In today's blog post, we're diving into the delicious world of sauces with Mary McDougal's top recipes. Whether you're looking to enhance a main dish, create an impressive appetizer, or just want to explore the art of sauce-making, these easy and delicious recipes will be your new go-to. From classic flavors to innovative twists, Mary's sauce recipes promise to bring a burst of flavor to any meal.
The Magic of Marinara
Mary McDougal’s Marinara sauce is the foundation of Italian cuisine, simple yet packed with robust flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 can (28 oz) of whole peeled tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of sugar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
To make this marinara sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté until golden.
- Crush the canned tomatoes with your hands or blend them briefly for a chunkier texture and add to the pot.
- Stir in oregano and sugar, allowing the sauce to simmer for about 20-30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust salt, then remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil.
💡 Note: For a richer flavor, you can include a splash of red wine or even a rind of parmesan cheese to simmer in the sauce.
Sriracha Mayo: The Condiment King
Mary’s Sriracha Mayo is versatile, zesty, and perfect for burgers, fries, or as a dip. Here’s the recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mayonnaise | 1 cup |
| Sriracha sauce | 2-3 tablespoons (to taste) |
| Lime juice | 1 teaspoon |
| Honey | 1 teaspoon |
| Soy sauce | A few drops |
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Whisk until smooth.
- Adjust the Sriracha amount for desired heat level.
🔥 Note: Store the Sriracha Mayo in the refrigerator, where it can last up to a week. The flavors will also develop over time, making it even better the next day.
Peanut Sauce
With its roots in Southeast Asian cuisine, Mary’s Peanut Sauce can elevate anything from satay skewers to vegetable platters. Here’s how you can whip up this creamy, delicious sauce:
- 1⁄2 cup of creamy peanut butter
- 1⁄4 cup of coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of ginger, grated
- Chili flakes to taste
To make the sauce:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Add water or more coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency.
Mary's Peanut Sauce is not just about the flavors but also about the balance of textures and sweetness. Adjust the amounts of soy sauce or lime juice to find your perfect blend.
Caesar Dressing
A classic Caesar Dressing is versatile for salads, wraps, or as a spread. Here’s Mary’s take:
- 1⁄2 cup of olive oil
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove of garlic, crushed
- 1⁄2 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1⁄4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
Steps to make:
- Combine lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, mustard, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Gradually whisk in olive oil to emulsify.
- Add cheese, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
💡 Note: Mary's trick for an authentic Caesar flavor? A splash of anchovy paste or finely chopped anchovies if you're a fan of the fishy undertones.
In wrapping up, Mary McDougal's sauce recipes illustrate how simple ingredients can be transformed into culinary delights. From a basic Marinara to a fiery Sriracha Mayo, these sauces showcase the power of fresh ingredients and the beauty of balancing flavors. Each sauce, with its unique profile, offers a way to elevate everyday meals into something special. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these recipes provide the perfect foundation for culinary exploration and the joy of cooking.
Can I make these sauces in advance?
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Yes, most of these sauces can be prepared ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Marinara sauce can last up to a week, while Sriracha Mayo and Caesar Dressing can be kept for about 5 days. Peanut Sauce should be used within 3 days for the best flavor.
What are the best uses for these sauces?
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Here are some suggestions:
- Marinara Sauce: Perfect for pasta, lasagna, as a pizza base, or a dip for garlic bread.
- Sriracha Mayo: Great for burgers, sandwiches, fries, sushi rolls, or as a dip for vegetables and chips.
- Peanut Sauce: Ideal for satay skewers, as a dipping sauce, or drizzled over stir-fries, salads, or noodles.
- Caesar Dressing: Excellent for Caesar salads, but also good as a marinade for chicken, spread for wraps, or a dipping sauce for crudites.
Can I adjust the spice level in these recipes?
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Absolutely. For all sauces, especially the Sriracha Mayo and Peanut Sauce, you can adjust the spice by adding or reducing the amount of Sriracha or chili flakes. Remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s harder to take away heat if you’ve made it too spicy.
