Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

For those who enjoy Thai cuisine, this Thai Peanut Sauce recipe is an absolute must-try. The sauce is creamy, savory, and has a hint of sweetness and spiciness. It is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes such as satay, salads, or noodles. Best of all, it is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends.

Photos of Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

The key ingredients in Thai Peanut Sauce are Thai red curry paste and creamy peanut butter, which might not be readily available in your pantry. Thai red curry paste is a blend of herbs and spices that gives the sauce its unique flavor. You can find it in the Asian section of most supermarkets. The creamy peanut butter adds richness and creaminess to the sauce. Make sure to choose a brand that is unsweetened and does not contain any added oils.

Ingredients Needed for the Thai Peanut Sauce

Coconut milk: This forms the base of the sauce, adding a creamy texture and subtle sweetness.

Thai red curry paste: Gives the sauce a kick of flavor and heat.

Creamy peanut butter: Adds thickness and a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce.

Soy sauce: Adds an umami, salty flavor.

Sugar: Balances out the savory elements with a touch of sweetness.

White vinegar: Provides a tangy contrast to the creamy and sweet ingredients.

Water: Helps to thin out the sauce to the desired consistency.

Sesame oil: Enhances the overall flavor of the sauce with its nutty aroma.

One reader, Edgar Leo says:

This Thai peanut sauce recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the creamy texture is just divine. It's so versatile and adds a delightful twist to any dish. I can't get enough of it! Highly recommend trying it out.

Edgar Leo

Essential Techniques for Making Thai Peanut Sauce

How to prepare the sauce: Combine coconut milk, curry paste, peanut butter, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, whisking constantly. Simmer for 3 to 5 minutes over low heat, being careful not to let the mixture scorch at the bottom of the pot. Remove from heat, then stir in the sesame oil. Let the sauce cool for at least 5 minutes; it will thicken as it cools.

How to serve: Serve the sauce immediately over satay or other savory dishes. Enjoy!

How To Make Thai Peanut Sauce

Thai flavors are infused in this peanut sauce recipe. It’s loaded with red curry paste, coconut milk, and more for a perfectly spiced sauce.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

13.5ozcoconut milk,full-fat or “light”
¼cupThai red curry paste
1cupcreamy peanut butter,unsweetened, natural
3tbspsoy sauce
⅓cupsugar
2tbspwhite vinegar
½cupwater
¼tspsesame oil

For Optional Add-Ins:

sriracha
hot chile sauce
fresh ginger,grated
garlic,minced

Instructions

Combine the coconut milk, curry paste, peanut butter, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and water in a medium saucepan.
Bring to a very gentle boil over medium heat, whisking constantly.
Let the mixture simmer for 3 to 5 minutes over low heat; being careful not to let the mixture scorch at the bottom of the pot.
Remove from heat, then stir in the sesame oil.
Let the sauce cool for at least 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cools.
Serve immediately over satay or other savory dishes, and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 1 month, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 897.32kcal
Fat: 73.08g
Saturated Fat: 33.25g
Trans Fat: 0.06g
Monounsaturated Fat: 24.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 11.66g
Carbohydrates: 50.95g
Fiber: 5.51g
Sugar: 31.69g
Protein: 24.27g
Cholesterol: 1.96mg
Sodium: 1021.15mg
Calcium: 94.69mg
Potassium: 950.54mg
Iron: 6.95mg
Vitamin A: 17.69µg
Vitamin C: 4.84mg

Key Technique for Perfecting Thai Peanut Sauce

When making your Thai peanut sauce, it's important to whisk the ingredients constantly as they come to a boil. This not only helps to combine the ingredients smoothly, but also prevents the sauce from burning at the bottom of the pan. Additionally, remember that the sauce will thicken as it cools, so don't worry if it seems a bit thin while it's still on the stove. Patience is key to achieving the perfect consistency.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare any components of the recipe in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and save time.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils, reducing time spent searching for items.

Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of certain components or dishes to have ready-made ingredients for future meals, cutting down on prep time later.

Efficient multitasking: Plan your cooking process to multitask effectively, such as chopping vegetables while something is simmering, to maximize efficiency.

Substitute Ingredients For Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

Coconut milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk has a similar creamy texture and a slightly nutty flavor that can work as a substitute for coconut milk in this recipe.
Thai red curry paste - Substitute with mild curry paste: Mild curry paste can be used as a substitute for Thai red curry paste to achieve a similar flavor profile with less heat.
Creamy peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for creamy peanut butter to add a nutty and creamy texture to the sauce.
Soy sauce - Substitute with tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and has a similar salty and savory flavor that works well in Thai peanut sauce.
Sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener in place of sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to the sauce.
White vinegar - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar can be used as a substitute for white vinegar to add a mild acidity and tang to the sauce.
Sesame oil - Substitute with toasted sesame oil: Toasted sesame oil can be used to add a rich, nutty flavor to the sauce, similar to regular sesame oil.
Sriracha - Substitute with chili garlic sauce: Chili garlic sauce can be used as a substitute for sriracha to add heat and flavor to the sauce.
Hot chile sauce - Substitute with sambal oelek: Sambal oelek can be used as a substitute for hot chile sauce to add a spicy kick to the sauce.
Fresh ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh ginger to add a warm and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
Garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic to add a milder garlic flavor to the sauce.

How to Beautifully Present Thai Peanut Sauce

Elevate the plating: When presenting this dish, pay attention to the visual appeal. Use clean, white plates to allow the vibrant colors of the dish to pop. Arrange the food thoughtfully, ensuring each element has its place on the plate.
Garnish with precision: Add a final touch of elegance by garnishing the dish with finely chopped peanuts and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. This adds texture and a burst of flavor, enhancing the overall presentation.
Incorporate symmetry: Create a visually pleasing presentation by arranging the components of the dish in a symmetrical manner. This attention to detail demonstrates precision and care in the plating process.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Avoid overcrowding the plate, and let the vibrant colors and textures of the dish take center stage.
Consider the vessel: Choose a sophisticated serving vessel that complements the dish. A sleek, modern bowl or plate can enhance the overall presentation and elevate the dining experience for the judges.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Thai Peanut Sauce

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, dips, and nut butters.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients and mixing sauces. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic, and is a staple in any kitchen.
Whisk: A whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients together, especially for sauces and dressings. It helps to incorporate air into the mixture and create a smooth texture.
Saucepan: A saucepan is perfect for heating and simmering sauces. It allows for even heat distribution and is essential for making the Thai peanut sauce recipe.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurement is crucial in cooking, and using measuring cups and spoons ensures the right balance of ingredients in the sauce.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is great for stirring and mixing the sauce while it simmers. It won't scratch the surface of the saucepan and is gentle on non-stick coatings.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for scraping every last bit of the sauce from the saucepan and for transferring the sauce to a serving dish.
Sauce boat: A sauce boat or gravy boat is a serving vessel designed for pouring and serving the sauce at the table, adding a touch of elegance to the presentation.

Storing and Freezing Thai Peanut Sauce

Allow the thai peanut sauce to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or jar.
Store the sauce in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
If you want to keep the sauce for longer, you can freeze it:
- Pour the cooled sauce into freezer-safe containers or ice cube trays, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers with the date and amount of sauce.
- Freeze the sauce for up to 3 months.
To thaw the frozen peanut sauce, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Once thawed, give the sauce a good stir to redistribute any separated ingredients.
Reheat the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature.
If the sauce appears too thick after thawing or reheating, you can thin it out by whisking in a little warm water or coconut milk until it reaches your preferred consistency.

How To Reheat Leftover Thai Peanut Sauce

The best way to reheat leftover thai peanut sauce is to use a microwave or a stovetop. If using a microwave, transfer the sauce to a microwave-safe bowl and heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature.
If using a stovetop, pour the sauce into a saucepan and heat it over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. You may need to add a splash of water or coconut milk to thin out the sauce if it has thickened too much during storage.
Avoid reheating the sauce more than once, as this can affect its texture and flavor. If you have a large amount of leftover sauce, consider portioning it out and reheating only what you need for each meal.
When reheating, be sure to stir the sauce well to ensure even heat distribution and to prevent any separation of the ingredients.
If the sauce seems too thick after reheating, you can always add a little more water, coconut milk, or even chicken broth to achieve the desired consistency.
Taste the sauce after reheating and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want to add a touch more soy sauce, sugar, or vinegar to balance out the flavors.
If you'd like to add some extra depth and complexity to the reheated sauce, consider stirring in some freshly grated ginger, minced garlic, or a squeeze of lime juice just before serving.

Interesting Fact About Thai Peanut Sauce

The Thai peanut sauce recipe is a versatile and flavorful condiment that can be used in various dishes. It combines the rich and creamy flavors of coconut milk, peanut butter, and Thai red curry paste, creating a delicious and aromatic sauce. This sauce is a perfect accompaniment for satay, spring rolls, or as a dipping sauce for grilled meats and vegetables. It's a great way to add a touch of Thai-inspired flavor to your meals.

Is Making Thai Peanut Sauce at Home Cost-Effective?

The Thai peanut sauce recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as coconut milk, peanut butter, and soy sauce, are generally affordable and can be used in various other dishes. The versatility of the sauce also adds value, as it can be used with a variety of dishes, from satay to stir-fries. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly option. Overall Verdict: 9.

Is Thai Peanut Sauce Healthy or Unhealthy?

The Thai peanut sauce recipe, while undeniably delicious, raises some concerns from a nutritional standpoint. The main ingredients contributing to its questionable health profile are:

Coconut milk: High in saturated fats, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Peanut butter: Although a good source of protein and healthy fats, it is also high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in large quantities.
Sugar: The recipe calls for a significant amount of added sugar, which can lead to various health issues such as obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay when consumed in excess.

However, the recipe does include some healthier ingredients like soy sauce (a source of umami flavor and some beneficial compounds) and sesame oil (rich in antioxidants and healthy fats).

To make this Thai peanut sauce recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Opt for a reduced-fat coconut milk or replace some of the coconut milk with water or low-sodium vegetable broth to decrease the saturated fat content.
Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter to reduce the amount of added sugars and unhealthy fats.
Reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, using a smaller quantity.
Increase the amount of sesame oil slightly to boost the sauce's nutritional value and flavor profile.
Add more of the optional ingredients like fresh ginger and garlic, which offer various health benefits and enhance the sauce's taste without adding calories.

Editor's Opinion on This Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

This Thai peanut sauce recipe is a delightful blend of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors. The combination of coconut milk, red curry paste, and peanut butter creates a rich and aromatic base, while the soy sauce, sugar, and vinegar add depth and balance. The optional add-ins such as sriracha, hot chile sauce, ginger, and garlic offer versatility for customizing the sauce to personal taste preferences. Overall, this recipe promises a versatile and flavorful sauce that can elevate a wide range of dishes, from satay to stir-fries.

Enhance Your Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Create a colorful and flavorful medley of grilled vegetables to complement the rich and creamy Thai peanut sauce. The smoky char and natural sweetness of the vegetables will perfectly balance the savory and spicy flavors of the sauce.

Mango Salad: Prepare a refreshing and tangy mango salad to serve alongside the Thai peanut sauce. The juicy and sweet mangoes will provide a delightful contrast to the bold and nutty flavors of the sauce, creating a harmonious combination of tastes and textures.

Coconut Rice: Cook fragrant and fluffy coconut rice to accompany the Thai peanut sauce. The subtle sweetness and creamy texture of the coconut rice will enhance the overall dining experience, adding a comforting and satisfying element to the meal.

Similar Recipes to Thai Peanut Sauce

Spicy Beef Stir-Fry: This spicy beef stir-fry is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal. The combination of tender beef, crunchy vegetables, and a flavorful sauce will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

Mango Salsa: Fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor, this mango salsa is the perfect accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken. The sweet and tangy flavors of the mango, combined with the heat of the jalapeno and the freshness of the cilantro, make this salsa a winner.

Coconut Curry Soup: Warm up on a chilly evening with a bowl of comforting coconut curry soup. This fragrant and creamy soup is packed with tender chicken, hearty vegetables, and a rich coconut curry broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and content.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Thai Peanut Sauce

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful caprese skewers are a fresh and delicious appetizer option. Alternate cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil on skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety smooth and decadent chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The rich and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust and a sweet strawberry topping. Each bite is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Why trust this Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe:

This recipe is a trusted favorite among Thai cuisine enthusiasts. The combination of coconut milk, Thai red curry paste, and peanut butter creates a rich and flavorful base. The addition of soy sauce and white vinegar adds depth and balance. The optional add-ins such as sriracha and fresh ginger allow for customization to suit individual preferences. The careful cooking process ensures a smooth and creamy texture, perfect for drizzling over satay or other savory dishes. With its authentic flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is a go-to for Thai peanut sauce enthusiasts.

Want to share your own Thai peanut sauce recipe or discuss tips and variations? Join the conversation in the Recipe Sharing forum and let's talk about this delicious and versatile sauce!

FAQ:

What can I use this Thai peanut sauce for?

This versatile Thai peanut sauce can be used as a dipping sauce for satay, spring rolls, or fresh vegetables. It also works well as a dressing for salads, a marinade for grilled meats, or a sauce for stir-fries and noodle dishes.

Can I adjust the spiciness of the sauce?

Absolutely! You can customize the spiciness of the sauce by adding sriracha, hot chile sauce, or fresh ginger to suit your taste preferences.

How long can I store the sauce?

You can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just make sure to give it a good stir before using it, as it may thicken in the fridge.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors tend to meld and develop even more after a day or two, making it a great make-ahead option for parties or gatherings.

Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians and vegans?

Yes, this Thai peanut sauce is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, as it does not contain any animal products. It's a great option for adding flavor to plant-based dishes.