Creamy Thai-Style Satay Sauce is a luscious, peanut-based condiment that’s packed with bold flavor and smooth texture. Infused with rich coconut milk, soy sauce, fresh lime juice, and a touch of sweetness, it perfectly balances salty, savory, sweet, and tangy notes. Whether used as a dip, drizzle, or dressing, this sauce brings vibrant Southeast Asian flavor to any dish with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This satay sauce is quick to make, incredibly versatile, and customizable to suit your taste. With just a few pantry staples and optional add-ins, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy condiment in under 10 minutes. It’s naturally gluten-free when using tamari, can be made low-carb, and elevates everything from grilled chicken to noodle bowls. Ideal for meal prep, it stores well and is ready when you need a flavor boost.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (or keto sweetener if low carb)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- Optional: 1 tsp chili paste or Sriracha for heat
- Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
directions
- In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the peanut butter and coconut milk. Stir until the mixture is smooth and cohesive.
- Add the soy sauce, brown sugar, and lime juice. If using chili paste or garlic, stir them in now.
- Continue stirring constantly for 3–5 minutes, until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool slightly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as desired.
Servings and timing
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Servings: ~6 servings (about 2 tablespoons each)
- Calories per serving: 130 kcal
Variations
- Low-Carb Version: Replace brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute sunflower seed butter or tahini for peanut butter.
- Soy-Free: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
- Extra Spicy: Add more chili paste or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Herbal Note: Stir in freshly chopped cilantro or Thai basil for a unique twist.
storage/reheating
Store leftover satay sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. If the sauce thickens too much after refrigeration, stir in a small amount of warm water or coconut milk to loosen it to the desired consistency.
FAQs
What is satay sauce made of?
Satay sauce typically includes peanut butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, and a sweetener. It may also contain garlic, chili paste, or spices for added depth.
Can I use crunchy peanut butter?
Yes, but for a smooth, pourable consistency, creamy peanut butter is preferred. Crunchy adds texture if desired.
Is satay sauce the same as peanut sauce?
They are similar, but satay sauce often includes coconut milk and is served warm with grilled meats, while peanut sauce may vary more in usage and ingredients.
Can I make this sauce ahead of time?
Yes, this sauce can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Is this sauce vegan?
Yes, it is vegan as long as your soy sauce and sweetener are plant-based.
What can I serve with satay sauce?
It pairs well with grilled meats (like chicken or beef satay), vegetables, spring rolls, rice bowls, and noodle dishes.
Can I freeze satay sauce?
Yes, it can be frozen in a sealed container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently before use.
How do I adjust the thickness of the sauce?
If the sauce is too thick, thin it with warm water or coconut milk. If too thin, simmer it a little longer to reduce.
Is this sauce gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to ensure the sauce is gluten-free.
Can I use light coconut milk?
You can, but full-fat coconut milk offers a richer and creamier texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy Thai-Style Satay Sauce is a flavorful and easy-to-make condiment that transforms everyday dishes into something special. With its balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, it complements a wide variety of meals and is a great addition to any cook’s repertoire. Whether served with grilled skewers or used as a vibrant dip, this sauce brings authentic Thai-inspired taste right to your table.
Print
Creamy Thai-Style Satay Sauce
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (about 2 tbsp each)
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Thai-Style Satay Sauce is a luscious peanut-based sauce blended with coconut milk, soy sauce, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar or a keto alternative. This bold and versatile condiment is perfect for dipping grilled meats, drizzling over rice bowls, or dressing up Asian-inspired salads. A quick, gluten-free, and flavor-packed addition to your meal prep!
Ingredients
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1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
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1/2 cup full-fat coconut milk
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2 tbsp soy sauce
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1 tbsp brown sugar (or keto sweetener if low carb)
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1 tbsp fresh lime juice
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Optional: 1 tsp chili paste or Sriracha for heat
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Optional: 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions
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In a saucepan over medium-low heat, combine peanut butter and coconut milk. Stir until smooth and fully combined.
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Add soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, and any optional ingredients.
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Continue stirring constantly until the sauce is warmed through and slightly thickened, about 3–5 minutes.
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Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before serving.
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Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
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Use natural peanut butter for a richer, more authentic texture.
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Add more chili paste for extra heat or omit for a milder version.
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This sauce thickens as it cools—add a splash of water or coconut milk to thin as needed.
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Great with grilled chicken, beef skewers, tofu, or noodle bowls.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce / Dip
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Thai, Southeast Asian
