Spicy Thai Peanut Sauce - Dipping Sauce

Get ready to transform your weeknight meals and snack game with the most incredible spicy Thai peanut sauce you've ever tasted! Forget those bland, store-bought jars – making this vibrant, flavorful sauce from scratch is not only super easy but also incredibly rewarding. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe will quickly become your go-to.
Our homemade peanut sauce from peanut butter is a versatile wonder. It's the perfect spicy sweet sauce for chicken, a fantastic dressing for salads, an irresistible dip for spring rolls and veggies, or a luscious coating for noodles. We're talking about a sauce that brings that authentic Thai food peanut sauce experience right to your kitchen, bursting with a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, tangy, and yes, that perfect kick of heat. Say goodbye to boring meals and hello to a sauce that truly makes everything better!

Ingredients

• 1 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened recommended)
• 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk (or water for a lighter sauce)
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2-3 limes)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-2 teaspoons red curry paste or sriracha (depending on desired spice level)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Pinch of salt (optional, to taste)
• Optional garnish: chopped fresh cilantro, crushed peanuts, red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, coconut milk (or water), lime juice, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup, and sesame oil until smooth. If your peanut butter is very thick, you might need to add an extra tablespoon or two of coconut milk or water to reach a pourable consistency.
2. Add Aromatics & Spice: Stir in the grated fresh ginger, minced garlic, and red curry paste or sriracha. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Taste and Adjust: This is the fun part! Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as needed.
   1. For more spice: Add another 1/2 teaspoon of red curry paste or sriracha.
   2. For more sweetness: Add a touch more honey or maple syrup.
   3. For more tang: Squeeze in a bit more lime juice or rice vinegar.
   4. For saltiness: Add a pinch of salt if using unsalted peanut butter or if you prefer a saltier profile.
4. Serve or Store: Your spicy peanut sauce is now ready! Serve immediately or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use. The flavors will deepen as it sits.