Indonesian Peanut Dressing for a Simple Lettuce Salad

Indonesian cuisine is known for bold flavors and plenty of spices. This dressing, inspired by gado-gado, a traditional Indonesian salad, is designed to elevate almost any salad, especially a simple one made with just a few ingredients, such as lettuce.

It is a rich peanut dressing with strong flavors of garlic and spices, and it takes only a few minutes to prepare.

Ingredients

For the salad

• 2 heads of romaine or Caesar lettuce, checked for insects and washed

• 2–3 tablespoons roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped

• 1–2 tablespoons crispy fried onions, optional

• A small amount of fresh chopped cilantro

For the peanut dressing

• ¾ cup smooth peanut butter

• 1 cup (240 ml) coconut cream

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice

• ¼ teaspoon crushed chili flakes, or to taste

• 3–4 tablespoons hot water, depending on the desired consistency

Instructions

1. Tear the lettuce leaves into medium-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. Be sure to dry the leaves thoroughly so the dressing will cling to them rather than become watery.

2. In a bowl, combine the peanut butter, coconut cream, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and lemon juice. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the hot water until the dressing reaches a pourable consistency.

3. Pour the dressing over the lettuce just before serving. Sprinkle with the chopped peanuts and crispy fried onions, and add cilantro if desired. Serve immediately.

Important note: Do not toss the salad with the dressing too far in advance. The dressing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. If it thickens while chilled, stir in a little warm water before pouring it over the salad.