Quick Peanut Sauce

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This quick peanut sauce is a creamy, nutty, slightly spicy delight that elevates everything it touches. Whether you’re drizzling it over noodles, tossing it in a salad, or using it as a dip for crunchy vegetables, it’s a total game-changer. Made with pantry staples and ready in just minutes, it brings bold Thai-inspired flavor to your table without the need for takeout.

It strikes the perfect balance between salty, sweet, tangy, and savory. The magic lies in its simplicity: just a handful of ingredients blended into a silky sauce that pairs with almost anything. You’ll want to keep a jar of this in your fridge at all times.

Why You’ll Love This Quick Peanut Sauce

• It’s made in under 5 minutes.
• Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have.
• Naturally dairy-free and vegan.
• Perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.
• Incredibly versatile as a dip, dressing, or marinade.

Can I Use Any Kind of Peanut Butter?

Absolutely. Both creamy and crunchy peanut butter work, though creamy gives the smoothest texture. Natural peanut butter (the kind with just peanuts and salt) is ideal for control over sweetness and saltiness. Avoid overly sweetened or low-fat versions for best flavor.

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Ingredients for the Quick Peanut Sauce

Each ingredient in this sauce plays a role in delivering maximum flavor with minimal fuss.

• Peanut Butter: The rich, creamy base that gives this sauce its signature texture and nutty depth.
• Soy Sauce: Adds salty umami that balances the sweetness.
• Rice Vinegar or Lime Juice: Lends acidity and brightness to cut through the richness.
• Maple Syrup or Honey: Brings in a touch of sweetness to round out the flavors.
• Fresh Garlic or Garlic Powder: Delivers a sharp, aromatic punch.
• Ginger (fresh or ground): Adds warmth and spice.
• Chili Flakes or Sriracha: For a hint (or a hit) of heat.
• Warm Water: Thins the sauce to your desired consistency.

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How To Make the Quick Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Core Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice), and 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or honey).

Step 2: Add the Aromatics

Grate in 1 clove of fresh garlic and 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, or use ½ teaspoon each of garlic powder and ground ginger.

Step 3: Spice It Up

Stir in 1 teaspoon of sriracha or a pinch of red chili flakes, depending on your heat preference.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

Slowly add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking until smooth and pourable. Typically 2–3 tablespoons will do.

Step 5: Taste and Tweak

Taste your sauce. Adjust with more soy sauce for saltiness, more maple syrup for sweetness, or more lime juice for tang.

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How to Store and Serve This Peanut Sauce

This recipe makes about 1 cup of sauce, enough for 4 to 6 servings depending on use. Store it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to a week.

Refrigeration will thicken the sauce, so stir in a splash of warm water to loosen it before using.

It’s excellent with noodle bowls, grilled chicken, tofu, or as a salad dressing. You can also use it as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or fresh veggies.

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What to Serve With Quick Peanut Sauce?

Asian Noodle Bowls

Drizzle it over soba or rice noodles with shredded veggies and protein of choice.

Grilled Chicken Skewers

Brush over grilled or baked chicken for instant Thai-style flavor.

Vegetable Spring Rolls

The perfect dipping companion for fresh, crunchy spring rolls.

Buddha Bowls

Use it to tie together grains, greens, and roasted veggies.

Stir-Fries

Toss it into your favorite stir-fried dishes for a creamy finish.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

A drizzle over roasted wedges turns them into a savory-sweet snack.

Veggie Platters

Set it out as a dip with raw carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers.

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Want More Sauce & Dip Ideas?

If you’re all about dips, dressings, and bold sauces, you’ll love these flavor-packed recipes from Nora Nosh:

• Shut Yo Mouth Sauce – A bold and flavorful kick for everything from wings to tacos
• Spicy Sailor’s Dip – For the heat lovers who want a creamy, spicy dip
• Creamy Irresistible Crack Dip – Addictively smooth and cheesy
• Colourful Rainbow Bean Salad Recipe – Perfect with a scoop of this sauce on the side
• The Ultimate Cowboy Caviar Recipe – Great for scooping with chips or veggies

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you go bold with spice or keep it mellow? Any creative ways you served it?

Explore more of Nora Nosh’s curated sauces and dips and discover your new go-to flavor boosters!

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