good-and-cheap

PeanutSaucem a k e s o n e c u p$ 3 t o t a l$ 3 / c u p1 jalapeño or other chili, finely chopped(or 2 tbsp chili paste)3 cloves garlic1 shallot (or equivalent of any onion)cooking oil1 tsp turmeric (optional)½ to 1 cup coconut milk½ cup sugarless peanut butter1 tbsp soy sauce1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)½ tsp sesame oilFinely chop the pepper, garlic,and shallot, or use a foodprocessor to make them intoa paste. (If you’re using chilipaste instead of a fresh pepper,hold off on it for now.)FlavorSplash some oil in a saucepanon medium heat. Once it’swarm, add the chili, garlic,and shallot and sauté untileverything’s translucent. Addthe turmeric, coconut milk, andchili paste if applicable.160If you have a great sauce or a few spicesin your kitchen, you’ll never have totolerate bland food. Most of these recipesrequire surprisingly little effort andtime, pack a ton of flavor, and can bestored for use in any dish you choose.Let it come to a boil, then turnthe heat down. Add the peanutbutter and soy sauce and stir tocombine. Once it’s all combined,taste it and add whatever youthink it needs—but think aboutthe salt and spice in particular.f l161a v o r161