Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Salsa de Cacahuate is a bold, nutty, and slightly spicy Mexican peanut sauce that adds depth and richness to any dish. With roasted peanuts, dried chiles, tomatoes, and garlic, this salsa has a complex flavor that’s earthy, smoky, and utterly addictive. It’s perfect for tacos, grilled meats, veggies, or simply as a dip.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

roasted peanutsdried chiles (like guajillo, pasilla, or árbol)tomatoegarliconionvegetable oilwater or brothSalt to taste

directions

Salsa de Cacahuate 10 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Remove stems and seeds from the dried chiles.

Heat a skillet over medium heat and toast the chiles lightly for a few seconds on each side until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.

In the same skillet, sauté garlic, onion, and tomatoes until softened and lightly charred.

Transfer toasted chiles to a bowl and cover with hot water. Soak for 10–15 minutes until softened.

In a blender, combine soaked chiles, sautéed vegetables, roasted peanuts, and a bit of soaking liquid or broth.

Blend until smooth, adding more liquid as needed to reach desired consistency.

Heat a little oil in a pan and pour in the blended salsa. Simmer for 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season with salt to taste.

Serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 1.5 cups of salsa.Preparation time: 10 minutesCooking time: 15–20 minutesTotal time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

Add a chipotle pepper for smoky heat.

Use almonds or cashews for a different nutty flavor.

Add a splash of vinegar or lime juice for brightness.

Make it creamy with a touch of crema or coconut milk.

Add a bit of piloncillo or brown sugar for sweetness.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.Reheat gently on the stove or serve cold, depending on the dish.Can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw in the fridge before use.

FAQs

Is this salsa spicy?

It can be! Adjust the number and type of chiles to your spice preference.

Can I use peanut butter instead of whole peanuts?

Yes, use natural peanut butter without sugar for a similar effect.

What dishes pair well with this salsa?

Tacos, grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, rice bowls, and even noodles.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, just ensure all ingredients (especially broth) are gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead?

Absolutely! The flavor deepens after a day or two in the fridge.

How thick should it be?

It should be smooth and pourable, like a creamy sauce—not too runny or too thick.

Conclusion

Salsa de Cacahuate is a flavorful and versatile addition to your salsa repertoire. Its rich, nutty flavor and mild heat make it a standout accompaniment for countless dishes. Whether you’re looking to spice up your tacos or add depth to grilled meats, this sauce brings warmth, character, and a unique Mexican flair to your table.