There’s something about the rich, savory-sweet aroma of satay sauce that always brings people to the table. Whether we’re using it as a dip, marinade, or drizzle—it’s one of those go-to sauces that works with just about everything.

The first time I made homemade satay sauce, it wasn’t because I planned a fancy dinner. It was actually because we ran out of dipping sauce for our chicken skewers, and I didn’t feel like heading to the store.

The kids were already at the table (forks in hand), so I improvised with what I had. That’s how our now family-favorite satay sauce came to be.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, uses simple pantry ingredients, and tastes so much better than anything you can buy in a jar.

Creamy satay sauce topped with chopped peanuts, red pepper flakes, and fresh cilantro in a copper bowl

Classic Satay Sauce – Homemade, Easy & Crowd-Pleasing

There’s something magical about the rich, nutty aroma of satay sauce that instantly gathers everyone around the table.

This version, born out of a happy kitchen accident, has become a beloved staple in our house.

It’s made with pantry staples, comes together in minutes, and beats anything store-bought in both flavor and freshness.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 5

Course Condiment, Dip, Sauce

Cuisine Southeast Asian-inspired

Servings 6

Calories 110 kcal

Equipment

Small saucepan
Wooden spoon or whisk
Measuring cups and spoons
Grater (for fresh ginger)
Garlic press or knife (if using fresh garlic)

Ingredients

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter (unsweetened preferred)
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp sesame oil (optional, adds depth)
1 clove garlic, minced (or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
1/2 tsp grated ginger (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
1 tsp rice vinegar or lime juice
1/2 cup coconut milk (or water for a lighter version)
1/2-1 tsp chili sauce or sriracha, to taste
Pinch of salt, to taste

Instructions

Warm It Up
In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the peanut butter, coconut milk (or water), and brown sugar.
Stir gently until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
Add the Flavor
Stir in soy sauce, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, vinegar or lime juice, and chili sauce.
Mix continuously until the sauce is creamy, heated through, and pourable.
Taste & Tweak
Taste the sauce. Too thick? Add more coconut milk or water, a tablespoon at a time.
Need more heat? Add extra chili sauce. Too salty? Balance with a touch more brown sugar or honey.
Serve or Store
Remove from heat and serve warm as a dip or let cool and refrigerate.
It will thicken slightly in the fridge but stays creamy and spreadable.

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

Make It Creamier: Use full-fat coconut milk for a richer texture.
Adjust to Your Taste: This recipe is super forgiving—more spice, tang, or sweetness can all be dialed in.
Fresh is Best: Fresh garlic and ginger boost the flavor, but powders work in a pinch.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Keyword Dipping Sauce, Easy Condiment, Homemade, Peanut Sauce, Satay Sauce

What to Serve With Satay Sauce: The Ultimate Pairing Guide

Category	Delicious Ideas
Classic Skewers	– Chicken Satay Skewers (the original) – Beef Skewers – Pork Skewers
	– Lamb Skewers – Grilled Shrimp – Grilled Tofu or Tempeh (vegetarian)
Family-Friendly Dippers	– Chicken Nuggets – Sweet Potato Fries – Waffle Fries – Mozzarella Sticks
	– Fresh Spring Rolls – Egg Rolls – Rice Paper Rolls
	– Veggie Sticks (Carrots, Cucumbers, Bell Peppers, Celery)
Drizzle or Sauce Ideas	– Rice or Jasmine Rice Bowls – Noodles (Udon, Soba, Rice Noodles)
	– Buddha Bowls – Stir-Fried Veggies – Couscous or Quinoa Bowls
	– On Lettuce Cups or Wraps (Chicken, Beef, Veggie)
	– Grilled Veggie Platters
Creative Uses	– Satay Pizza (as base sauce with grilled toppings)
	– Sandwich Spread (on grilled chicken wraps or paninis)
	– Dip for Dumplings or Gyoza – Baste for Grilled Meats
	– Salad Dressing (thinned out with a splash of lime juice or water)
Party or Snack Boards	– Add to Charcuterie Boards with crackers, veggies, and grilled meats
	– Serve as a warm fondue-style dip with skewers and bites

A Family Favorite for a Reason

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Greedy Model (@thegreedymodel)

For me, this sauce is more than just a recipe. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights. It’s something I can whip up while helping with homework or folding laundry. It’s the dip that makes plain grilled chicken a dinner win.

My kids now request “that peanut sauce” regularly. And I love that it’s homemade, wholesome, and easy to customize based on what we’re eating. Honestly, we’ve used it for everything from party platters to lunchbox dippers.

If you’ve never made satay sauce from scratch before, let this be your sign to try it. It’s quick, customizable, and made with ingredients you probably already have.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd, tossing together an easy dinner, or looking for a new way to get your kids to eat their veggies, this classic satay sauce delivers every time.

A Classic Satay Sauce Recipe Broken Down into Simple Steps