Savory Peanut Butter Sauce
This versatile peanut butter sauce is a creamy, nutty condiment that pairs perfectly with stir-fries, grain bowls, or roasted vegetables. Made by gently warming and whisking together natural peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water, it develops a glossy, smooth texture with a savory umami flavor. Its rich, velvety appearance makes it an inviting addition to many dishes.
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 10 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian-inspired
Servings 4
Calories 95 kcal
Small saucepan
Whisk
Measuring spoons
- ½ cup natural peanut butter preferably runny for smoothness
- 2 tbsp soy sauce regular or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar brightens the sauce
- 1 tbsp water hot water helps loosen the sauce
- to taste chili flakes for heat, optional
Gather your small saucepan, whisk, and measuring spoons. Measure out the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water.
Add the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and water to the saucepan. Place it over low heat, about 60°C (140°F).
Whisk continuously as the mixture warms, allowing the ingredients to meld and become smooth, about 3–5 minutes. You'll notice the sauce thickening slightly and becoming glossy.
If the sauce thickens too much, splash in a little more hot water and whisk until the texture loosens to a pourable, velvety consistency.
Take a moment to taste the sauce. Adjust the flavor by adding more soy for saltiness, rice vinegar for brightness, or chili flakes for heat. Whisk to combine each addition.
Once the sauce is smooth, glossy, and well-seasoned, remove it from the heat. Let it rest for about a minute to settle.
Pour the warm, velvety sauce over your favorite dishes, or serve it as a dip. Its rich, nutty aroma and glossy appearance make it an irresistible addition.