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Vietnamese Peanut Sauce for Spring Rolls

About Peanut Sauce

An intrinsic part of Vietnamese gastronomy, peanut sauce brings a flavorful depth to Vietnam’s much-loved spring rolls. This savory, subtly sweet condiment is prepared from roasted peanuts, creating a rich and creamy texture that perfectly complements the freshness of the rolls. Infused with a blend of traditional Vietnamese ingredients, it strikes a balance between tangy, sweet, and spicy undertones. The delight of biting into a fresh spring roll and experiencing the rich, nutty flavor of the peanut sauce is a culinary treat that is quintessentially Vietnamese. This authentic Vietnamese peanut sauce is not just a dip, but a traditional and delicious way to elevate your spring roll experience.

Ingredients Needed 

  • ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1/2 cup of roasted peanuts 
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • ¼ cup hoisin sauce (optional)
  • 2 cloves of garlic, peeled and minced 
  • 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup or sugar 
  • 2 tablespoons of fish sauce/soy sauce
  • ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

Instructions

  1. In a compact saucepan, warm up the oil over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it releases its aromatic scent.
  2. Add the creamy peanut butter, rice vinegar, honey or maple syrup or sugar, and fish sauce/soy sauce. Stir until everything is well-combined and simmer for 5 minutes over low heat. 
  3. Reduce the heat to low and allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until it thickens. 
  4. If you find the sauce too thick for your preference, you can carefully incorporate some water. Add the water gradually, stirring continuously to maintain the desired consistency. Be cautious not to add too much at once to avoid making the sauce excessively thin.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired (adding more fish sauce/soy sauce if desired). Stir in hoisin sauce (if using) and allow to cook for another minute.
  6. Take the pan off from the heat and let cool and add some roasted peanuts before serving

Customizing the Sauce to Your Palate

The beauty of homemade sauce lies in its versatility and adaptability to your personal preferences. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, consider adding a dash of chili powder or a squeeze of Sriracha for some heat. If you have a sweet tooth, slightly increasing the quantity of honey or maple syrup can enhance the sweetness. Fans of tanginess might want to introduce more rice vinegar into the mix. Likewise, if the umami of the fish sauce appeals to your taste buds, feel free to increase its amount. Remember, the key to a delightful peanut sauce is achieving a balance that suits your palate. Taste and adjust as you cook, making your authentic Vietnamese Peanut Sauce truly yours.

Tips and Tricks 

  • Feel free to adjust the ingredients to your taste! For example, adding a bit more honey will make it sweeter, while extra fish sauce or soy sauce can give it a saltier kick. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors to find what works best for you! 
  • For an even creamier texture, try adding a bit of coconut milk or olive oil to the mixture. 
  • Make sure to use fresh ingredients for optimal flavor. Peanuts that are stale will give a duller taste to the sauce. 

Storing Your Peanut Sauce

Once the sauce has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or jar. The peanut sauce will last up to a week in the fridge if stored properly. When reheating, make sure that the sauce is heated through and at a temperature above 140°F before consuming.

Serving Ideas

Peanut sauce is the perfect accompaniment to traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. However, it can be enjoyed in many other ways too! Try using your homemade peanut sauce as a marinade for chicken or pork, as a topping for salads, or even as a dip with fresh veggies. It’s also delicious as an accompaniment to steamed dumplings and other Asian-style dishes. Get creative and discover the many ways you can enjoy your own flavorful creation! 

Recipe Variations

No two spring rolls are the same, and neither should your peanut sauce! Try out different variations to accommodate all sorts of dietary restrictions or preferences. For a vegan-friendly option, replace the fish sauce with tamari, coconut aminos or soy sauce. If you’re trying to reduce your sugar intake, substitute honey with date syrup or maple syrup for a healthier alternative. You can also incorporate different ingredients depending on your preference, such as adding a bit of fresh ginger or minced lemongrass for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to make the perfect peanut sauce just for you! 

Conclusion

This delectable homemade peanut sauce is a must-have condiment for your spring roll experience. With the right balance of ingredients and its versatility, you can customize it to suit your own palate. Try out this recipe to enjoy an authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine and relish in the deliciousness of every bite! Happy cooking! 

FAQs

Is Peanut Sauce Gluten-Free?

Most homemade peanut sauces are gluten-free. To double check, make sure to use certified gluten-free ingredients when preparing the sauce. 

How Do I Make My Peanut Sauce Spicier?

To add a spicy kick to your peanut sauce, try adding chili powder or sriracha. You can also incorporate different ingredients depending on your preference, such as adding a bit of fresh ginger or minced lemongrass for an extra zesty kick. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to make the perfect spicy peanut sauce just for you! 

Can I Make Peanut Sauce Without Fish Sauce?

It is possible to make peanut sauce without fish sauce. To make a vegan-friendly version, substitute the fish sauce with tamari, coconut aminos or soy sauce. You can also adjust the other ingredients according to your preference. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to create your own unique peanut sauce! 

What Are The Best Dishes To Serve With Peanut Sauce?

Peanut sauce is a great accompaniment for traditional Vietnamese spring rolls. However, it can be enjoyed in many other ways as well! Try using your homemade peanut sauce as a marinade for chicken or pork, as a topping for salads, or even as a dip with fresh veggies. It’s also delicious as an accompaniment to steamed dumplings and other Asian-style dishes. Get creative and discover the many ways you can enjoy your own flavorful creation! 

Is Peanut Sauce Healthy?

Peanut sauce can be considered healthy depending on how it is prepared. Make sure to use all-natural ingredients and keep an eye on the sugar and sodium content when creating your own sauce. Enjoy experimenting with flavors to make a healthier version of peanut sauce that suits your taste!