How to Make Vietnamese Chili Peanut Sauce
Vietnamese Chili Peanut Sauce is a delightful combination of flavors that adds depth to a variety of dishes. Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or as a marinade, this sauce balances the heat of chilies with the creaminess of peanuts. In this article, we’ll explore how to make this delicious sauce at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
- 2-3 red chili peppers (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- Water (as needed for consistency)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Peanuts
Start by coarsely grinding the unsalted roasted peanuts in a food processor. You want a mixture that’s slightly chunky, providing texture to your sauce. Avoid over-processing to the point of turning it into a paste.
2. Heat the Ingredients
In a small saucepan, combine the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, sugar, and minced garlic. Heat the mixture over low heat until the sugar has completely dissolved, stirring constantly.
3. Blend in the Chili Peppers
While the sauce is warming, take the red chili peppers and chop them finely. If you prefer a milder sauce, remove the seeds before chopping. Add the chopped chilies to the warm sauce in the saucepan.
4. Combine the Mixture
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the ground peanuts. Mix everything until well combined. If the sauce is too thick for your liking, gradually add water until you achieve your desired consistency.
5. Taste and Adjust
Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the flavors as needed. You can add more chili for heat, lime juice for acidity, or sugar for sweetness. The goal is to find a balance that suits your palate.
Storing Your Sauce
Store any leftover Vietnamese Chili Peanut Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to one week. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile sauce pairs well with spring rolls, grilled meats, or as a dressing for salads. Drizzle it over noodles or use it as a dip for fresh vegetables for a flavor-packed experience.
Vietnamese Chili Peanut Sauce is not only easy to make but also elevates any dish it accompanies. Enjoy your culinary creation and impress your friends and family with this homemade delight!