So many classic food combinations include a perfect sauce complement such as pasta with marinara sauce, tacos or tortila chips and pico de gallo, ribs and barbeque sauce. Sauces can enhance any dish and make them even more delectable. Here are some of the most popular sauces you can easily make at home:
1. Basic tomato sauce
This sauce is a staple in any American household. Tomato sauce can be used in pasta dishes, on top of pizza, and as a dip for snacks like mozzarella sticks. To make basic tomato sauce you need to add crushed tomatoes to olive oil and garlic and let it simmer over heat. After that, add some seasoning and it’s all set.
2. Chimichurri sauce
This sauce is an Argentinian sauce and can be used for many dishes. Chimichurri is usually served with steaks but it can also be drizzled over eggs and pasta salads. In order to make it, you need to throw parsley, oregano, garlic, onion, and olive oil, into a blender. It’s extremely easy and quick to make.
3. Barbecue sauce
This sauce is super versatile and can be used for many things. However, it’s mostly used for grilled foods like chicken, ribs, and even steaks. In order to make the sauce you’ll need tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and some spices like pepper and garlic. Mix it all together, and if you like a sweeter sauce, go a little bit heavier on the honey. When making barbecue, some people may opt for a hot sauce set, or a Carolina Mustard sauce. Heinz makes a great version of their Heinz Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce which is made with yellow mustard and gives a tangier, creamier take on a typical bbq sauce.
4. Peanut dipping sauce
Peanut sauce is a great sauce for things like spring rolls, fresh vegetables, various meats and tofu. In order to make it, you need creamy peanut butter, rice vinegar, reduced-sodium soy sauce, honey, teaspoon ground ginger, 1 to 2 medium cloves of garlic, red pepper flakes and 2 to 4 tablespoons water or coconut milk, depending on preference.
5. Bearnaise sauce
Bearnaise sauce is a popular sauce used to top things like steak, check, and fish. It’s also commonly found on eggs. To make this sauce you need egg yolks, butter, white wine, vinegar, shallots, and tarragon. You need to combine the vinegar, white wine, and shallots in a pan over heat. Place the mixture into a blender with egg yolks, pepper, garlic, and tarragon leaves until you reach a sauce consistency.
6. Salsa
Salsa is super common among American households. It can be used as a dip for tortilla chips, as well as a topping for tacos, burritos, and quesadillas. To make it, put tomatoes, diced onions, garlic, cilantro, salt, and pepper, into a food processor until your desired consistency. Season with some lime when complete.
7. Chili pepper sauce
This sauce is used commonly with many finger foods like chicken wings, spring rolls, and egg rolls. In order to make this you need to chop up cayenne peppers and garlic cloves and add them to a pot with vinegar and salt. Simmer the mixture and add to a food processor after to reach desired consistency.