Description
This creamy and flavorful peanut sauce is perfect for drizzling over salads, vegetables, or grilled meats.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (creamy or crunchy, based on preference)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 clove garlic (minced fresh garlic)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (for brightness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds smoky depth)
- 2–3 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce)
- to taste chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Place a small saucepan on the stove and add the peanut butter. Warm it gently over low heat for about 20 seconds, just until it loosens and becomes easier to whisk.
- Add the soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, and sesame oil to the warm peanut butter. Whisk everything together until smooth and fragrant—this will take about a minute and should look glossy and evenly combined.
- Gradually pour in warm water, about one tablespoon at a time, whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. Continue until the sauce reaches your desired pourable consistency, usually 2 to 3 tablespoons of water.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened and bubbling gently. Your kitchen will fill with a nutty, savory aroma.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning by adding a little more soy or a dash of rice vinegar if you want more tang. If you like heat, stir in chili flakes now.
- Let the sauce rest for a few minutes off the heat—this allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly. It should be glossy, smooth, and ready to pour over your favorite dishes.
Notes
- This sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- To make it spicier, increase the amount of chili flakes.
- Great for dipping fresh vegetables or as a dressing for noodle salads.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauces
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg