Peanut sauce is a luscious, creamy, and nutty delight that enhances the flavor of various dishes, from salads to noodles, and grilled meats to fresh vegetables. With its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavor
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup for vegan)
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha or chili paste (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup coconut milk or water (adjust for desired consistency)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish
Steps
1. Combine Base Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and smooth.
2. Add Aromatics and Sweetener Stir in the sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. These ingredients will add depth and complexity to the sauce, balancing the nutty flavor with sweet and aromatic notes.
3. Adjust Consistency Gradually add the coconut milk or water, stirring continuously until you reach the desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less liquid; for a thinner sauce, add more.
4. Add Heat and Citrus Mix in the Sriracha or chili paste if you want a bit of heat. Finally, add the lime juice and stir well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
5. Garnish and Serve Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. This not only adds a visual appeal but also enhances the flavor with a crunchy texture and fresh aroma.
Tips for Variation
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of Sriracha or add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
- Nutty Twist: Substitute peanut butter with almond butter or cashew butter for a different nutty flavor.
- Herbal Infusion: Add finely chopped fresh herbs like basil or mint for an herbal twist.
- Tropical Flavor: Use pineapple juice instead of lime juice for a sweeter, tropical flavor.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace honey with a low-carb sweetener like stevia or monk fruit.
Macros (per serving, approximately)
- Calories: 120
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make this peanut sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare this peanut sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Stir well before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.
- Is this peanut sauce suitable for vegans?
- Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute honey with maple syrup or another plant-based sweetener.
- Can I freeze peanut sauce?
- Yes, you can freeze peanut sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir well before use.
- What dishes can I use peanut sauce with?
- Peanut sauce is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes such as satay, spring rolls, salads, noodles, grilled meats, and stir-fried vegetables.
Creamy Peanut Sauce: A Versatile Delight for Every Dish
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- ¼ cup soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup for vegan
- 1-2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger grated
- 1-2 teaspoons Sriracha or chili paste optional, for heat
- ½ cup coconut milk or water adjust for desired consistency
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Combine Base Ingredients In a medium mixing bowl, combine the creamy peanut butter, soy sauce, and rice vinegar. Mix well until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and smooth.
- Add Aromatics and Sweetener Stir in the sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, and grated ginger. These ingredients will add depth and complexity to the sauce, balancing the nutty flavor with sweet and aromatic notes.
- Adjust Consistency Gradually add the coconut milk or water, stirring continuously until you reach the desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less liquid; for a thinner sauce, add more.
- Add Heat and Citrus Mix in the Sriracha or chili paste if you want a bit of heat. Finally, add the lime juice and stir well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt as needed.
- Garnish and Serve Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and garnish with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. This not only adds a visual appeal but also enhances the flavor with a crunchy texture and fresh aroma.