Peanut Sauce Recipe
Make Peanut Sauce Recipe in just 15m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
Was this page helpful?
Help improve this recipe for others.
Send this recipe to your inbox.
We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.
Ingredients
Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Main Sauce
Garnish / Optional
Method
Main Sauce
- 1
Combine base ingredients
In a medium bowl or small saucepan, add 1 cup creamy peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon rice vinegar.
- 2
Add aromatics and heat-stable flavors
Stir in 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger, 1 minced garlic clove, 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce (or Sriracha), and 1 teaspoon sesame oil until evenly distributed.
- 3
Thin and adjust consistency
Whisk in 3 tablespoons unsweetened coconut milk (or water) followed by up to 4 tablespoons warm water a tablespoon at a time until you reach a smooth, pourable sauce consistency. The final thickness should coat the back of a spoon but still drizzle.
- 4
Warm and meld flavors (optional)
For a silkier sauce and to better dissolve sugar, gently warm the mixture over low heat in a small saucepan for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly — do not boil. Alternatively microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring between, until warm and smooth.
- 5
Taste and balance
Taste and adjust: add more soy sauce for saltiness, lime juice for acidity, brown sugar for sweetness, or chili sauce for heat. If sauce is too thick, thin with additional warm water or coconut milk 1 teaspoon at a time.
Garnish / Optional
- 6
Transfer the peanut sauce to a serving bowl. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons crushed roasted peanuts, 2 tablespoons sliced green onions, and 2 tablespoons cilantro leaves. Serve with lime wedges alongside for extra brightness.