This peanut sauce is creamy, nutty, and perfect for dipping spring rolls! It’s made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness for a tasty twist.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up in just minutes! I like to make a big batch and save some in the fridge for snacking. You know those pesky leftovers! 😉
Ingredients & Substitutions
Peanut Butter: Smooth peanut butter gives a creamy texture. If you need a nut-free option, try sunflower seed butter or tahini. They won’t have the same flavor as peanuts but will still work well.
Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce adds great umami. For gluten-free diets, use tamari or coconut aminos. My go-to is low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
Rice Vinegar: This is light and slightly sweet. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be used, but they will change the flavor a bit. Try a splash of lime juice for a fresh twist.
Honey or Maple Syrup: These sweeteners balance the sauce’s flavor. If you’re vegan, stick with maple syrup. For a healthier alternative, agave syrup can work as well.
Sriracha or Chili Paste: Use these for heat. If you want less spice, reduce the amount or skip them entirely. Try red pepper flakes for a different type of heat!
How Do You Get the Perfect Consistency for Peanut Sauce?
The consistency of your peanut sauce can make or break your spring rolls. You want it to be creamy but pourable. Start by combining all the base ingredients in a bowl.
- Mix peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sesame oil until smooth.
- Gradually add warm water, whisking well after each addition. This helps to thin out the sauce without lumps.
- Taste and adjust the thickness; you can always add more water if needed, but it’s hard to thicken it back up if it becomes too runny.
- Keep adjusting flavors; if it feels off, add a little more of the ingredient that feels missing!
How to Make Peanut Sauce for Spring Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1/2 cup peanut butter (smooth)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1-2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1-2 teaspoons sriracha or chili paste (optional for spice)
- 2-4 tablespoons warm water (to thin out the sauce)
- Chopped peanuts (for garnish, optional)
- Fresh cilantro or basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious peanut sauce will take you about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s a quick and easy option to add flavor to your spring rolls, and you can enjoy it right away or store it for later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Add the smooth peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), and sesame oil to the bowl. These ingredients will create a flavorful base for your sauce.
2. Add Spice (If You Like):
If you’re in the mood for a little heat, sprinkle in 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chili paste. This step is optional, so feel free to skip it if you prefer a milder sauce.
3. Whisk It Together:
Using a whisk, mix all the ingredients together until everything is fully combined and smooth. This part is important to ensure your sauce has that creamy consistency!
4. Adjust the Consistency:
Now it’s time to thin out the sauce. Gradually add warm water, starting with one tablespoon at a time. Keep whisking until you reach your desired thickness—whether you like it thick or a little runny!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Take a small taste of your sauce. If you think it needs more saltiness, feel free to add a splash more soy sauce. If you want it sweeter, add a touch more honey or maple syrup. Make it just how you like it!
6. Serve It Up:
Transfer the peanut sauce to a small bowl and serve it alongside your fresh spring rolls. For a fun touch, sprinkle some chopped peanuts on top and add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil as a garnish.
7. Store Your Leftovers:
If you have any peanut sauce left, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to a week—just give it a little stir before using it again!
Enjoy your tasty peanut sauce with spring rolls! It’s quick to make and full of flavor.
Can I Use Natural Peanut Butter Instead of Regular Peanut Butter?
Yes, you can use natural peanut butter, but keep in mind that it may be a bit oilier and can affect the consistency of the sauce. Stir it well before measuring, and you might need to add a little more warm water to achieve your desired thickness.
What If I Don’t Have Rice Vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar. The flavor will vary slightly, but it will still complement the other ingredients nicely.
How Should I Store Leftover Peanut Sauce?
Store any leftover peanut sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just thaw it in the fridge overnight before using. Stir well after thawing, as it may separate a bit.
Can I Make This Sauce Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to kick up the heat, try adding more sriracha or chili paste to taste. You can also add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra spicy kick!
