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Vietnamese-Inspired Peanut Sauce Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

This easy Vietnamese-inspired peanut sauce recipe is quick to prepare and packed with rich, savory flavors. Made with simple ingredients like peanut butter, hoisin sauce, garlic, and tomato paste, it’s the perfect dipping sauce for salad rolls, spring rolls, or as a flavorful accompaniment to grilled meats and vegetables.

  • Author: Zara
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: About 1.25 cups, serves 10
  • Category: Sauce
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Vietnamese

Ingredients

Peanut Sauce Ingredients

  • 1/2 tablespoon peanut oil or vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons double concentrated tomato paste
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
  • 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and sauté garlic: Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Fry the minced garlic for a few minutes, stirring often, until it begins to turn golden and fragrant.
  2. Add tomato paste: Stir in the double concentrated tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, continuing to stir frequently. The tomato paste should sizzle but be careful not to let the garlic burn.
  3. Add liquids and flavorings: Pour in the water, then add the granulated sugar, hoisin sauce, and creamy peanut butter. Increase the heat to high and stir constantly until the peanut butter is fully incorporated and the sauce becomes smooth.
  4. Simmer the sauce: Allow the sauce to bubble vigorously for 1-2 minutes, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken further as it cools.
  5. Season and cool: Taste the sauce and season with salt as needed. Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. Transfer it to the refrigerator either in the saucepan or a separate container to chill before serving. The sauce can be served warm, room temperature, or chilled.

Notes

  • Use granulated sugar, but you can substitute with brown sugar if preferred for a deeper flavor.
  • This sauce keeps well in the fridge for a few days when stored in an airtight container.
  • Adjust the consistency by adding more water if you prefer a thinner sauce.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of sriracha.