Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe
Try this easy Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe made with peanut butter, sesame oil, lime juice, and ginger for a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy flavor.
Equipment
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Garlic press or knife
- Small saucepan (optional, if warming)
- Airtight jar or container for storage
Ingredients
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter natural or regular
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 to 2 teaspoons sriracha adjust to taste
- 1/2 cup warm water more as needed
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Optional garnish:
- Crushed peanuts
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Combine the Base
- In a medium bowl, add the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, brown sugar, sesame oil, grated ginger, minced garlic, and sriracha.
Step 2: Whisk Until Smooth
- Use a whisk to combine everything. At first, the mixture will look thick and slightly clumpy. Keep whisking. It will begin to smooth out.
Step 3: Add Warm Water
- Slowly add warm water, a few tablespoons at a time, whisking continuously. This helps loosen the sauce and make it silky. Continue until you reach your desired consistency. For dipping, keep it thicker. For drizzling over noodles, thin it slightly more.
Step 4: Taste and Adjust
- This is my favorite step. Taste the sauce and adjust. Need more salt? Add a splash of soy sauce. Want more tang? Add more lime juice. Prefer sweeter? Add a little extra brown sugar. Like it spicy? Add more sriracha.
Step 5: Optional Gentle Heat
- If you prefer a slightly warmed sauce, transfer it to a small saucepan and heat gently over low heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly. Do not boil.
- Your Thai Peanut Sauce Recipe is ready to use.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice, not bottled.
- Warm water blends better than cold water.
- Natural peanut butter works beautifully, but stir it well first.
- Always taste before serving.