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Savory Peanut Butter Sauce

This versatile sauce combines natural peanut butter with soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and garlic to create a rich, savory, and slightly spicy condiment. Its smooth, glossy texture makes it perfect for drizzling over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or tossing with noodles for an easy, flavorful meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Calories: 150
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup natural peanut butter preferably slightly gritty
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce light or dark, based on preference
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar brightens the sauce
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup balances saltiness
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes optional, for heat
  • 2-3 tablespoons water to adjust consistency

Equipment

  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Place the small saucepan on the stove over medium heat. Add the natural peanut butter and gently warm it for about a minute until it loosens and becomes slightly runny, releasing a nutty aroma.
  2. Whisk in soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and minced garlic, stirring constantly. Continue whisking until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth, fragrant, and slightly glossy, about 2 minutes.
  3. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add water one teaspoon at a time, whisking after each addition until you reach your desired pourable consistency. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon smoothly.
  4. Sprinkle in chili flakes if you like a bit of heat, then give the sauce a final whisk. Let it simmer gently for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
  5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the sauce rest for a couple of minutes. It will tighten up a bit as it cools but remain silky and shiny.
  6. Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl or pour directly over your prepared dish. It’s perfect warm or at room temperature, ready to add a burst of savory flavor to grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or noodles.

Notes

For a creamier texture, blend the sauce in a blender until smooth. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, reheating gently and stirring before serving.