Easy Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a fresh, vibrant dish bursting with flavor and healthy ingredients, you’re in for a treat with this Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce recipe. This classic salad brings together crisp vegetables, boiled eggs, and a rich, creamy peanut dressing that’s simply irresistible. Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce is a perfect balance of textures and tastes, offering a wholesome meal that’s as colorful as it is delicious. Whether you want a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying and nutritious plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with a variety of vegetables, this dish is naturally full of vitamins and minerals.
• Versatile and Customizable: Easily tailored based on whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.
• Bold Flavors: The peanut sauce brings a perfect combination of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.
• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or casual meals.
• Great for Sharing: A colorful and hearty dish your friends and family will love at any gathering.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All the ingredients for Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce are simple staples that each add something special—whether it’s crunch, creaminess, or a burst of flavor. Having fresh vegetables paired with the peanut sauce results in an irresistible harmony.

• Fresh vegetables: Cabbage, green beans, and bean sprouts add a crisp, refreshing texture.
• Boiled eggs: They provide rich creaminess and protein to balance the salad.
• Potatoes: Cooked and diced for an earthy, filling element.
• Peanut butter: The base for the delicious peanut sauce, choose natural for the best taste.
• Coconut milk: Adds creaminess and depth to the peanut sauce.
• Tamarind paste or lime juice: For tanginess that brightens up the sauce.
• Garlic and chili: These spices give the sauce a gentle kick and aromatic flair.
• Soy sauce and palm sugar: Balance the flavors with a hint of salty sweetness.
• Fried shallots: Optional but highly recommended for a crunchy, fragrant topping.

Variations for Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

This dish is incredibly flexible, so feel free to personalize it. Whether you’re vegetarian, avoiding certain ingredients, or just want a twist on tradition, it’s easy to make adjustments that still deliver amazing taste.

• Protein options: Swap boiled eggs for tofu, tempeh, or grilled chicken to suit your preference.
• Vegetable swaps: Use spinach, kale, or shredded carrots if you want different veggies.
• Sauce variations: Add a splash of soy or fish sauce for extra umami.
• Spice level: Adjust the chili amount or use sweet chili sauce for a milder version.
• Nut alternatives: Use almond or cashew butter if peanut allergies exist, although the flavor will vary.

How to Make Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. Boil the potatoes and green beans until tender but still crisp, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking and preserve their vibrant color. Blanch cabbage briefly and rinse bean sprouts thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

Boil the eggs until they are hard-boiled, about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, cool and peel them. Slice or quarter the eggs for serving.

Step 3: Make the Peanut Sauce

In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, coconut milk, tamarind paste or lime juice, garlic, chili, soy sauce, and palm sugar. Blend until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little warm water to reach the perfect pouring consistency.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

On a large plate or bowl, arrange all the vegetables, potatoes, and eggs. Drizzle the peanut sauce generously over the top and sprinkle with fried shallots for a delightful crunch.

Pro Tips for Making Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

• Choose fresh veggies: Crisp, fresh vegetables make all the difference in texture and flavor.
• Balance the sauce: Taste and adjust the peanut sauce as you go to find your perfect mix of sweet, salty, and tangy.
• Prep ahead: Cook vegetables and make sauce in advance to save time before serving.
• Add crunch: Fried shallots or crushed crackers elevate the dish with delightful texture contrasts.
• Serve chilled or room temperature: Both work beautifully depending on your preference and weather.

How to Serve Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

Sprinkle chopped fresh coriander or chopped scallions on top to add a fresh, herbal smell and a pop of green color. Fried shallots not only add crunch but also a savory depth that complements the peanut sauce perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve Indonesian Gado Gado with steamed jasmine rice or simple fried rice for a more filling meal. Lightly toasted prawn crackers provide a fun, crunchy side that also absorbs the peanut sauce beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange the components separated on a platter with the sauce on the side to let everyone build their own perfect bites. For a modern twist, serve in individual glass bowls layered with veggies and topped with sauce for an eye-catching presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce components separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The peanut sauce can thicken, so stir in a bit of warm water before serving again.

Freezing

This recipe isn’t ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables become soggy when thawed. However, you can freeze the peanut sauce separately in an airtight container for up to 1 month.

Reheating

Reheat cooked potatoes and green beans gently in warm water or a microwave. Serve the vegetables and eggs chilled or at room temperature, then pour on the peanut sauce freshly stirred with a little water to loosen it.

FAQs

What is Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce?

It is a traditional Indonesian salad made of mixed boiled and raw vegetables, boiled eggs, and a rich peanut sauce dressing that combines sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely. Simply replace boiled eggs with tofu or tempeh, ensure the peanut sauce has no fish sauce, and use plant-based ingredients throughout.

How long does Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce last in the fridge?

When stored properly, it will keep well for up to two days, but for best texture and taste, consume it fresh or within 24 hours.

What can I substitute for tamarind paste?

If tamarind is unavailable, lime juice or lemon juice makes a great substitute that still adds a fresh tang to the sauce.

Is the peanut sauce spicy?

The sauce has a gentle heat from fresh chili that can be adjusted according to your preference, so feel free to add less or more chili to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Indonesian Gado Gado with Peanut Sauce is truly a celebration of fresh flavors and wholesome ingredients that come together effortlessly. This recipe is an invitation to enjoy a vibrant, satisfying, and healthy meal that’s bursting with textures and bright tastes. Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or experiment with your own twists, this dish promises a delicious experience you’ll want to make again and again.

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