Thai Peanut Sauce (1.5 quarts)

(based on Real Thai by Nancie McDermott)
(modified by Faith Morrison 9/13/04)

 

1 can (14.5 oz) coconut milk
1 can (4 oz) Thai red curry paste (6 Tablespoons)
1 ½ C chunky peanut butter
1 can (14 oz) chicken or vegetable stock
¼ C brown sugar (optional)
6 Tablespoons Tamarind liquid
3 Tablespoons fish sauce (omit for vegetarian option)
½ teaspoon salt

Warm the coconut milk in a medium sauce pan over medium heat.  Stirring <>occasionally, heat the milk until it reaches a gentle boil and tiny beads of oil glisten on the surface, <>about 5 minutes. Add the curry paste and stir occasionally until it dissolves into the coconut milk <>and releases its fragrance, about 3 minutes.  Add the peanut butter, soup stock, and sugar and cook gently until sauce is smooth, about 5 minutes.  Remove from heat and season with tamarind, (fish sauce), and salt.  Serve hot or room temperature over fried tofu, stir-fried chicken or as a dip.<>




Faith Morrison