Name: Quick Peanut Sauce
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Asian-inspired
Ingredients: 1/2 cup peanut butter; 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey; 1 clove garlic, minced or grated; 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger; 1/4 cup warm water (more as needed for consistency); 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili paste (optional)

Creamy, nutty, and bursting with flavor, this Quick Peanut Sauce is your new secret weapon in the kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a stir-fry, tossing together a noodle bowl, or just need a killer dip for spring rolls, this sauce comes together in minutes and elevates everything it touches. No need to grab a store-bought jar when you can make something this tasty right at home.

Made with simple pantry staples, it’s a balance of savory, sweet, and tangy that can be tweaked to suit your taste. Plus, it’s naturally vegan, gluten-free (if using tamari), and endlessly versatile. If you’re all about bold flavors and easy prep, this is the sauce for you.

What Kind of Peanut Butter Should I Use?

For the creamiest consistency and balanced flavor, smooth unsweetened peanut butter is your best bet. If you’re using natural peanut butter, just make sure to stir it well beforehand to mix the oils. Want a chunkier texture? Feel free to go with crunchy peanut butter—it adds a satisfying bite.

Ingredients for the Quick Peanut Sauce

Peanut Butter – The creamy foundation. Choose smooth for a silky texture or crunchy if you want a bit of texture.

Soy Sauce (or Tamari) – Adds savory depth and saltiness; use tamari to keep it gluten-free.

Rice Vinegar – Brings brightness and balance with a hint of tang.

Maple Syrup or Honey – Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the salt and acid.

Garlic (minced or grated) – Brings a bold, savory punch.

Ginger (grated) – Adds warmth and zing that lifts the flavor profile.

Warm Water – Adjusts the thickness to your liking, perfect for drizzling or dipping.

Optional: Sriracha or Chili Paste – For those who like a little kick.

How To Make the Quick Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a medium bowl, add the peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, garlic, and ginger. Use a whisk or fork to stir everything together into a thick paste.

Step 2: Adjust the Texture

Slowly add warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, whisking as you go. Stop when the sauce reaches your desired consistency—thicker for a dip, thinner for drizzling over salads or noodles.

Step 3: Spice It Up (Optional)

Add a teaspoon or more of sriracha or chili paste if you like heat. Taste and adjust with extra soy sauce, vinegar, or sweetness as needed.

How to Serve and Store This Sauce

Once prepared, this sauce can be used right away or stored in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors deepen with time, making it even more delicious the next day. If it thickens too much in the fridge, just whisk in a bit of warm water before serving.

What to Serve With Quick Peanut Sauce?

Stir-Fried Veggies or Noodles

Perfect as a finishing drizzle or tossed into hot noodles for instant flavor.

Grilled Chicken or Tofu

Adds a creamy, nutty contrast to grilled proteins.

Spring Rolls or Egg Rolls

Serve as a dipping sauce to enhance every bite.

Buddha Bowls

Drizzle over grains, greens, and veggies for a flavor-packed bowl.

Rice Paper Wraps

Balance fresh veggies and herbs with this savory, tangy sauce.

Want More Sauce Ideas with a Twist?

If this Quick Peanut Sauce is up your alley, don’t miss these other flavor boosters from Savor Queen:

Try our Shrimp Butter Spread Recipe for a rich, seafood-inspired dip.
Love creamy heat? This Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce will have you coming back for more.
For something herby and green, the Roasted Cauliflower Green Goddess Salad features a tangy dressing you’ll want to put on everything.
Use up those fresh tomatoes with our Creamy Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup for a cozy and rich pairing.
And if you’re craving something a little fancier, check out our Cheeseburger Soup with all the creamy, cheesy comfort you need.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe added lime juice or sesame oil? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Quick Peanut Sauce

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 cup

Print Recipe

Description

Need a quick way to elevate your meals with bold flavor? This Quick Peanut Sauce is the answer. Creamy, savory, and perfectly balanced with sweetness and zing, it’s an easy recipe made from pantry staples that transforms any dish—from grilled meats to veggie bowls and spring rolls. Whether you’re after a quick lunch or a dinner idea that packs a punch, this easy sauce fits right in. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free with tamari, and a must-have in your recipe collection. Add it to your list of go-to easy recipes and healthy snack or dinner ideas.