This all-purpose condiment is a great way to add a splash of Thai flavour to a salad or vegetable dish. The secret to its exotic flavour is its perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty and spicy.

Yield: Makes about 3 cups

Ingredients

2 cups smooth peanut butter
4 limes, zest and juice
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon chili flakes or hot sauce
a large bunch mint
a handful or two peanuts

Procedure

Toss everything into your food processor or blender, then purée until almost smooth, leaving the peanuts a touch chunky. Some blenders are stronger than others; if yours needs a little help, add a splash of water to help it purée to a thick peanut butter consistency.

Variation

If you like the strong flavour of fresh cilantro, use it to replace some or all of the mint. For even more authentic Thai flavour, add a splash of Thai fish sauce.