Satay Peanut Sauce/Naam Jim Satay

Ingredients

• 1 quart (820 grams) canola oil, for frying
• 1 1/2 cups (336 grams) skinless peanuts
• 1/8 cup (18 grams) red curry paste
• 1 3/4 cups (455 grams) unsweetened coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon (11 grams) kosher salt, plus more as needed
• 1/2 cup (120 grams) water
• 1 1/2 cups (180 grams) dark brown sugar

Steps

1. Heat the oil in a wok or heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. When the oil registers 350°F on a deep-fry thermometer, carefully lower in the peanuts and fry until they turn a rich caramel brown. Remove with a strainer and transfer to paper towels to drain and cool.
2. Transfer the cooled peanuts to a mortar and lightly crush them with a pestle to a coarse texture; set aside. Combine the red curry paste and 1/4 cup (65 grams) of the coconut milk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the oil separates and the mixture becomes fragrant—be careful not to let it scorch. Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups (325 grams) coconut milk, the measured salt, water, brown sugar, and crushed peanuts. Bring to a boil, then turn off the heat and let the mixture stand for 45 minutes to 1 hour to cool and allow the peanuts to hydrate.
3. Transfer to a blender and puree until the sauce is smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt as needed.