Almond butter has become increasingly popular in recent years as a plant-based, nutrient-dense alternative to peanut butter. Made from blanched, roasted almonds, almond butter offers a slightly sweeter, more delicate flavor than its peanut counterpart. It provides a good source of protein, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.
Whipping up a simple almond butter sauce opens up possibilities when it comes to meal prep and easy dinner ideas. Bold flavors like ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and rice vinegar give this sauce an addictive sweet, salty, and savory flavor profile. The addition of coconut milk makes it creamy.
This versatile sauce can transform basic ingredients like chicken, shrimp, tofu, or vegetables into restaurant-worthy bowls and wraps in under 30 minutes. It also stores well, making it a perfect choice for easy weeknight dinners when you're short on time.
How to Make Almond Butter Sauce
Making almond butter sauce at home is simple. With just 7-10 ingredients, you likely have everything you need in your pantry already.
Here is an overview of what you'll need:
- Almond butter - use unsweetened and unsalted for best flavor
- Coconut milk - full fat works best for creaminess
- Soy sauce or tamari for saltiness
- Rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar for acidity
- Maple syrup or honey for sweetness
- Ginger - freshly grated or minced for spice
- Garlic - minced or grated
- Chili-garlic sauce or sriracha for heat (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl: Whisk to combine almond butter, coconut milk, soy sauce, vinegar, sweetener, ginger, garlic, and chili-garlic sauce.
- Add water to thin (if needed): If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in water 1 teaspoon at a time until the desired consistency is reached.
- Let flavors meld (optional): For best flavor, allow sauce to sit for 10-15 minutes before using. This allows time for flavors to develop.
And just like that, you have a creamy, drool-worthy almond butter sauce ready to transform your next meal! The sauce keeps well refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about almond butter sauce is how versatile it is. Feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your tastes and dietary needs:
- Use creamy or crunchy almond butter
- Substitute peanut butter or sunflower seed butter
- Use tamari for a gluten-free sauce
- Skip chili-garlic sauce for a milder version
- Add more ginger and garlic for extra spice
- Swap vinegar like rice wine, apple cider or white
- Switch out maple syrup for honey or agave nectar
You can also change up the thickness depending on how you plan to use it:
- Thin sauce with more water for dressing salads or drizzling
- Keep it thick as a dipping sauce or spread
Feel free to experiment and make this versatile almond butter sauce your own!
How to Use Almond Butter Sauce
Now comes the best part - using your homemade almond butter sauce! This sauce is endlessly adaptable and can transform basic ingredients into crave-worthy meals.
Here are just a few ideas for how to enjoy almond butter sauce at home:
As a Protein Topper or Dip
Drizzle almond butter sauce over simply grilled or baked:
- Chicken
- Shrimp
- Salmon
- Tofu
Or use it as a dip for grilled veggies or lettuce wraps. The sauce beautifully complements and enhances the flavor of proteins.
In Noodle Bowls
Toss almond butter sauce with noodles and sautéed or raw vegetables like:
- Zucchini
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
- Cabbage
- Bean sprouts
Top with toasted sesame seeds for added crunch. It makes an easy weeknight meal.
In Leafy Wraps
Smear some almond butter sauce inside:
- Lettuce leaves
- Collard wraps
- Rice paper sheets
Fill with roasted veggies, fresh herbs, and protein for a hand-held low-carb meal.
As a Vegetable Topping
Drizzle almond butter sauce over roasted or sautéed veggies like:
- Cauliflower
- Brussels sprouts
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
The sauce adds a lovely savory, sweet flavor contrast.
In Mason Jar Salads
Incorporate almond butter sauce into meal-prepped mason jar salads:
- Layer sauce, sliced veggies, and protein in a jar
- Shake or stir to combine right before eating
- Enjoy a quick, healthy lunch or dinner
The sauce acts as both a dressing and flavor boost.
As a Sandwich or Wrap Spread
Slather some almond butter sauce on a:
- Sandwich
- Wrap
- Pita
- Bun
It adds flavor dimension to both veg and non-veg sandwich fillings.
As you can see, the possibilities are truly endless with this easy homemade sauce! It's sure to become a staple in your home cooking.
Recipe Adaptations
If you want to change up the flavor profile of this versatile sauce, try one of these adaptations:
Thai Peanut Sauce
Substitute peanut butter for the almond butter. Add lime juice and a dash of red curry paste for Thai flair.
Curry Almond Sauce
Add a teaspoon of curry powder and a splash of coconut milk for an Indian-style curry sauce.
Chipotle Almond Sauce
Add 1-2 teaspoons smoked chipotle peppers and adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy Mexican twist.
Orange Almond Sauce
Add orange zest and juice for a citrus kick. Delicious with chicken or shrimp.
The possibilities are endless when remixing this basic almond butter sauce recipe!
FAQs
Is almond butter sauce gluten-free?
Yes! By using tamari instead of soy sauce, you can make this sauce 100% gluten-free.
Can you use almond butter sauce on pasta?
Absolutely. Toss some hot pasta with almond butter sauce for a quick, tasty meal. Add sautéed veggies for a complete dish.
How long does almond butter sauce last?
Store refrigerated in an airtight container, almond butter sauce will keep for 5-7 days.
Can almond butter sauce be frozen?
Yes, it freezes well for 1-2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using. Add water to thin out if needed.
What's a good sauce substitute for almond butter?
You can swap in peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or cashew butter if you don't have almond butter. The flavor will vary slightly.
Can I use olive oil instead of sesame oil?
You can, but sesame oil adds a great nutty flavor. Use a light hand with olive oil, as the flavor can overpower.
I hope these tips help you feel confident making this versatile almond butter sauce at home!
Conclusion
Whipping up a batch of easy almond butter sauce is a great way to take your home cooking to the next level.
This protein-packed, plant-based sauce adds a savory-sweet flavor punch and creamy texture to everything it touches. From hearty grain bowls to lettuce wrap tacos, the possibilities are endless.
Crave-Worthy Almond Butter Sauce
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 3 tbsp coconut milk
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp ginger, finely grated
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp chili garlic sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Whisk together all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Add water 1 teaspoon at a time if needed to thin sauce to desired consistency.
- Allow flavors to meld for 10-15 minutes before serving for best results.
- Store leftover sauce refrigerated for up to 1 week.