Homemade Satay Sauce: Easy Vietnamese Recipe

Craving the rich, nutty, and subtly sweet flavor of authentic satay sauce? Look no further! This easy Vietnamese recipe unlocks the secrets to creating this addictive condiment right in your own kitchen. Forget expensive takeout – you'll be amazed at how simple it is to craft a satay sauce that rivals your favorite restaurant's version. We'll guide you through the process, using readily available ingredients to achieve a depth of flavor that will elevate any dish.

This homemade satay sauce is incredibly versatile, perfect for marinating meats before grilling, as a dipping sauce for spring rolls and grilled vegetables, or even as a flavorful addition to noodles. Ready to transform your culinary creations with this delicious sauce? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and begin crafting your own flavorful masterpiece.

Tools Needed

• Blender or food processor
• Pot
• Jar

Ingredients

• Chili (red): 100g
• Garlic: 100g
• Lemongrass: 100g
• Shallots: 100g
• Fried shallot oil: 100ml
• Cooking oil: 500ml + 100ml
• Evenly colored grain (five-spice powder): 30g
• Salt: 1/4 teaspoon + a little
• Pepper: 2 tablespoons
• Dried chili: null

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare Aromatics and Infused Oil

• Peel and prepare garlic and shallots.
• In a pot, heat 50-100ml of cooking oil with the evenly colored grain for 7-10 minutes until fragrant and colored.
• Set aside the colored oil.
• Slice lemongrass, garlic, and shallots thinly, or blend them to a paste.

Step 2. Sauté Aromatics in Hot Oil

• Heat 500ml of cooking oil in a pot. Add a little salt to enhance flavor and preservation.
• Add the blended garlic, shallots, and lemongrass to the hot oil. Cook for 20-25 minutes until fragrant and golden brown.

Step 3. Combine and Season

• Add the reserved colored oil.
• Stir well. Let the satay cool slightly, then add pepper and dried chili to taste.
• Finally, add 100ml of fried shallot oil (or cooking oil if unavailable). Stir well to combine.

Step 4. Cool and Store

• Let the satay cool completely. Store in an airtight jar for later use.

Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe

Tips

• If you don't have fried shallot oil, use regular cooking oil instead.
• Adding a little salt helps preserve the satay longer.
• Adjust the amount of dried chili based on your spice preference.
• Add oil to help cool the satay quickly and prevent burning.
• Cooking time may vary depending on heat level. Adjust as needed.

Nutrition

• N/A

FAQs

1. Can I make this satay sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors actually deepen if you make it a day or two in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

2. What can I use this satay sauce on?

It's incredibly versatile! Use it as a marinade for chicken, beef, or tofu, a dipping sauce for spring rolls or grilled vegetables, or even as a flavor boost for noodles or rice dishes.

3. What if I don't have all the ingredients listed?

Don't worry! You can substitute similar ingredients. For example, if you don't have fish sauce, you can try soy sauce, but adjust the amount to taste. Peanut butter can be substituted for tahini.

With its rich flavor and effortless preparation, this homemade satay sauce is a true culinary gem. Now you can enjoy the authentic taste of Vietnamese cuisine whenever you desire, without the hassle of takeout or expensive ingredients. So go ahead, impress your friends and family with this simple yet incredibly flavorful recipe!