ

Q: Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?
A: Absolutely! Just be prepared for a chunkier texture which can add nice bite. You might want to whisk it a bit longer for smoothness.

Q: How spicy is this sauce by default?
A: It’s mildly spicy to suit most palates, but you can easily dial it up by adding extra chili paste or fresh peppers.

Q: Is peanut sauce gluten-free?
A: It can be if you use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Always check labels on your soy and chili pastes to be safe.

Now that you have this simple, adaptable peanut sauce in your culinary toolkit, experiment away! It’s a crowd-pleaser that brings warmth and zest to any meal. So next time you want a quick punch of flavor, reach for this sauce and watch your dishes come alive.