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The Best Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe

This Thai Peanut Sauce is SO EASY! Creamy, tangy, sweet, and spicy, it’s a versatile sauce perfect for noodles, grilled chicken, or as a dip.
Prep Time10 minutes
Total Time10 minutes
Course: Condiment, Sauce
Cuisine: Thai
Keyword: Easy, Gluten-Free Option, Peanut Sauce, Quick, Spicy, Vegan
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup natural, unsweetened peanut butter the base for that rich and creamy texture
  • 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce or tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free option
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar adds a subtle tang that brightens the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar balances the tang and spice with natural sweetness
  • 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce adjust more or less for heat preference
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice a fresh zing that lifts all the flavors
  • 3 cloves garlic pressed or grated for savory depth
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger root adds warmth and subtle spice
  • 2-4 tablespoons warm water to thin out the sauce to desired consistency

Instructions

  • Peel and press or grate your garlic cloves. Grate the ginger root finely to release its aromatic oils.
  • In your mixing bowl, add the natural peanut butter and low sodium soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos). Whisk them together until smooth and creamy.
  • Stir in the brown sugar and rice vinegar. The sugar will balance the tang of the vinegar and the saltiness of the soy sauce.
  • Add chili garlic sauce to taste, starting with 2 teaspoons and increasing if you like it spicier. Then squeeze in fresh lime juice.
  • Add the pressed garlic and grated ginger. Whisk thoroughly so all the flavors meld together beautifully.
  • Add warm water one tablespoon at a time until your sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be creamy and pourable but not too thin.
  • Give your sauce a final taste. Adjust any element as needed—more lime for brightness, more sugar for sweetness, or extra chili garlic sauce for heat.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Whisk or fork
  • Microplane or grater
  • Measuring Spoons and Cups
  • Juicer or reamer (optional)

Notes

  • Use natural, unsweetened peanut butter for the best flavor and texture.
  • Add warm water gradually to avoid over-thinning the sauce.
  • Fresh lime juice brightens the sauce better than bottled juice.
  • Toast garlic and ginger lightly before adding for deeper flavor.
  • Freeze leftover sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 months.