If you’ve ever craved a sauce that’s creamy, nutty, tangy, and just the right amount of spicy, this Thai Peanut Sauce is about to become your new favorite. It’s incredibly easy to whip up with pantry staples, requires zero cooking, and can instantly elevate just about anything — from salads and noodles to grilled meats and veggie bowls.
What makes this sauce truly special is its perfect balance of flavors. A little sweet, a little heat, and that irresistible umami from soy sauce and garlic — it’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to keep in your fridge at all times.
Why You’ll Love This Thai Peanut Sauce
- Quick & easy: No cooking required — just whisk and enjoy.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice, sweetness, or consistency to your taste.
- Made with simple ingredients: Everything can be found at your local grocery store.
- Super versatile: Use it as a dip, dressing, marinade, or noodle sauce.
Ingredients
This recipe makes about 1 cup of peanut sauce.
- ½ cup natural unsweetened peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons chili garlic sauce (adjust for more or less heat)
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2–4 tablespoons warm water (to thin the sauce to your liking)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, chili garlic sauce, lime juice, garlic, and ginger.
- Whisk the ingredients together until smooth and creamy.
- Add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking well after each addition until you reach your desired consistency.
- For a thick dipping sauce, use less water.
- For a pourable dressing or noodle sauce, use more water.
- Taste and adjust the flavors if needed — more lime for tang, sugar for sweetness, or chili garlic sauce for heat.
Tips & Variations
- Use unsweetened peanut butter to control the sweetness. If using a sweetened version, reduce the brown sugar.
- Want it extra creamy? Blend it in a food processor or use an immersion blender.
- If it thickens in the fridge, just stir in a splash of warm water or lime juice to loosen it up.
- Add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for deeper flavor.
- For a richer, silkier version, stir in a tablespoon of coconut milk.
How to Use Thai Peanut Sauce
This sauce is incredibly adaptable. Here are a few favorite ways to enjoy it:
- As a dip: Perfect for fresh spring rolls, grilled chicken skewers, or raw veggies.
- On noodles: Toss it with rice noodles, shredded carrots, cucumbers, and herbs for a quick peanut noodle bowl.
- Salad dressing: Thin it out and drizzle over cabbage slaw, grilled chicken salads, or quinoa bowls.
- Marinade or glaze: Brush onto grilled meats, tofu, or shrimp for a Thai-inspired twist.
- In wraps or sandwiches: Add it to lettuce wraps, rice paper rolls, or even sandwiches for a creamy, spicy boost.
Storage Tips
Store this peanut sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. It may thicken slightly as it chills — simply stir in a bit of warm water or lime juice to bring it back to your preferred consistency.
Nutritional Information (per ¼ cup serving — approximate)
- Calories: 226
- Fat: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Protein: 9 g
Final Thoughts
Once you try this homemade Thai Peanut Sauce, there’s no going back to the store-bought version. It’s quick, flavorful, and endlessly useful in the kitchen. Whether you’re dressing up a salad, adding flavor to noodles, or looking for the perfect dip, this sauce is a must-have in your weekly rotation.
Want to make it part of a full meal? Pair it with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or rice bowls for a delicious Thai-inspired dish that’s both easy and satisfying.