Name: Bold Nutty and Spicy Vegan Dragon Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1/2 cup tahini (or almond, cashew, or peanut butter as alternatives); 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (use tamari for gluten-free); 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder); 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup (can substitute agave nectar or date syrup); 2 tablespoons lemon juice or rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger (optional); 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes or hot sauce (adjust to taste); 1/4 to 1/2 cup water (to adjust consistency); 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (for a cheesy umami boost); 1 teaspoon miso paste (for deeper flavor)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

Dragon Sauce is a bold, creamy, and versatile vegan sauce that perfectly balances savory, nutty, sweet, and tangy flavors. Its rich texture and spicy kick make it an irresistible addition to bowls, wraps, roasted veggies, and more. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a kitchen staple for anyone looking to elevate everyday meals.

A small white bowl filled with a dark reddish-brown sauce that is oily and glossy. The sauce has tiny red chili flakes, green herbs, and small light yellow sesame seeds spread evenly throughout. A wooden spoon is resting inside the bowl, holding some of the sauce, showing the texture and colors clearly. The bowl is placed on a wooden surface but for the description, imagine it on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 tablespoons tahini or nut butter (almond, cashew, or peanut butter)
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
1 clove garlic, minced (or ¼ teaspoon garlic powder)
1 tablespoon maple syrup (or agave nectar, date syrup)
1 tablespoon lemon juice or rice vinegar
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional)
¼ to ½ teaspoon chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce (adjust to taste)
Water, to thin as needed
Optional: 1 teaspoon nutritional yeast or miso paste for extra umami

Instructions

Step 1: Add the tahini or nut butter, soy sauce or tamari, garlic, maple syrup, lemon juice or rice vinegar, ginger (if using), and chili flakes or hot sauce into a blender or food processor.
Step 2: Blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add water a tablespoon at a time to reach your preferred consistency.
Step 3: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning by adding more sweetener, acidity, or spice if needed.
Step 4: Transfer to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate until ready to use.

Tips & Variations

Add chili oil or extra chili flakes for a spicier version.
For a Thai-inspired twist, substitute lime juice and add coconut milk.
Make it nut-free by using sunflower seed butter or white bean puree instead of tahini or nut butter.
Sweeten it more with additional maple syrup if you prefer a sweeter sauce.
Try mixing in smoked paprika or cumin for a unique flavor profile.

Storage

Store Dragon Sauce in an airtight glass jar or container in the refrigerator for up to 7 days. It may thicken over time; simply stir in a splash of water or lemon juice to thin it before serving. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in ice cube trays, then transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer-safe bag. Use frozen portions to quickly add flavor to meals on busy days.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a dark reddish-brown sauce that has bright red chili flakes, yellow seeds, and chopped green herbs floating on the surface. Inside the bowl, there is a wooden spoon resting diagonally with some of the sauce on it, showing the texture and colors clearly. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, with soft lighting highlighting the shine on the sauce and the wood grain of the spoon. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

What does Dragon Sauce taste like?

Dragon Sauce offers a bold blend of nutty, savory, and slightly sweet flavors with a pleasant hint of spice. Imagine creamy tahini combined with savory soy sauce and aromatic garlic for a rich and addictive taste.

Is Dragon Sauce spicy?

The heat level depends on how much chili flakes or hot sauce you add. It can be made mild or given a fiery kick to suit your preference.

Can I make it nut-free?

Yes! Replace the tahini or nut butter with sunflower seed butter or white bean puree to make a nut-free and allergy-friendly version.

Is Dragon Sauce keto-friendly?

Yes, with some adjustments. Use a low-carb sweetener like monk fruit instead of maple syrup, and choose a low-carb nut butter, such as almond butter.

Why is it called “Dragon” Sauce?

The name likely reflects its fiery flavor and mythical deliciousness. It’s also commonly served on “dragon bowls,” which are hearty vegan bowls topped with this signature sauce.