This post may contain affiliate links, including those from Amazon.com, which means we earn a small commission off your purchases. And here's the thing: We only mention services and products that we think are truly worth your attention, whether they're free, paid, or otherwise. This site relies on YOUR trust, so if we don't stand behind a product 110%, it's not mentioned. Period.
When vegetables are plentiful this time of year, a quick meal I love to prepare is a simple sauté of whatever vegetables we have on hand, a pot of rice, and this simple Pad Thai-inspired peanut sauce to pour over everything.
Of course, I'll be the first to admit that I'm a sucker for nutty flavors, so peanut sauces have long been a favorite, like Pad Thai and chicken satays. But somehow this one works well with other nuts too, such as cashews or even almonds, depending on the flavor you're going for. Mmmm…. almond chicken, anyone?
It takes about 5-7 minutes to prepare, so it definitely fits my definition of a quick, easy meal. It's also a great recipe for having kids help measure, add ingredients, and push buttons. 🙂
What's proliferating in your garden, in your CSA, or at your local farmer's market these days?
- 1 cup shelled peanuts OR 3/4 cup creamy peanut butter (see how to make homemade creamy peanut butter)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (see how to make your own brown sugar)
- 2 tablespoons traditionally fermented soy sauce (I love this one)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce - optional (see how to make homemade fish sauce)
- 4 tablespoons red curry paste
- 2-inches fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar, more as desired
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, more as desired
- 1/2 cup water, more as desired
- Place peanuts or peanut butter in a food processor and grind until very smooth.
- Add the remaining ingredients EXCEPT for the water and process again until smooth. Then, with the motor running, drizzle in the water until you reach your desired consistency. I prefer a very pourable sauce that's still thick enough to be spoonable, but add water to your liking.
- Serve over rice, stir-fried meats, or sauteed vegetables at room temperature or warm on the stove over medium-low heat, whisking often.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to three days.
editor picks
Homemade Food Coloring: How to Make Natural Food Dyes
Avoid the toxins of conventional food dyes by using natural food dyes you can easily [...]
The PRINTABLE Guide to How to Use Essential Oils Safely
Essential oils are a huge gift for those of us who want to treat and [...]
Homemade Corn Dogs
Corn dogs are typically junk food (even though they taste SO good!). So make them [...]
How to Teach Your Child to Pack Their Own Healthy Lunch + Healthy Homemade Lunchables
Making healthy homemade lunchables is super-simple and keeps lunch packing from being a chore. With [...]
How to Grow a Garden You’ll Actually Use
Everyone can - and should! - grow at least a bit of their food, so [...]
Teacher Gift Ideas: 12 Thoughtful Gifts Teachers Will Appreciate (and 8 to Avoid)
Good teachers are worth their weight in gold. So why not thank them in ways [...]
Raising Global Citizens: A Father’s Reflections
A father reflects on raising children who are connected to family and community and who [...]
21+ MORE Non-Toy Gifts for Children
If your children are already overrun with toys - or you're just wanting the best [...]
How to Make Homemade Potting Soil
Homemade potting soil is a breeze to make and will give your plants a great [...]
22 Little-Known Tips to {Really} Clean Your Home
Knowing your home is truly clean is deep-down satisfying, so here's a handful of my [...]
Homemade Dusting Spray and Wood Polish
This homemade dusting spray is thick like a commercial spray, smells lovely from your favorite [...]
Father’s Day Gift Idea: Make Your Own Book About Dad
Want a heart-felt gift (or a last minute one!) for Father's Day this year? Make [...]