Cooking sauces from scratch is one of the best ways to make flavorful and healthy meals at home. When you make your own sauces, you control exactly what goes into them and can avoid excess sugar, salt, and preservatives often found in store-bought versions. Homemade sauces also tend to taste fresher and more vibrant. Here are some tips for making delicious sauces in your own kitchen.

The first step is to gather high-quality ingredients. For most sauces, you’ll want ingredients like olive oil, garlic, shallots or onions, fresh or dried herbs, and spices. You may also use broth or wine to add more flavor. Choose produce that is in season for the most flavor.

Next, decide on the base for your sauce. Common bases include tomato puree or paste, broth (vegetable, chicken or beef), coconut milk, or a dairy product like cream, half and half or yogurt. The base provides thickness and helps carry the flavors of herbs, spices and aromatics.

To build flavor, sauté minced garlic and shallots or onions in olive oil. Add fresh or dried herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, oregano or parsley. Spices such as crushed red pepper, paprika, turmeric or cumin also help boost flavor. Cook the aromatics just until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.

For extra richness, stir in a bit of butter, cream or coconut milk. Simmer the sauce briefly to allow the flavors to blend and thicken slightly. You can also puree some of the sauce to give it a smoother texture.

Finish the sauce with a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice, vinegar, wine or broth. Additional ingredients such as capers, olives, anchovies or chili peppers can also be added depending on the cuisine. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes to heat through.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, herbs or spices to suit your tastes. For a sweeter sauce, stir in a bit of honey, maple syrup or sugar. Simmer for a minute more before removing from heat.

Let the sauce cool slightly, then puree until smooth if desired. Pour the sauce into sterilized jars or containers and refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for longer storage. Homemade sauces also make great gifts!

With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can make delicious homemade sauces to enliven any dish. Experiment with different combinations of flavors and aromatics to create sauces you love. Your homemade sauces will make your cooking more vibrant, flavorful and satisfying.