Simple Thai Peanut Sauce

Ingredients:

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened preferred)

• 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 2 tbsp lime juice

• 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or honey (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp red curry paste (or 1 tsp curry powder in a pinch)

• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated (or ½ tsp ground ginger)

• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional)

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha (adjust for spice)

• 2–3 tbsp water (if needed for thinning)

Instructions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté garlic and ginger in a little oil (or coconut milk) for 1 minute until fragrant.

2. Add peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, red curry paste, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.

3. Cook on low heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. If too thick, add water 1 tbsp at a time.

4. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and add more lime (for tang), sugar (for sweetness), or soy sauce (for saltiness) as needed.

5. Serve: Use warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro if desired.

Uses:

• Dipping sauce for spring rolls, satay, or fresh veggies

• Dressing for noodles (like Pad Thai) or salads

• Drizzle over grilled chicken, tofu, or Buddha bowls

Storage:

Keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week (stir in a splash of water when reheating if needed).

Also Read

• Best Thai Green Curry Paste Recipe
• Thai Shrimp Tom Yum Soup Recipe

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

• Yes, but the sauce won’t be as smooth. For a creamy texture, blend it briefly or stick to smooth peanut butter.

What if I don’t have coconut milk?

• Substitute with water or broth (but the sauce will be thinner and less rich). For creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or Greek yoghurt.

Why is my sauce too thick/thin?

• Too thick? Thin with water, lime juice, or coconut milk.

• Too thin? Simmer longer or add a bit more peanut butter.

Can I freeze it?

• Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

Simple Thai Peanut Sauce

Whip up a delicious Thai peanut sauce in minutes! Our easy recipe is packed with flavour and perfect for enhancing your favourite dishes.

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Course: Sauces & Pastes

Cuisine: Thailand

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• ½ cup creamy peanut butter
• 1 (13.5 oz) can of coconut milk
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1–2 tbsp brown sugar or honey
• 1 tbsp red curry paste
• 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes or sriracha
• 2–3 tbsp water

Method

 

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, sauté garlic and ginger in a little oil (or coconut milk) for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, red curry paste, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook on low heat for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly. If too thick, add water 1 tbsp at a time.
4. Taste and add more lime (for tang), sugar (for sweetness), or soy sauce (for saltiness) as needed.
5. Serve: Use warm or at room temperature. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro if desired.