Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's create a vibrant and flavorful Indonesian peanut sauce that's perfect for dipping, drizzling, or as a base for your favorite dishes. This easy recipe is packed with deliciousness, making it a fantastic addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this homemade peanut sauce is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to experience the rich, nutty, and subtly sweet flavors of Indonesia in your own kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup roasted unsalted peanuts
- ½ cup water (or more, as needed)
- ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1-2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger
- ½ - 1 red chili, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon peanut butter (smooth or crunchy) for extra creaminess
Instructions:
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Roast the Peanuts (Optional): If using raw peanuts, roast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned. This step enhances the flavor significantly. Let them cool slightly before proceeding.
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Blend the Sauce: Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend until completely smooth, adding more water a tablespoon at a time if needed to reach your desired consistency. Start with less water and add more as needed to prevent it from being too thin.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more soy sauce for saltiness, lime juice for tang, brown sugar for sweetness, or chili for heat. This is your chance to make it truly your own.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your delicious Indonesian peanut sauce is ready! Serve it immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
- Go sweet and savory: A teaspoon of honey or agave nectar can add another layer of depth and sweetness.
- Add some zest: A tablespoon of finely grated lime zest will give the sauce a brighter, more fragrant flavor profile.
- Make it creamy: Adding a tablespoon of peanut butter adds creaminess and richness.
- Garnish it: Sprinkle some chopped peanuts, sesame seeds, or cilantro on top for extra visual appeal and texture.
Serving Suggestions:
This versatile peanut sauce is perfect for:
- Dipping spring rolls, satay, or vegetables
- Drizzling over noodles, rice, or tofu
- Using as a marinade for chicken or fish
- Adding to stir-fries for an extra punch of flavor
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
- Protein: Approximately 7-10g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This Indonesian peanut sauce recipe is a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights and easy enough for even the most novice home cook. It's a healthy meal option that's packed with flavor and offers numerous ways to customize it to your taste preferences. Enjoy this delightful taste of Indonesia from the comfort of your own kitchen!