This Thai Peanut Sauce is an incredibly versatile and flavorful condiment that comes together in just five minutes. Creamy, savory, and with the perfect balance of sweet and salty, it’s ideal for drizzling, dipping, marinating, or even dressing up a salad or bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 5 minutes
• Requires no cooking
• Incredibly versatile – use it as a dip, sauce, marinade, or dressing
• High in plant-based protein and healthy fats
• Easily adjustable to taste preferences
• Can be made ahead and stored for later

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/3 cup natural peanut butter (microwave for 15 seconds if thick)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger or 1/2 teaspoon freshly minced ginger
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon rice wine vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup hot water (adjust for consistency)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. In a bowl, jar, or blender, whisk or blend all ingredients except hot water until smooth.
2. Slowly add hot water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached (thicker for dip, thinner for dressing).
3. Use immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for later.

Servings and timing

Yield: 3 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Nut-free: Use almond butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini instead of peanut butter.
• Sweeter: Add an extra teaspoon of maple syrup.
• Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha.
• Creamier: Blend in 1-2 tablespoons of coconut milk.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir or shake before use. If it thickens, stir in a splash of hot water to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter?

Smooth peanut butter is recommended for the best texture, but crunchy works if you prefer added texture.

How do I thin the sauce for a salad dressing?

Add more hot water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this sauce vegan?

Yes, it uses plant-based ingredients.

Can I use this as a marinade?

Absolutely! It works well as a marinade for tofu, tempeh, and even vegetables.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or liquid aminos.

Is this sauce spicy?

Only slightly. You can adjust the spice level by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.

What dishes go well with this sauce?

Great with spring rolls, noodles, salads, tofu dishes, and even grilled veggies.

Can I freeze Thai peanut sauce?

It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing may alter its texture.

What can I substitute for rice wine vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or lime juice are good alternatives.

Is this sauce high in protein?

Yes, peanut butter provides a good source of plant-based protein.

Conclusion

Thai Peanut Sauce is one of those magical recipes that instantly elevates any dish. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, it deserves a permanent place in your fridge. Whether you’re dipping, drizzling, or marinating, this sauce will bring bold, satisfying flavor to every bite.

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