Peanut sauce

Peanut sauce is a sauce made from peanuts, widely used in various cuisines around the world. It is known for its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture. Peanut sauce is particularly popular in Indonesian cuisine, where it is known as bumbu kacang or sambal kacang. It is also a staple in Thai cuisine, Malaysian cuisine, and Vietnamese cuisine.

Ingredients

The primary ingredient in peanut sauce is ground or crushed peanuts. Other common ingredients include:

• Soy sauce
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Lime juice
• Coconut milk
• Chili peppers
• Brown sugar or palm sugar
• Fish sauce (in some variations)

Preparation

Peanut sauce can be prepared in various ways, but the basic method involves blending or mixing the peanuts with the other ingredients until a smooth consistency is achieved. The sauce can be adjusted to taste, with more or less of each ingredient added depending on personal preference.

Uses

Peanut sauce is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, including:

• Satay: Grilled meat skewers served with peanut sauce.
• Gado-gado: An Indonesian salad of mixed vegetables served with peanut sauce.
• Spring rolls: Fresh or fried rolls often served with peanut sauce for dipping.
• Noodles: Peanut sauce can be used as a dressing for noodle dishes.
• Dipping sauce: For vegetables, meats, or other appetizers.

Regional Variations

Indonesia

In Indonesia, peanut sauce is a key component of many traditional dishes. It is often spicier and more aromatic due to the use of local spices and ingredients.

Thailand

Thai peanut sauce, known as nam jim satay, is typically sweeter and creamier, often incorporating coconut milk and a hint of lime.

Malaysia

Malaysian peanut sauce, or kuah kacang, is similar to the Indonesian version but may include additional ingredients like tamarind paste for a tangy flavor.

Vietnam

In Vietnam, peanut sauce is commonly used as a dipping sauce for fresh spring rolls, known as gỏi cuốn. It is usually lighter and less sweet than its Thai counterpart.

Health Benefits

Peanut sauce, when consumed in moderation, can be a good source of protein and healthy fats. However, it is also high in calories and should be eaten in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

See Also

• Satay
• Gado-gado
• Indonesian cuisine
• Thai cuisine
• Malaysian cuisine
• Vietnamese cuisine