Top Easy Sauces to Make at Home: A Guide for Home Cooks
Choosing the right sauce can truly elevate your dish. While some sauces demand hours of preparation, there are many that are quick and easy to make. This guide will help you discover the best and easiest sauces to whip up, whether you want a quick fix from a packet or a homemade masterpiece. Let's dive in!
Quick and Easy Sauces: Options for Busy Cooks
When time is of the essence, a quick and easy sauce can be a lifesaver. While some sauces take hours to make, others like roast turkey gravy which requires hours of simmering, are not for those in a hurry. If you're willing to invest some time, however, the results can be overwhelmingly delicious. However, for those in a rush, a can or packet of instant sauce is an easy option. Though they may not be as flavorful or complex as homemade sauces, they do offer a worthy alternative when you need a quick fix.
The Best Quick Sauces for Rushed Nights
If you're short on time, buying and decanting a pre-made sauce can save the day. Some of the better instant sauces, like the Knorr 3 Pepper Sauce, offer a taste that's quite commendable—though availability varies. Alternatively, you can skip the pre-made options altogether and learn to make your own, which can be an equally satisfying experience.
Easiest Sauces to Make at Home
For true ease, there's no need to complicate matters. Meat flavored sauces, or gravies, are incredibly simple to create. All you need to do is add water to the pan drippings and voilà! You have a sauce ready to be savored. Another easy option is to simmer vegetables in extra cream for a quick and creamy sauce. The key is to use the ingredients you have on hand and let your creativity do the rest.
Essential Sauces for Home Cooks
Once you master the basics, there's no limit to the number of sauce variations you can invent. Here are a few recipes to get you started:
Béchamel Sauce
A béchamel sauce is a foundation for many other sauces and can be used in a variety of dishes from classic Italian cannelloni to a simple drizzle over roasted carrots and parsnips. The recipe is simple: combine flour, butter, and milk to create a thick, creamy sauce. This versatile sauce is perfect for elevating any dish or as a base for other sauces.
BBQ Sauce
BBQ sauce is a testament to the versatility of condiments. Originating in the American South, this sauce has spread across the country, with each region boasting its own unique recipe. Whether you're serving it with ribs or fried tofu, the BBQ sauce can be jazzed up with various additives like rum. Enjoy its smoky flavor with your next barbecue spread!
Rémoulade
A rémoulade is a delightful mayonnaise-based sauce, perfect for dipping with meat, fries, or seafood. The Louisiana version adds a vibrant mix of cornichons, mustard, and hot sauce, offering a fresh and lively flavor. It's a fantastic addition to a shrimp po boy or any other savory dish.
Chimichurri
Chimichurri is a classic Argentinian sauce made with oregano, vinegar, and heaps of parsley. It's a bright and fresh alternative to more traditional sauces. Pair it with tira de asado or spicy chorípan for a burst of flavor!
Chermoula
Chermoula is a Moroccan creation featuring cilantro and saffron, traditionally used for marinating fish. However, its versatility extends to many other dishes, making it a culinary treasure. It complements both fish and Moroccan potato cakes, offering a blend of flavors that are simply divine.
Conclusion
With a little creativity and some basic techniques, you can make a variety of sauces that will enhance your cooking. Whether you're making béchamel for a classic casserole, BBQ sauce for a juicy rack of ribs, or a chermoula for some Moroccan-inspired dishes, there's no shortage of options. Don't be afraid to experiment and create your own unique flavors!