Satay sauce is a delicious and rich dipping sauce that hails from Southeast Asian cuisine. It’s made primarily with peanut butter and coconut milk, which give it a smooth and creamy texture. This Easy Satay Sauce Recipe is simple to make and adds a burst of flavor to your meals. Whether you use it for dipping grilled meats, vegetables, or even drizzling over salads, this sauce is sure to be a hit in your kitchen.
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own satay sauce at home is not only easy but also incredibly satisfying. You can control the ingredients, making it as spicy or mild as you prefer. This homemade version is fresher and typically healthier than store-bought options. Plus, it takes only a few minutes to whip up, making it a perfect addition to any meal or snack.
How to Make Easy Satay Sauce
Making satay sauce is quick and straightforward. Just follow these simple steps!
Ingredients:
- 3 heaped tbsp smooth peanut butter
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1/2 tsp chili flakes (red pepper flakes)
- 1 tbsp fish sauce (sub with vegetarian fish sauce if you want it vegetarian)
- 200 ml (7 oz) coconut milk (from a tin)
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp roasted peanuts (finely chopped)
- Pinch chili flakes
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander (cilantro leaves)
Directions:
- Place all of the satay sauce ingredients, EXCEPT the lime juice, into a small pan.
- Heat over medium heat while stirring with a wooden spoon.
- The sauce will look thin at first, but as it gets close to boiling, it will start to thicken.
- Don’t let the sauce boil; turn down the heat as it approaches boiling point and stir until thickened.
- Once thickened, turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, chili flakes, and fresh coriander before serving.
How to Serve Easy Satay Sauce
You can serve Easy Satay Sauce with grilled chicken, beef, or tofu skewers. It’s also great as a dip for fresh vegetables like cucumber and bell peppers or drizzled over steamed rice. Pair it with noodles or use it in wraps for added flavor.
How to Store Easy Satay Sauce
If you have any leftovers, store the satay sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 5 days. Before using it again, you might want to stir it well and add a little water or coconut milk to thin it out if it has thickened too much.
Tips to Make Easy Satay Sauce
- To make the sauce spicier, add more chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste.
- You can also make this sauce ahead of time and let the flavors meld in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.
Variation
For a different flavor, try adding a tablespoon of red curry paste to the sauce for a spicier and more aromatic version. You can also substitute almond butter or sunflower seed butter if you want a nut-free option.
FAQs
1. Can I make this sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make Easy Satay Sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to stir it well before serving.
2. Is this sauce gluten-free?
You can make this sauce gluten-free by using tamari instead of dark soy sauce.
3. Can I freeze satay sauce?
Yes, you can freeze satay sauce. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful Easy Satay Sauce! It’s a great step toward elevating your meals with a touch of Southeast Asian flavor.
Easy Satay Sauce
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp smooth peanut butter Heaped tbsp
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce Use tamari for gluten-free
- 0.5 tsp chili flakes Red pepper flakes
- 1 tbsp fish sauce Sub with vegetarian fish sauce for vegetarian option
- 200 ml coconut milk From a tin (7 oz)
- 1 tbsp light brown sugar
- 0.5 tsp ground coriander
- 1 Juice lime About 2 tbsp
- 0.5 tsp sesame seeds For garnishing
- 1 tbsp roasted peanuts Finely chopped, for garnishing
- 1 pinch chili flakes For garnishing
- 1 tbsp fresh coriander Cilantro leaves, for garnishing
Instructions
Preparation
- Place all of the satay sauce ingredients, EXCEPT the lime juice, into a small pan.
- Heat over medium heat while stirring with a wooden spoon.
- The sauce will look thin at first, but as it gets close to boiling, it will start to thicken.
- Don’t let the sauce boil; turn down the heat as it approaches boiling point and stir until thickened.
- Once thickened, turn off the heat and stir in the lime juice.
- Transfer the sauce to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, chili flakes, and fresh coriander before serving.
