Ayam Satay Sauce Vegetarian Recipe Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: September 30, 2025

If you’re craving the rich and nutty flavors of traditional Ayam Satay sauce but want to keep it vegetarian-friendly, this recipe is your perfect match. Satay sauce, known for its creamy texture and bold taste, is typically made with peanut butter and a blend of spices that create a mouthwatering balance of sweet, savory, and spicy notes.

Our vegetarian take skips the chicken and focuses on the sauce itself, making it a versatile condiment that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, tofu, tempeh, or even as a dip for fresh spring rolls.

This vegetarian Ayam Satay sauce recipe is incredibly easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers authentic Southeast Asian flavors right in your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add a plant-based twist to a classic dish, this sauce will become your go-to for elevating meals.

Plus, it’s gluten-free and can be adjusted to suit your spice preferences. Dive in and discover how to whip up this creamy, flavorful sauce that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Ayam Satay sauce is an absolute game-changer for anyone who loves bold flavors without the meat. It’s:

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with no complicated steps.
  • Versatile: Perfect as a dipping sauce, marinade, or drizzle over your favorite vegetarian dishes.
  • Healthy: Made with wholesome ingredients, including natural peanut butter and fresh spices.
  • Customizable: Adjust the heat and sweetness to suit your taste buds.
  • Plant-based and allergy-friendly: This recipe is free from animal products and can be modified for soy-free diets.

If you enjoy recipes with exciting vegetable flavors, you might also want to check out our Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals for more inspiration.

Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
Natural peanut butter (unsweetened) 1/2 cup
Coconut milk 1/2 cup
Soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free) 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar or coconut sugar 1 tablespoon
Fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Fresh ginger, grated 1 teaspoon
Red chili flakes or sambal oelek 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
Water 2-4 tablespoons (to thin sauce as needed)
Crushed roasted peanuts (optional, for garnish) 2 tablespoons

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl: To combine all the ingredients smoothly.
  • Whisk or fork: For mixing the sauce until creamy.
  • Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
  • Grater or microplane: For fresh ginger.
  • Knife and cutting board: To mince garlic.
  • Spoon: For stirring and serving.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the aromatics: Start by mincing the garlic cloves and grating the fresh ginger. This fresh base will bring vibrant flavor to your sauce.
  2. Combine peanut butter and coconut milk: In your mixing bowl, add the natural peanut butter and coconut milk. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. This creates the rich, velvety texture that’s signature to satay sauce.
  3. Add soy sauce and sugar: Stir in the soy sauce and brown sugar or coconut sugar. The soy sauce adds saltiness while the sugar balances the flavor with a subtle sweetness.
  4. Incorporate lime juice and spices: Mix in fresh lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red chili flakes or sambal oelek. Adjust the chili to your preferred heat level. These ingredients give the sauce its characteristic tang and spice.
  5. Adjust consistency: If the sauce feels too thick, slowly add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking after each addition until you reach your desired consistency. The sauce should be pourable but still thick enough to cling to your food.
  6. Taste and tweak: Take a moment to taste your sauce. Add more lime juice for acidity, sugar for sweetness, or chili for heat as needed. Achieving the perfect balance is key.
  7. Garnish and serve: For an extra touch of texture and flavor, sprinkle crushed roasted peanuts on top before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For a soy-free version, substitute tamari with coconut aminos or skip altogether and add a pinch of salt.”

Here are some additional ideas to customize your Ayam Satay sauce:

  • Make it creamy: Add a tablespoon of smooth tahini or almond butter for a slightly different nutty flavor.
  • Boost the spice: Include fresh chopped red chilies or a dash of cayenne pepper if you love it hot.
  • Use other plant milks: If you prefer, substitute coconut milk with almond or cashew milk, but note it may alter the creaminess slightly.
  • Add herbs: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro or Thai basil pairs beautifully with the sauce.
  • Sweetener alternatives: Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Looking for more delicious plant-based sauces? Try our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to complement your meals.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving (approx. 2 tablespoons)
Calories 120 kcal
Protein 4 g
Fat 10 g
Carbohydrates 5 g
Fiber 1.5 g
Sugar 3 g
Sodium 250 mg

This nutrient profile makes the sauce a rich source of healthy fats and protein, thanks to the peanut butter, while keeping sugars moderate. Perfect for a balanced vegetarian diet.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Ayam Satay sauce is incredibly versatile. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy it:

  • Drizzle over grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant for a satisfying main dish.
  • Use as a dipping sauce for tofu or tempeh satay skewers, adding that classic satay flavor without meat.
  • Stir into noodle bowls or rice dishes to add depth and creaminess.
  • Spread on wraps or sandwiches for a nutty, spicy kick.
  • Serve alongside fresh spring rolls or vegetable fritters as a tasty dip.

For more creative vegetarian ideas, explore our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Conclusion

Creating your own vegetarian Ayam Satay sauce is a wonderful way to bring authentic Southeast Asian flavors into your kitchen while sticking to plant-based ingredients. This sauce is not only tasty but also flexible enough to complement a wide range of dishes, from grilled veggies to hearty tofu skewers.

Its creamy peanut base, combined with the zing of lime and the warmth of ginger and garlic, makes every bite a delightful experience.

Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or simply looking to add more diverse flavors into your meals, this recipe is a keeper. Plus, it encourages you to experiment and personalize your sauce according to your palate.

For more inspiration on plant-based cooking, don’t forget to check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious and Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves. Happy cooking and enjoy your flavorful journey!

📖 Recipe Card: Ayam Satay Sauce Vegetarian Recipe

Description: A rich and creamy vegetarian version of the classic Indonesian satay sauce, perfect for dipping or drizzling over grilled vegetables or tofu. Made with peanut butter, coconut milk, and aromatic spices for authentic flavor.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon chili paste (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
  • 1/4 cup water
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine peanut butter and coconut milk over medium heat.
  2. Stir continuously until smooth and heated through.
  3. Add soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and chili paste.
  4. Mix in ground coriander and turmeric powder.
  5. Add water to adjust consistency and stir well.
  6. Simmer on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Taste and add salt if needed.
  8. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 20 g | Carbs: 12 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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