This Easy Peanut Sauce is a creamy, dreamy condiment that elevates any dish in just five minutes. Its rich, velvety texture and bold, nutty flavor make it perfect for drizzling over noodles, dipping spring rolls, or marinating proteins.
With a hint of tangy sweetness and a touch of spice, it’s a versatile sauce that’s as addictive as it is effortless.
Whip it up in a flash using pantry staples, and enjoy the satisfying balance of savory, sweet, and zesty notes.
Whether you’re a busy cook or a flavor enthusiast, this sauce is your secret weapon for turning simple meals into something extraordinary. It’s quick, delicious, and guaranteed to impress.
What You’ll Need for Easy Peanut Sauce?
- 1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter (unsweetened works best)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons lime juice or rice vinegar (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tamari (or substitute with soy sauce)
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha (add more for extra heat)
- 1/4 teaspoon maple syrup (or honey as an alternative)
- 1 to 3 tablespoons water (to adjust consistency)
- Optional additions:
- 1 garlic clove, grated (use a microplane zester)
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
How to Make Easy Peanut Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, lime juice (or rice vinegar), tamari, sriracha, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Add water, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking until the sauce reaches a drizzleable consistency. (Note: Peanut butter thickness varies, so adjust water as needed.)
- If desired, stir in optional additions like grated garlic, ginger, toasted sesame oil, or extra sriracha for added flavor.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Peanut Sauce
This versatile peanut sauce is a star on its own! Drizzle it over spring rolls, rice noodles, or grilled tofu for a quick meal. It’s also fantastic as a dip for fresh veggies, satay skewers, or crispy tofu bites. For a heartier option, toss it with soba noodles or use it as a dressing for grain bowls.
Customize Your Sauce: Flavor Variations
Make this recipe your own by tweaking the flavors! Add 1 teaspoon of honey for extra sweetness or swap lime juice for rice vinegar for a milder tang. For a nut-free version, try sunflower seed butter. Feeling adventurous? Stir in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of coconut milk for a creamy twist.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh
Store your peanut sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If it thickens, simply whisk in a splash of water or lime juice to bring it back to the perfect consistency. This sauce also freezes well—portion it into ice cube trays for easy single servings!
Quick Fix: Time-Saving Hacks
Short on time? Use pre-minced garlic and ginger paste to skip the grating step. If you’re out of tamari, soy sauce works as a great substitute. For a smoother sauce, blend everything in a small food processor or blender—it’s ready in seconds!
Common Questions Answered
Wondering if this sauce is gluten-free? Use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. For a spicier kick, add more sriracha or a pinch of cayenne. If your peanut butter is too thick, warm it slightly before whisking—it’ll blend much easier!
Easy Peanut Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup natural creamy peanut butter
- 3 to 4 tablespoons lime juice or rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons tamari
- 1/2 teaspoon sriracha more if desired
- 1/4 teaspoon maple syrup
- 1 to 3 tablespoons water
optional flavor additions
- 1 clove garlic grated on a microplane zester
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, lime juice, tamari, sriracha, and maple syrup.
- Whisk in water, 1 tablespoon at a time, to reach a drizzleable consistency. Peanut butters vary in thickness, so you may need more or less water each time you make this recipe.
- If desired, stir in garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and/or more sriracha.