u003cstrongu003eIs Thai Peanut Dressing healthy?u003c/strongu003e

It can be part of a healthy diet! Peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein. Homemade versions allow you to control sugar and sodium. However, it's calorie-dense, so portion control is key. Using natural, unsweetened peanut butter and minimal added sugar makes it healthier.

u003cstrongu003eCan I make Thai Peanut Dressing ahead of time?u003c/strongu003e

Absolutely! It's a great make-ahead sauce. In fact, the flavors often meld and become even better after a day or two in the fridge.

u003cstrongu003eWhy did my peanut dressing separate?u003c/strongu003e

Separation can happen if the ingredients weren't fully emulsified, or sometimes after chilling. Simply whisk vigorously or give it a quick blitz in the blender to bring it back together. Using warm water when initially mixing helps.

u003cstrongu003eIs Thai peanut sauce the same as satay sauce?u003c/strongu003e

They are very similar and the terms are often used interchangeably, especially in Western contexts. Authentic satay sauce might sometimes be cooked, be thicker, and occasionally include ingredients like tamarind paste or red curry paste. This recipe is an easy, versatile version that works beautifully as both a dressing and a dipping sauce akin to what's served with satay.

u003cstrongu003eCan I use powdered peanut butter?u003c/strongu003e

Yes, you can experiment with powdered peanut butter. You'll need to reconstitute it with water first according to package directions to create a u0022peanut butteru0022 consistency, then proceed with the recipe, likely adjusting liquid amounts.

Thai Peanut Dressing: Easy, Creamy & Oh-So-Versatile!

Description

Whip up this incredibly easy and delicious Thai Peanut Dressing in minutes! Perfectly creamy, with a balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors. Ideal for salads, dips, noodles, and more. Customizable for vegan and gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (natural, unsweetened preferred)
1/4 cup warm water (plus more for thinning)
3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos for gluten-free)
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup/agave for vegan)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1-2 cloves garlic (minced or grated)
1 teaspoon fresh ginger (grated)
1/2 – 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce or sriracha (optional, to taste)

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Instructions

PREPARE AROMATICS (If whisking by hand): If not using a blender, grate or finely mince the fresh ginger and garlic.
COMBINE INGREDIENTS:
Whisking Method: In a medium bowl, add the peanut butter, soy sauce (or tamari/coconut aminos), lime juice, rice vinegar, sweetener (honey or maple syrup), sesame oil, minced/grated ginger, and minced/grated garlic. If using, add your chili garlic sauce or sriracha. Whisk vigorously until well combined. The mixture will be thick.
Blender Method: Add all ingredients (peanut butter, soy sauce/tamari, lime juice, rice vinegar, sweetener, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, optional chili sauce, and about 2-3 tablespoons of the warm water) to a blender or food processor.
THIN TO DESIRED CONSISTENCY:
Whisking Method: Gradually add warm water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking continuously after each addition, until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.
Blender Method: Blend until completely smooth. Check consistency; if too thick, add more warm water, one tablespoon at a time, blending briefly after each addition until perfect.
TASTE AND ADJUST: Sample the dressing. Adjust seasonings as needed for more sweetness, tang, saltiness, or spice.
SERVE & STORE: Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. (See notes for storage details).

Notes

Pro Tips for Success:
Consistency: For a thinner dressing, add more warm water gradually. For a thicker dip, use less water.
Flavor Balance: Always taste and adjust! Peanut butters vary. Add more sweetener for sweetness, lime for tang, soy sauce for umami/saltiness, or chili for heat.
Ingredient Quality: Fresh ginger, garlic, and lime juice make a big difference.
Delicious Variations:
Spicy: Increase chili garlic sauce/sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne.
Extra Creamy: Replace some water with full-fat coconut milk.
Vegan: Ensure you use maple syrup or agave instead of honey.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
Serving Suggestions:
Drizzle on salads, slaws, or noodle bowls.
Use as a dip for spring rolls, summer rolls, fresh vegetables, or chicken/tofu skewers.
Toss with cooked noodles for a quick meal.
Perfect for Buddha bowls or grain bowls.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks.
The dressing will thicken when chilled. Let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes or whisk in a teaspoon or two of warm water or lime juice before serving to reach desired consistency.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Category: dressing
Cuisine: asian, Thai-inspired