Easy Gado Gado Peanut Sauce Recipe

Indonesian Gado Gado Peanut Sauce Recipe

Gado Gado translates to "mix mix," reflecting its versatile nature. A beloved dish in Indonesia, the peanut sauce is the star of the meal. While traditionally made with a mortar and pestle, this recipe offers a modern twist using store-bought crunchy peanut butter. Perfect for salads, grilled veggies, or even as a dip, this sauce is simple, delicious, and endlessly adaptable.

Ingredients

• 1 Tbsp peanut oil (or vegetable oil)
• 2 shallots, finely sliced
• 1 fennel bulb, finely sliced (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, finely sliced
• 2 Tbsp fish sauce or soy sauce (for a vegan option)
• 1 Tbsp tamarind paste
• 1 large red chilli, finely sliced
• 25g lemongrass, finely sliced
• 220g crunchy peanut butter (adjust to taste)
• Juice of 1 lime
• Brown sugar or palm sugar, to taste
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Aromatics:

   • Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced shallots and sauté for 3 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the fennel (if using) and garlic, and cook until the shallots are translucent and lightly browned.

2. Build the Flavour:

   • Stir in the lemongrass and red chilli. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until fragrant.
   • Add the tamarind paste, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sugar (if needed). Stir well.

3. Combine and Adjust:

   • Reduce the heat to low. Slowly add the lime juice while mixing.
   • Stir in the peanut butter until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust with sugar or salt as needed.

4. Optional Traditional Method:

   • If using whole peanuts, transfer the mixture to a mortar and pestle at this stage. Mash everything together until smooth, then return to the pan.

5. Serve:

   • Pair the Gado Gado sauce with rice, roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, lettuce, grilled cauliflower, or tofu. It’s also excellent as a dip for chips or veggies.

Tips for Serving:

• Traditional Pairing: Serve with a salad of roasted sweet potatoes, green beans, and crunchy lettuce.
• Grilled Vegetables: Use it as a sauce for grilled peppers, cauliflower, or zucchini.
• Storage: Freeze extra sauce in portions to enjoy throughout the year.

Enjoy this rich and flavourful peanut sauce as part of your favourite dishes. Its savoury, tangy, and slightly sweet notes will elevate any meal!