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Spicy Peanut Sauce

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This versatile spicy peanut sauce is a store-cupboard staple that brings a punchy, savoury depth to any meal. Combining the richness of smooth peanut butter with the sweet-salty complexity of hoisin and a subtle heat from dried chilli flakes, it is a beautifully balanced condiment. The addition of tomato purée provides a hint of acidity and a vibrant colour, making it far more sophisticated than a standard satay dip.

As a simple vegan recipe, this sauce is ideal for busy weeknights when you need to elevate a basic stir-fry or grain bowl. It works equally well as a dipping sauce for fresh summer rolls or drizzled over charred broccoli and tofu. You can easily prepare a batch in advance to keep in the fridge, ensuring a quick flavour boost is always ready whenever you need it.

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Ingredients for Spicy Peanut Sauce

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1/4 teaspoons dried hot red pepper flakes, or to taste

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste

  • 45ml creamy peanut butter

  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce

  • 1/2 teaspoons sugar

  • 180ml water

How to make Spicy Peanut Sauce

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In a small saucepan cook garlic and red pepper flakes in oil over moderate heat, stirring, until garlic is golden. Whisk in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil, whisking. Simmer sauce, whisking, until thickened, about 1 minute. Sauce may be made 3 days ahead and chilled, covered.

Serve sauce warm or at room temperature.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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