Peanut butter is so simple, yet so versatile.  It is extremely satisfying on its own because of its perfect balance of fat, protein, and a touch of salt.   Growing up, one of my favorite pregame breakfasts was banana, peanut butter, and maple syrup on waffles.  I was never a child that was obsessed with peanut butter and jelly, but I did occasionally enjoy the combination of peanut butter and honey sandwiches that my Dad would make.  As an adult, I have discovered the joys of peanut butter with all manner of savory foods.

Peanut butter pairs especially well with chicken.  This thai peanut dip/condiment pairs perfectly with my Paleo Chicken Meatballs, but could be a dipping sauce for veggies or simple Paleo Chicken Fingers as well.  It can also be used to make a Paleo Roll-Up snack more interesting by putting some with spinach inside a few slices of Boar’s Head Blazing Buffalo Chicken Breast.

While peanut butter is not Paleo, I don’t eat enough of it to consider it a problem area of my diet.  There are just some foods that pair better with peanut butter than almond butter.  Not all peanut butters are created equal, however.  If people stopped for a minute to look at the label, choosy Mom’s would not in fact choose JIF.  I prefer Smucker’s Natural because it is made entirely of peanuts with a touch of sea salt.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (crunchy or smooth)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 tsp dried ginger
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tbs coconut aminos or low sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbs fresh lime juice
• optional: sriracha chili sauce

Instructions

• 1. In a small pot, add all of the ingredients (except for the sriracha)
• 2. Heat on low/medium-low, whisking until all ingredients have incorporated
• 3. Turn off heat and serve with a drizzle of sriracha if you want a little extra heat
• 4. Enjoy!