Satay Peanut Sauce

Satay Peanut Sauce Recipe - Vegetarian Indonesian Cuisine

Region / culture: Indonesia | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Satay peanut sauce is a popular and flavorful condiment that is commonly served with grilled meats or vegetables. This rich and creamy sauce is made with a combination of peanuts, spices, and other ingredients that come together to create a delicious and savory flavor profile.

History

Satay peanut sauce originated in Indonesia, where it is a staple in many traditional dishes. The sauce is typically served with satay, which is a popular street food consisting of skewered and grilled meat. Over time, the recipe has evolved and been adapted in various ways, but the basic components of peanuts, spices, and seasonings remain consistent.

Ingredients

1 stalk of lemongrass
1 small shallot, minced
2 cloves of garlic, minced
0.5 tsp of ground cumin
3 tbsp of peanut oil
1 cup of roasted peanuts, chopped
0.25 cup of packed brown sugar
3 tbsp of chili-garlic sauce
2 tbsp of soy sauce

How to prepare

Slice the bottom 6 inches of lemongrass and discard the remainder. Place it in a food processor or blender along with shallot, garlic, cumin, and 0.25 cup of water. Process the mixture until it becomes smooth.
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat until hot. Add oil and swirl it around to coat the sides. Add the spice mixture and cook, stirring often, until it becomes fragrant, which usually takes about 6 to 8 minutes.
Add 1 cup of water, peanuts, brown sugar, chili sauce, and soy sauce. Stir the ingredients until they are well blended. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the sauce slightly thickens, which usually takes about 5 minutes.

Variations

Add a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy twist.
Stir in a spoonful of coconut milk for a creamier texture.
Garnish with chopped cilantro or crushed peanuts for added flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use roasted peanuts for the best flavor in the sauce.

- Adjust the amount of chili sauce to suit your desired level of spiciness.

- Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the satay peanut sauce with grilled chicken skewers, tofu, or vegetables. It can also be used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls or drizzled over salads.

Cooking Techniques

Use a food processor or blender to easily blend the ingredients together.

- Simmer the sauce over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use almond butter or cashew butter as a substitute for peanut butter.

- Substitute honey or maple syrup for brown sugar.

Make Ahead Tips

The satay peanut sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply reheat it before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the satay peanut sauce in a small bowl or ramekin, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped peanuts or a drizzle of chili oil.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair the satay peanut sauce with grilled meats such as chicken, beef, or pork. It also pairs well with tofu or grilled vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover satay peanut sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat it gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 230 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 15g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 18g per serving

Saturated Fat: 3g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 6g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 2mg per serving

Calcium: 30mg per serving

Alergens

Contains peanuts and soy

Summary

This satay peanut sauce is a rich and flavorful condiment that is high in fats and protein. It is a delicious addition to grilled meats or vegetables.

Summary

Satay peanut sauce is a versatile and flavorful condiment that adds a delicious touch to grilled meats, vegetables, and more. With a combination of peanuts, spices, and seasonings, this sauce is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Satay Peanut Sauce. It was during my travels through Indonesia many years ago. I had always been fascinated by the diverse cuisines of different cultures, and I made it a point to learn as much as I could about the local dishes wherever I went.

I was staying in a small village in Java, where I met a kind old woman who invited me into her home for dinner. She cooked up a feast for me, and one of the dishes that stood out to me was the Satay Peanut Sauce. It was rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor - a perfect accompaniment to the grilled meat skewers that she served alongside it.

I asked her for the recipe, and she smiled warmly and agreed to teach me how to make it. As she showed me the ingredients and walked me through the steps, I could see the passion and love she put into her cooking. It wasn't just about following a recipe for her - it was about preserving tradition, sharing stories, and creating memories.

After that night, I made it a point to perfect the Satay Peanut Sauce recipe. I experimented with different ratios of peanuts, coconut milk, soy sauce, and spices until I found the perfect balance of flavors. I even added my own twist by incorporating a secret ingredient - a touch of tamarind paste for a hint of tanginess.

Over the years, I have made this Satay Peanut Sauce for countless family gatherings, dinner parties, and potlucks. Each time, it never fails to impress and delight my guests. They always ask me for the recipe, but I tell them that it's not just about the ingredients - it's about the love and memories that go into making it.

One of my fondest memories of making this Satay Peanut Sauce was when my granddaughter, Sarah, asked me to teach her how to make it. She had always been curious about my culinary adventures and wanted to learn the secrets of my recipes. I was overjoyed to pass down this tradition to her and to see her passion for cooking grow.

As we stood side by side in the kitchen, grinding the peanuts, stirring the coconut milk, and adding the spices, I shared stories of my travels and the people I had met along the way. I told her about the old woman in Java who had first taught me this recipe, and how her generosity and warmth had left a lasting impression on me.

As we sat down to enjoy the Satay Peanut Sauce with grilled chicken skewers, I could see the pride and satisfaction in Sarah's eyes. She had not only mastered the recipe but had also embraced the spirit of sharing and connection that food brings. I knew that she would carry on this tradition with love and care, just as I had done.

And so, this recipe for Satay Peanut Sauce has become more than just a dish for me. It is a symbol of my journey through different cultures, a reminder of the people I have met, and a way to pass down my love for cooking to the next generation. As I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I hope that it brings joy, comfort, and a sense of togetherness to all who taste it.