7 saucet recipes

Stuff thick-cut French bread with cinnamon cream cheese, soak in custard, then bake until golden and top with Grand Marnier strawberry sauce for an indulgent brunch showstopper.

Homemade chili sauce for canning with ripe tomatoes, sweet and hot peppers, pickling spices, and vinegar reduced by half. A classic preserved condiment processed in a boiling water bath.

Cajun barbecue sauce with bacon, pecans, honey, and citrus blended smooth. A spicy-sweet sauce with three peppers, orange rind, and Tabasco for chicken, pork, or ribs.

Cajun-style barbecue sauce simmered low with onions, sweet red bell peppers, white wine, honey, and a hint of dried mint. A from-scratch sauce with serious depth and Louisiana character.

Asian peanut sauce with peanut butter, soy sauce, chili oil, garlic, and brewed tea for a smooth base. A spicy, savory dipping sauce for noodles, spring rolls, and satay.

Light linguine with white clam sauce made with canned clams simmered in their own briny liquid with onion, parsley, and Parmesan. A low-fat Italian pasta that lets the clean ocean flavor of the clams shine through.

Bread pudding loaded with pecans, raisins, and chopped apple, baked in a spiced custard and drowned in a rich bourbon butter sauce. A classic New Orleans-style dessert.