Quick & easy low-fat Thai peanut sauce (Vegan, No oil) * Plant Based Recipes: Easy Oil Free Vegan Recipes (2024)

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I have been meaning to make a low-fat peanut sauce for ages. There are many recipes of course, but I had some red Thai curry paste to use up and thought this might be a great and easy addition of spices in my peanut sauce. I also wanted to use peanut flour for a low-fat version, and also because peanut flour doesn’t aggravate my system the way peanut butter does (food intolerance).

I didn’t know how to thicken it up nicely without using coconut milk, as I always had in the past. While delicious, we have completely excluded it from our diet after going low-fat earlier this year (for reasons McDougall and Esselstyn, among others, advocate). So what to use? Silken tofu is one way to thicken up sauces, so I added this into the sauce and it turned out great. The peanut flour adds a ton of flavor also without the fat. If you cannot find peanut flour, you can use powdered peanut butter instead (the only difference is sweetener).


Quick & easy low-fat Thai peanut sauce (Vegan, No oil) * Plant Based Recipes: Easy Oil Free Vegan Recipes (3)

Low fat vegan thai peanut sauce (Quick version)

This low fat thai peanut sauce does not use coconut milk, oil, or any animal products. Vegan, low fat and delicious!

3.88 from 8 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: Sauces, Spreads & Condiments

Cuisine: Asian, Thai

Keyword: apple cider vinegar, massaman curry paste, peanut flour, plant-based milk, powdered peanut butter, red curry paste, tofu

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 8 Servings

Calories: 33kcal

Author: Jen deHaan

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup defatted peanut flour Or sub powdered peanut butter. See notes.
  • 3 oz tofu firm or silken, plain
  • 2 Tbsp red curry paste See notes
  • 1.5 oz non-dairy milk cashew, oat, rice etc
  • 1.5 oz apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp maple syrup or stevia to taste, optional

Instructions

  • Combine all ingredients in a food processor or blender and combine until smooth.

  • This recipe is a somewhat thick consistency, and can be used as a spread or dip or mixed into noodle dishes. Add additional vinegar and/or water for a thinner consistency suitable for bowls or drizzles.

Notes

Peanut flour: Because peanut flour is not sweetened, you may want to add an additional tablespoon of maple syrup, or some additional stevia.

Spice paste: Make sure your red curry paste does not contain animal ingredients or oil. Maesri, Aroy-D or Thai Kitchen Red Curry Paste is one example that fits this description. You can also use Massaman (Masaman) Curry paste for a less-spicy version of this sauce, but you will also have to check the ingredients (there are vegan versions out there. Of course, you can always make your own too.

Nutrition Facts

Low fat vegan thai peanut sauce (Quick version)

Serving Size

2 Tbsp

Amount per Serving

Calories

33

% Daily Value*

Fat

g

%

Cholesterol

mg

%

Sodium

10

mg

%

Potassium

55

mg

2

%

Carbohydrates

3

g

1

%

Fiber

g

%

Sugar

1

g

1

%

Protein

3

g

6

%

Vitamin C

0.7

mg

1

%

Calcium

33

mg

3

%

Iron

0.3

mg

2

%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.

Tried this recipe? Customized it?Let us know how it was in the comments!

There are many alternative spices you could add. If you need to add a bit of additional heat, use some thai chili hot sauce or paste. You can add a bit of tamarind paste for some extra citrus.

This sauce goes wonderfully in noodle dishes, of course. I added it to my lunch of ramen noodles and leftover broccoli slaw – a rather odd combination (emptying out the fridge), but combined perfectly flavor wise (I added some red chili flakes for heat). It will work as a dip for vegetables, a spread in a wrap, or a stir fry with broccoli and bean sprouts.

Tonight I thinned out this sauce to make a salad/bowl dressing. I added a few heaping spoonfuls of the sauce, and a bit of water, apple cider vinegar, a touch of maple syrup, and a squirt of Sriracha for heat before mixing it well with a whisk.

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  • Author
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Jen deHaan

Owner at Plant Based Recipe

Jen is a plant-based nutrition enthusiast and vegan living in British Columbia, Canada. She has over 20 years experience in software, graphics, and art, including many years in Silicon Valley corporations. Jen completed the Developing Healthy Communities graduate program at Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. Jen really likes dogs and dancing too.

Latest posts by Jen deHaan (see all)

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About Post Author

Jen deHaan

Jen is a plant-based nutrition enthusiast and vegan living in British Columbia, Canada. She has over 20 years experience in software, graphics, and art, including many years in Silicon Valley corporations. Jen completed the Developing Healthy Communities graduate program at Tufts University’s Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. Jen really likes dogs and dancing too.

See author's posts

About Jen deHaan

Jen is a plant-based nutrition enthusiast and vegan living in British Columbia, Canada. She has over 20 years experience in software, graphics, and art, including many years in Silicon Valley corporations. Jen completed the Developing Healthy Communities graduate program at Tufts University's Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy. Jen really likes dogs and dancing too.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Colleen

    Quick & easy low-fat Thai peanut sauce (Vegan, No oil) * Plant Based Recipes: Easy Oil Free Vegan Recipes (14)
    Thank you for the great recipe. It is delicious! I follow Esselstyn’s diet and this recipe is perfect!

    Reply

  2. Gail

    Quick & easy low-fat Thai peanut sauce (Vegan, No oil) * Plant Based Recipes: Easy Oil Free Vegan Recipes (15)
    I made this today using PB2 instead of peanut flour and stevia. I poured it over steamed shirataki & oat fibre spaghetti noodles and steamed broccoli and snap peas. Delicious!!! Then I tried it with a bit of soy sauce. Delicious!!! And then I tried it with a tiny bit of True Lime crystals. Delicious!!! Thank you!!!

    Reply

    • Gail

      And, yes, I ate it for breakfast. YUM!!!

      Reply

    • Jen @ Plant Based Recipe

      Hi Gail – thanks SO much for letting us know it went well, and the application sounds SO good! Love that you tried it with a bit of True Lime crystals and for breakfast too! Inspiration happening over here 🙂

      Reply

  3. Theresa D Esterline

    I just want to make sure this is 2 TB red curry paste… it says 2 TB cup red curry paste… I’m thinking the cup is in error, yes?

    Reply

  4. Kyla Dimmett

    The recipe says 8 servings. How many ounces or tsp. in one serving please?

    Reply

    • Jen @ Plant Based Recipe

      Hi Kyla! It’s roughly 2 Tbsp (sorry, my really old recipes didn’t have the option to enter this!)

      Reply

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Quick & easy low-fat Thai peanut sauce (Vegan, No oil) * Plant Based Recipes: Easy Oil Free Vegan Recipes (2024)

FAQs

Is Thai Peanut Sauce bad for you? ›

Peanut sauce is a popular accompaniment to satay, grilled chicken or tofu and a wide variety of Asian-inspired dishes, particularly dishes from Thailand. While most peanut sauces do contain nutrient-packed ingredients, they're also high in calories and fat, making them healthy choices -- but only in moderation.

What is a substitute for peanut butter in Thai food? ›

First of all, substitute the peanut butter with either cashew butter (my personal first choice) or if you have tree nut allergies or sensitivities, use sunflower seed butter instead. The popular brand is Sunbutter and they have both an organic version as well as an unsweetened version.

What is Thai Peanut Sauce made of? ›

Thai Peanut Sauce is made up of peanut butter, soy sauce, ginger, a sweetener (I used maple syrup), rice wine vinegar, sesame seeds, a spice and water. In some more traditional versions, coconut milk is used instead of water, but I find this combination to be perfect.

What is the difference between satay sauce and peanut sauce? ›

Although commonly associated with Thai cuisine, peanut sauce actually originated in Indonesia (source). What Americans know as peanut sauce is more commonly referred to as satay sauce (or bumbu kacang) in Indonesia, because it's most often served with the popular Indonesian dish, satay (skewered, grilled meats).

What is unhealthy in Thai food? ›

Thai dishes to limit

These include fried foods and meals that are high in sugar and sodium. Thai menus also include some less healthy options, like fried appetizers and drinks made with added sugars.

Is peanut paste bad for cholesterol? ›

Due to its high amount of unsaturated fats, peanut butter may help reduce a person's LDL cholesterol levels. Having optimal LDL levels is linked with a lower risk of heart disease. A 2015 study found that people who had a high intake of nuts may have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease mortality.

What can I use instead of peanut butter for low fat? ›

6 Healthy Peanut Butter Alternatives
  • Almond Butter. Almond butter has a similar nutritional value to peanut butter, with peanut butter containing more protein. ...
  • Sunflower Seed Butter. For anyone who has a tree nut allergy, sunflower seed butter is an obvious alternative. ...
  • Pecan Butter. ...
  • Tahini. ...
  • Cashew Butter. ...
  • Walnut Butter.
Jul 19, 2021

What is Wowbutter made of? ›

Our WOWBUTTER is ALL NATURAL, NON-GMO and NO STIR (under normal conditions, the oil does not separate like other natural spreads)! Our ALL NATURAL NON-GMO ingredients are as follows: Whole Toasted Soy, Pressed Soy Oil, Cane Sugar, Palm Oil (Sustainable), Sea Salt.

What can replace peanut butter in a recipe? ›

Peanut Butter Alternatives
  1. Sunflower butter. Sunflower butter is a great option for those who are allergic to not just peanuts but also tree nuts. ...
  2. Almond butter (only if you are not allergic to tree nuts) Almond butter has become a very popular spread. ...
  3. Soy butter. ...
  4. Pea butter.
Jul 11, 2019

Do you have to refrigerate Thai peanut sauce? ›

Simply keep it in a cool, dark place. Generally, an unopened bottle of peanut sauce will last about a year if it's stored correctly. While it's a good idea to keep the “use by” date in mind, it's usually just fine for a few months after that date. Once the bottle is opened, you'll need to keep it in the refrigerator.

Do they eat peanut sauce in Thailand? ›

In Thailand, Peanut Sauce is most often used a as a dip to accompany skewers of barbequed meat (satay), although it is sometimes served as a side dish in its own right as part of a larger meal.

How long does Thai peanut sauce last in the fridge? ›

How long with the sauce last? The Peanut Sauce will last up to 1 week in a tightly sealed container in the fridge.

What is the difference between Chinese and Thai satay? ›

The Chinese take out version of Chicken in Satay Sauce is quite different from Malaysian, Thai and Indonesian Satay Sauce. It's less coconut-y and less peanut-y (are they real words??), doesn't have bits of crushed peanuts in the sauce, and has a stronger flavour from satay seasoning.

What is Chinese peanut sauce made of? ›

In a small bowl, stir together peanut butter, soy sauce, sugar, hot pepper sauce and garlic until well mixed. Gradually stir in water until texture is smooth and creamy.

Is Satay Sauce Chinese or Thai? ›

Satay sauce, often referred to as peanut sauce is a sauce widely used in Thai cuisine, Malaysian cuisine, Indonesian cuisine, and Chinese cuisine. (under different names) It is also used in some European cuisine.

How healthy is peanut sauce? ›

Peanut sauce can be a healthy addition to any diet. Since it is made from peanut butter, it naturally has some protein. Look for ones with not a lot of sodium or added sugar. Better yet, when making it at home, you have full control over the quality of the ingredients.

How many calories are in Thai peanut sauce? ›

Archer Farms Thai Peanut Sauce (2 tbsp) contains 6g total carbs, 5g net carbs, 3.5g fat, 2g protein, and 60 calories.

Is Thai peanut sauce high in sugar? ›

Thai peanut sauce, thai peanut by Hy-Vee, Inc. Thai peanut sauce by BRANDLESS contains 35 calories per 18 g serving. This serving contains 2 g of fat, 1 g of protein and 3 g of carbohydrate. The latter is 3 g sugar and 1 g of dietary fiber, the rest is complex carbohydrate.

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