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Chilli Peanut Dressing - A Bold, Creamy Sauce for Salads, Noodles, and More

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup smooth peanut butter (natural or regular)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (about 1 large lime)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
  • 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, to taste
  • 1–2 teaspoons chilli paste (sambal oelek), or 1–2 teaspoons sriracha, or 1 fresh red chilli finely minced
  • 1 small garlic clove, grated or minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but recommended)
  • 2–5 tablespoons warm water, to thin
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil (optional for depth)
  • Pinch of sea salt, to taste

Method
 

  1. Prep your aromatics: Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. If using fresh chilli, remove seeds for less heat and chop finely.
  2. Whisk the base: In a medium bowl, add peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, rice vinegar, and maple syrup or honey.
  3. Add the heat and aroma: Stir in the chilli paste (or sriracha/fresh chilli), garlic, and ginger. Add sesame oil if using.
  4. Thin to your liking: Whisk in warm water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. For dipping, keep it thicker; for drizzling, add more water.
  5. Taste and adjust: Add more lime for brightness, soy for saltiness, syrup for sweetness, or chilli for heat. Finish with a pinch of salt if needed.
  6. Serve or store: Use immediately or transfer to a jar. The flavor deepens after 15–20 minutes as it rests.