Chinese Peanut Butter Sauce
A rich, creamy Chinese peanut butter sauce with a hint of heat and sweetness, perfect for stir-fries and drizzled over vegetables or meats for added flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the peanut butter and salad oil in a bowl.
- Add soy sauce, sugar, white vinegar, peanut or sesame oil, and crushed red pepper to the mixture.
- Mix well until smooth.
- Optional: stir in chopped green onion for added flavor.
- Optional: add cashews or almonds for extra crunch.
- Serve over chicken stir-fry or vegetables.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, use smooth peanut butter instead of chunky. You can substitute the salad oil with sesame oil for an enhanced flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Adjust the crushed red pepper to control the heat level. This sauce also works well with Rice And Veggie Egg Rolls for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
This peanut butter sauce is delicious drizzled over chicken stir-fry or steamed vegetables. For added texture, sprinkle with chopped cashews or almonds before serving. Pair it with steamed rice or noodles to create a complete meal. It also complements other dishes like Owens Chinese Stuffed Dumplings for a flavorful dipping experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover peanut butter sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, gently warm it in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring until smooth. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or additional oil to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Peanut Butter Sauce contains roughly 133 calories, with 4g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 744mg per serving (32% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this peanut butter sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. It's a great way to have a quick meal ready to go. Just remember to stir it well before using, as ingredients may separate while stored.
Is this sauce suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this peanut butter sauce is suitable for vegetarians since it contains no meat or animal products. It can be enjoyed with a variety of vegetarian recipes, including stir-fried vegetables and tofu dishes.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?
To adjust the sweetness, simply increase or decrease the amount of sugar to suit your taste. You can also use honey or maple syrup as alternatives for a different flavor profile. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach the desired sweetness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).