Ingredients

• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 3 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 3/4 cup water

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan cook garlic and red pepper flakes in oil over moderate heat, stirring, until garlic is golden. Whisk in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil, whisking. Simmer sauce, whisking, until thickened, about 1 minute. Sauce may be made 3 days ahead and chilled, covered.
2. Serve sauce warm or at room temperature.