Peanut satay sauce is a creamy, savory, and slightly sweet dipping sauce that perfectly complements grilled meats, vegetables, or even rice and noodles. Originating from Southeast Asia, this sauce is a staple in Thai and Indonesian cuisines, often served with satay skewers—grilled meat, usually chicken or pork, served on skewers. The combination of peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, lime, and spices creates a rich, flavorful sauce that has the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and tangy. It’s quick to make and versatile, easily elevating any meal with its bold flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth or crunchy)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup coconut milk (or water, for a lighter version)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar (or honey), lime juice, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Adjust Consistency: Slowly add coconut milk (or water) a tablespoon at a time, stirring constantly, until you reach your desired sauce consistency. If you like a thinner sauce, add a bit more liquid. If you prefer it thicker, use less.
- Add Spice: If you like some heat, stir in the red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more soy sauce for saltiness, lime juice for tang, or sugar for sweetness as needed.
- Serve: Serve the peanut satay sauce as a dip for grilled meats, vegetables, or spring rolls. It can also be drizzled over noodles or used as a marinade.
This peanut satay sauce brings bold, rich flavors to your dishes in just minutes. Its creamy texture and balance of savory, sweet, and spicy notes make it the perfect complement to a variety of meals, whether as a dipping sauce or a flavorful topping.