Spicy Peanut Sauce

Spicy Peanut Sauce
I posted this as part of a recipe, then realized that it would be good to include it as a stand-alone. After all, Spicy Peanut Sauce can be used in a variety of dishes like stir frys, noodles, chicken wings, lettuce wraps, etc. Spicy Peanut Sauce rocks.

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 scallions, chopped fine
1 garlic clove, chopped fine
1 tablespoon finely grated peeled fresh ginger root
1 cup coconut milk
1/2 cup creamy or chunky peanut butter (I used creamy JIF)
1/4 cup soy sauce
zest and juice of 1/2 lime (may increase this to taste)
3 tablespoons firmly packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes
Sriracha chili sauce (to taste)

In a saucepan heat oil over moderate heat until hot but not smoking and cook scallions, garlic and ginger, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer, stirring. Simmer sauce, stirring, until smooth and cool to room temperature. Sauce may be made up to 3 days ahead and chilled, covered. If sauce is too thick after chilling, stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons hot water until sauce reaches desired consistency.