17 Easy Sauces You Must Try
Sauces can transform any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. They add flavor, moisture, and a touch of excitement to your dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 17 easy sauces you can make at home. From creamy to tangy, there’s something for everyone!
Why Make This Recipe
Making your own sauces is simple and rewarding. You can use fresh ingredients, control the flavors, and adjust everything to your taste. Homemade sauces are healthier and often cheaper than store-bought options. Plus, they can elevate a basic meal into a gourmet experience.
How to Make Classic Tomato Sauce
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and sugar. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, mix in fresh basil before serving.
How to Serve Classic Tomato Sauce
You can serve tomato sauce over pasta, use it as a pizza base, or dip breadsticks in it. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
How to Store Classic Tomato Sauce
Let the sauce cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Classic Tomato Sauce
- Use ripe, fresh tomatoes for the best flavor.
- Adjust the sugar based on the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you like spicy food.
Variation
Try adding other vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. You can also mix in different herbs for a unique taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just peel, chop, and cook them down until soft.
Q: Can I make this sauce vegan?
A: Absolutely! This tomato sauce is naturally vegan. Just ensure to use vegan ingredients if you choose to add extras.
Q: How can I thicken the sauce?
A: You can simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or add a bit of tomato paste to thicken it up.
This is just one of the easy sauces you can make. Stay tuned for more delicious options to try in your kitchen!
Classic Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil, chopped (optional) Add for extra flavor
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add diced tomatoes and sugar. Mix well.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, mix in fresh basil before serving.
