Sauce and Seasonings Archives -

Microwave Caramel Sauce (Real Caramel, No Thermometer)

Alysen — Mon, 11 May 2026 00:30:26 +0000

This microwave caramel sauce is rich, buttery, smooth, and made right in the microwave — no candy thermometer and no stovetop babysitting needed. It has that classic homemade caramel flavor, but the microwave does most of the work.

Made with simple ingredients like granulated sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, butter, vanilla, and sea salt, this easy caramel sauce turns golden, glossy, and pourable after just a few steps.

Drizzle it over ice cream, brownies, apple slices, pancakes, cheesecake, coffee drinks, or any dessert that needs a warm caramel finish.

✔ Made in the microwave
✔ No candy thermometer needed
✔ Smooth, buttery, and pourable
✔ Naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free labeled ingredients
✔ Perfect for ice cream, apples, brownies, coffee, and desserts

Why You’ll Love This Microwave Caramel Sauce

This homemade caramel sauce gives you the flavor of classic caramel without standing over the stove.

It starts with granulated sugar, water, and corn syrup, which helps create a smooth caramel sauce with a rich golden color. Once the sugar mixture cooks, heavy cream, butter, vanilla, and sea salt turn it into a silky dessert sauce.

You’ll love this recipe because it is:

Easy to make in the microwave — no saucepan or candy thermometer required.
Rich and buttery — perfect for drizzling over desserts.
Smooth and creamy — the corn syrup helps prevent grainy caramel.
Make-ahead friendly — store it in the refrigerator and warm it when needed.
Great for so many desserts — ice cream, apple slices, brownies, cakes, and coffee all love caramel.

What Is Microwave Caramel Sauce?

Microwave caramel sauce is a homemade caramel sauce made by cooking sugar, corn syrup, and water in the microwave instead of on the stovetop.

Traditional caramel sauce can feel intimidating because sugar can burn quickly or crystallize. This microwave method makes the process easier because the sugar mixture cooks in a microwave-safe glass measuring cup or bowl.

The key is to watch the color. The mixture will start pale, then turn light yellow or light amber. After it rests, it deepens into a golden caramel color. Then the cream, butter, vanilla, and salt are stirred in to make a smooth caramel sauce.

Ingredients for Microwave Caramel Sauce

Granulated Sugar

Granulated sugar creates the classic caramel base. As it cooks, it turns into that deep golden caramel flavor.

Corn Syrup

Corn syrup helps prevent the sugar from crystallizing, which can make caramel grainy. You only need a small amount, but it makes a big difference in the texture.

Water

Water helps dissolve the sugar so the caramel can cook evenly in the microwave.

Heavy Cream

Room temperature heavy cream turns the cooked sugar mixture into a creamy, pourable caramel sauce. Add it slowly because the caramel will bubble when the cream goes in.

Unsalted Butter

Butter adds richness, shine, and that classic buttery caramel flavor.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla gives the caramel warmth and depth. Use gluten-free vanilla extract if needed.

Sea Salt

Sea salt balances the sweetness and gives the sauce a salted caramel flavor. For a stronger salted caramel sauce, add a tiny bit more salt to taste.

How to Make Caramel Sauce in the Microwave

Start by adding the granulated sugar, corn syrup, and water to a large microwave-safe glass measuring cup or microwave-safe bowl. A 4-cup glass measuring cup works well because the caramel bubbles as it cooks.

Microwave the mixture on high, stirring once halfway through. Start checking the color early, especially if your microwave runs hot. You want the mixture to be light yellow or pale amber — not dark brown.

Once the sugar mixture reaches the right color, leave the microwave door closed and let it sit for about 5 minutes. The caramel will continue to darken as it rests.

Carefully stir in the room-temperature heavy cream a little at a time. The mixture will bubble, so add the cream slowly. Then stir in the butter, vanilla extract, and sea salt until the sauce is smooth and glossy.

Serve warm or let it cool, then store in the refrigerator.

Tips for the Best Microwave Caramel Sauce

Use a Large Microwave-Safe Bowl

Caramel bubbles as it cooks, so do not use a small bowl or jar. A large microwave-safe glass measuring cup gives the sauce room to rise without overflowing.

Start Checking Early

Microwaves vary a lot in power. Start checking the caramel around the lower end of the cook time. If the sugar mixture gets too dark, the caramel can taste burned.

Look for Light Amber, Not Dark Brown

The caramel will continue to cook and darken after the microwave stops. Pull it when it is light yellow or pale amber, then let it rest.

Add the Cream Slowly

Heavy cream can bubble when it hits the hot sugar mixture. Add it gradually and stir carefully.

Use Room Temperature Cream and Butter

Room temperature ingredients mix more smoothly into the caramel and help create a glossy sauce.

Let It Cool Before Judging the Texture

Caramel sauce thickens as it cools. It may look thin at first, but it thickens and becomes more spoonable after resting. Let the caramel cool down in the microwave without touching it for 5 minutes.

Cold Kitchen or during the cooler months

If your kitchen is particularly cold, you may find that the caramel cools too quickly, making it more difficult to mix in the cream at the end. Keep this in mind, and try to save this recipe for a warmer day.

Why Did My Microwave Caramel Sauce Burn?

Caramel can burn if it cooks too long or if your microwave is very powerful. Start checking the sauce early and watch for a light yellow or pale amber color.

Do not wait for the caramel to become dark brown in the microwave. It continues to darken as it rests, so pulling it early helps prevent a bitter flavor.

Why Is My Caramel Sauce Grainy?

Grainy caramel usually happens when the sugar crystallizes. Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization and keeps the sauce smooth.

For the best texture, stir the sugar mixture well at the beginning, stir only once during cooking, and avoid scraping sugar crystals down the sides once the caramel starts cooking.

How to Use Microwave Caramel Sauce

This caramel sauce is delicious with:

Vanilla ice cream
Brownies
Apple slices
Cheesecake
Pancakes or waffles
Coffee drinks
Milkshakes
Banana bread
Chocolate cake
Yogurt bowls
Dessert boards

For a fun dessert idea, drizzle this caramel sauce over apple slices, brownies, or your favorite gluten-free treats.

How to Store Homemade Caramel Sauce

Store microwave caramel sauce in an airtight container or glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

The sauce will thicken when cold. To make it pourable again, warm it gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one.

Can I Make This Salted Caramel Sauce?

Yes! This recipe already includes sea salt, which gives the sauce a sweet-salty balance. For a stronger salted caramel flavor, add a small extra pinch of sea salt after the butter and vanilla are stirred in.

Is Caramel Sauce Gluten-Free?

This caramel sauce is naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free labeled ingredients. Always check labels on vanilla extract, corn syrup, and any packaged ingredients if you are cooking for someone with celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity.

Can I Make This Vegan?

This specific recipe uses heavy cream and butter, so it is not vegan. For a dairy-free option, try my Vegan Caramel recipe instead.

What to Serve With Microwave Caramel Sauce

This easy caramel sauce is perfect for drizzling, dipping, and stirring into drinks. Try it with ice cream, apple slices, brownies, or coffee.

It would also be delicious with these sweet recipes:

Serve this caramel sauce over Caramelized Bananas for an easy dessert.
Drizzle it over Vegan Coconut Cream Pie for a sweet caramel finish.
Use it alongside White Chocolate Chex Mix for a holiday dessert board.
Try Vegan Caramel if you need a dairy-free caramel option.
Add it to a Protein Mug Cake for a quick microwave dessert.
Spoon it over Sweet Potato Brownies for a rich chocolate-caramel dessert.

More Sweet Recipes

If you loved this microwave caramel sauce, try another easy dessert recipe next. These sweet recipes are great for holidays, parties, movie nights, or anytime you need a simple treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you make caramel sauce in the microwave?

Yes, you can make caramel sauce in the microwave. The sugar, corn syrup, and water cook together in a microwave-safe bowl until the mixture turns light amber, then cream, butter, vanilla, and salt are stirred in to make a smooth caramel sauce.

Do I need a candy thermometer for microwave caramel sauce?

No, you do not need a candy thermometer. Watch the color instead. The sugar mixture should be light yellow or pale amber before it rests and darkens.

Why did my caramel sauce burn in the microwave?

The caramel likely cooked too long or your microwave runs hot. Start checking at the lower end of the cook time and remember that the caramel continues to darken as it rests.

Why is my caramel sauce grainy?

Grainy caramel usually means the sugar crystallized. Corn syrup helps prevent crystallization, which is why it is important in this microwave caramel sauce recipe.

How long does homemade caramel sauce last?

Homemade microwave caramel sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

How do you reheat caramel sauce?

Reheat caramel sauce gently in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one, until smooth and pourable.

Is this caramel sauce gluten-free?

Yes, this caramel sauce is naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free labeled ingredients. Always check labels if you are cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity or celiac disease.

Can I make this into salted caramel sauce?

Yes. The recipe already includes sea salt, but you can add a small extra pinch after cooking if you want a stronger salted caramel flavor.

Yay! You have made it this far, and I am so glad! If you make this recipe, I'd love for you to give it a quick review and star rating ★ below. Make sure you follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook, too!

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Microwave Caramel Sauce

This easy Microwave Caramel Sauce Recipe cooks in the microwave in about 6 minutes and turns smooth, rich, and buttery—no candy thermometer needed!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword microwave caramel sauce

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 6

Rest Time 5

Total Time 16

Servings tablespoons

Calories 80kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

1 Microwave safe bowl

Ingredients

1 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons corn syrup
3 tablespoons water
½ cup heavy cream room temperature
3 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon sea salt

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

In a microwave-safe glass measuring cup (at least 4 cups large) or medium bowl, add the granulated sugar, corn syrup and water. Mix to combine.
Microwave on high for 6-9 minutes, stirring once at the 3-minute mark, until the mixture is just starting to turn a light yellow color.
Leave the door closed on the microwave and let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, until it darkens to golden amber color. Do not stir yet.
Then gradually stir in the room temperature heavy cream. Be careful, as the mixture will bubble up as the cream gets added.
Then, add the unsalted butter, vanilla extract and sea salt. Stir to combine.
Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks until ready to use.

Notes

- Microwave wattage can affect cook time. Start checking the caramel at the lower end of the cook time to prevent burning.
  The caramel should be light yellow or pale amber before resting. It will continue to darken after the microwave stops.
  Use a large microwave-safe glass measuring cup or bowl because the caramel bubbles as it cooks.
  Add the heavy cream slowly and carefully. The hot caramel will bubble when the cream is added.
  The sauce thickens as it cools. Reheat gently in short microwave intervals to make it pourable again.

Nutrition

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Best Lemon Garlic Aioli (5-Minute Easy Recipe + Vegan Option)

Alysen — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 18:37:49 +0000

This lemon garlic aioli is a creamy, zesty sauce made with fresh garlic, lemon juice, and mayonnaise. It’s the perfect garlic aioli dip for fries, a flavorful spread for burgers and sandwiches, and a delicious drizzle for roasted vegetables.

Ready in just 5 minutes, this easy homemade aioli recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with simple ingredients.

📌 WHAT IS LEMON GARLIC AIOLI?

Lemon garlic aioli is a creamy garlic sauce traditionally made with garlic and olive oil, but modern versions use mayonnaise as a base for a quick and foolproof recipe.

This garlic aioli sauce combines:

Fresh garlic
Lemon juice (and zest)
Mayonnaise
Salt

The result is a smooth, tangy, and slightly bold aioli dip that pairs perfectly with a wide variety of foods.

❓Why This Lemon Garlic Aioli Recipe Is So Delicious

This semi-homemade recipe doesn't require you to make a mayo from scratch! You just choose your favorite already-prepared mayonnaise (vegan mayo works!) and add fresh flavor from garlic and lemons.
Because this recipe is so simple, you can mix up the lemon garlic aioli in less than 10 minutes. You can eat it right away, but it's best to wait an hour so the flavors can meld and develop.
Lemon Garlic Aioli is the perfect dipping sauce or topping for so many things! I love dipping carrot sticks and French fries into this creamy sauce or using it to top a veggie burger or summer zucchini bake.

🛒 INGREDIENTS FOR LEMON GARLIC AIOLI

To make this homemade garlic aioli, you’ll need:

Mayonnaise (creamy base): you can use either vegan or regular
Fresh Garlic cloves, minced
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest (optional but recommended)
Salt and pepper, to taste

🔄 INGREDIENT NOTES + SUBSTITUTIONS

Make sure that the garlic is very finely minced or ground. The best tool for this job is a microplane grater. You can also make do with a garlic press or a mortar and pestle. The key is to avoid large chunks of garlic in the dip.
Use fresh ingredients to make homemade aioli. Since there are only a few ingredients in this recipe, they must all be delicious. Fresh lemon and fresh garlic will give you amazing flavor, so don't take any shortcuts here.
Use the microplane to zest the lemon, too! Make sure that you remove the zest from the lemon before you juice it, since it's quite difficult to zest a lemon that you've already cut in half.
Use your air fryer to make French fries or sweet potato fries to go with lemon-garlic aioli.

👩‍🍳 HOW TO MAKE LEMON GARLIC AIOLI

Making this easy garlic aioli recipe takes just minutes:

Grate lemon zest and garlic (or press the garlic)
In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice
Add lemon zest for extra brightness
Stir until smooth and creamy
Season with salt and pepper to taste
Let sit for 5–10 minutes in the refrigerator to allow flavors to develop

Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.

🔥 PRO TIPS FOR THE BEST AIOLI

Use fresh garlic for bold flavor
Let the aioli rest before serving to deepen the taste
Adjust lemon juice to control tanginess
Add a splash of olive oil for a richer texture

🍟WHAT TO SERVE WITH LEMON GARLIC AOILI

If you run out of ideas, here are my favorite recipes to enjoy with a tangy, creamy dipping sauce:

It’s one of the best sauces for fries and a must-have burger sauce recipe.

🌶️ AIOLI VARIATIONS

Customize this lemon garlic aioli sauce with these easy variations:

Spicy Garlic Aioli

Sriracha
Cayenne pepper
Chili flakes

Vegan Lemon Garlic Aioli

Vegan mayonnaise
Same ingredients otherwise

Roasted Garlic Aioli

Swap fresh garlic for roasted garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor.

Herb Aioli

Parsley
Basil
Dill

👩‍🍳MORE DELICIOUS SAUCE AND DIP RECIPES

🥶 HOW TO STORE AIOLI

Store your homemade aioli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Do not freeze, as the texture may separate.

❓ FAQ: LEMON GARLIC AIOLI

What is garlic aioli made of?

Garlic aioli is typically made with garlic, oil, and salt. Modern recipes may use mayonnaise, garlic, and lemon juice for a quicker version.

Is aioli just garlic mayo?

Yes, in most modern recipes, aioli is essentially a garlic mayonnaise sauce with added flavor from lemon or spices.

Can you make aioli without mayonnaise?

Yes! Traditional aioli is made by emulsifying garlic and olive oil. However, it requires more technique.

How long does aioli last in the fridge?

Homemade aioli lasts about 3–4 days when stored in the refrigerator. You can prepare it before you use it, but be warned that it may disappear as soon as it is created.

💡 EXPERT TIP

For the best flavor, always use fresh lemon juice and let the aioli rest before serving—this allows the garlic to fully infuse the sauce.

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Yay! You have made it this far, and I am so glad! Hey, if you make this recipe, I’d love for you to give it a quick review and star rating ★ below. Make sure you follow me on Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook, too!

Lemon Garlic Aioli

Creamy, savory, bright, and tangy, this homemade Lemon Garlic Aioli checks all the boxes! It's easy to mix up this flavorful sauce for all of your dipping needs.

Course sauce

Cuisine American

Keyword lemon garlic aioli

Prep Time 5

Chilling Time 1

Total Time 1 5

Servings servings

Calories 386kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

microplane grater

Ingredients

3 garlic cloves
1 cup mayonnaise regular or vegan
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
¼ teaspoon salt
⅛ teaspoon ground black pepper

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Use a microplane to grate the garlic very finely. You can also use a garlic press or a mortar and pestle to grind the garlic to a paste.
Add the garlic to a bowl with the mayonnaise, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt and ground black pepper.
Whisk until combined and the garlic is evenly distributed.
Refrigerate for at least an hour to let the flavors meld. Serve with fries or on your favorite sandwich or veggie burger!

Notes

Use fresh ingredients. The garlic and lemon flavors are the stars of this recipe, so be sure to choose real, fresh versions of both.
Use your favorite vegan mayo if you like. Any prepared mayonnaise can be used here.
It's important that the garlic is ground very finely for aioli. The easiest way is to use a fine rasp grater, like a microplane.

Nutrition

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Apple Compote

Alysen — Sun, 14 Dec 2025 10:53:00 +0000

Fresh apples are easily cooked into a spiced Apple Compote that is delicious on everything from pancakes to ice cream. It takes less than 20 minutes to make this tasty apple topping that everyone will love.

Why This Apple Compote Recipe is So Good

The perfect blend of spices. Apples are made to be blended with sweet, warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. This recipe cooks fresh apples with all of them, plus vanilla extract, lemon juice, and sugar to create a delicious apple compote with a beautifully balanced flavor.
An Easy Apple Recipe. I love that you can make up this apple compote in less than a half-hour, and then use it to top vanilla ice cream, toast with cream cheese, or oatmeal. It's easier than making apple pie or applesauce for sure!
Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Dairy Free. If you're cooking for food allergies, sensitivities, or preferences, you'll love that this recipe is TOP 8 allergy-free and made with all-natural ingredients too.

Tips and Tricks for Homemade Apple Compote

Use firm apples to make apple compote. You want the apples to keep their shape after cooking, so be sure to choose baking apples. Here I'm using Honeycrisp and Granny Smith apples, both for their firm texture and their bright flavor.
Using two different apples in this way gives the compote great flavor. One type of sweet apple and another more tart apple is ideal. Try crisp and flavorful Fuji, Cortland, Ida Red, or Jonathan apples too.
There are only a few ingredients in this recipe, so be sure that they are all high-quality. Freshly squeezed lemon juice, pure vanilla extract, and the freshest apples you can find will all go a long way to making your compote perfect.

More Tasty Ways to Cook Apples

Apple Compote

Course Dessert, sauce

Cuisine American

Keyword apple compote

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings servings

Calories 91kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Ingredients

4 cups (5-6 large apples) diced apples I used half honeycrisp and half granny smith
⅓ cup water
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
⅛ teaspoon salt

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Peel, core and chop your apples into ½ inch chunks.
In a saucepan over medium heat, add the apples, water, brown sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground nutmeg, ground cloves and salt.
Stirring occasionally, bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, return to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the liquid has thickened.
Remove from the heat. Serve warm, or transfer to a jar and store in the fridge.

Notes

For best results, use firm apples that will hold their shape while cooking. Soft apples will break down and be more like apple butter than apple compote!
For flavor, choose a combination of apples that are sweet and tart. I like to combine sweet Honeycrisp apples with slightly sour Granny Smith.
You can peel all of the apples, or leave some with the skin on for more texture. It's up to you!
Store apple compote in a sealed jar or another airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
You can also freeze this recipe for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

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Nona's Homemade Vegetarian Tomato Sauce

Alysen — Mon, 08 Dec 2025 02:32:04 +0000

Call it red sauce, spaghetti sauce, tomato sauce, or… if you're really traditional… gravy. But at its core, it’s the basis for just about every delicious Italian recipe you’ve ever had. A true, from scratch, right from the old country Italian tomato sauce that’s going to blow your mind.

VEGETARIAN TOMATO SAUCE RECIPE

The beautiful thing about this sauce is that once made, it can be stored in the fridge for up to a week or frozen for later use. Even better still, like most slow-cooked concoctions, it only gets better with age. Use it over your favorite pasta like spaghetti, rigatoni, fusilli, or any gluten-free or standard pasta you desire.

My favorite pairing is Julián carrots, zucchini, squash, onion, and broccoli to use in place of noodles. You might want to serve up some roasted potatoes and Brussel sprouts or a zucchini bake casserole with your vegetarian spaghetti.

For a quick meal, pair it with impossible sausage or meatballs for an authentic Sicilian flavor. Use it in your eggplant parmesan or as a delicious topper for your next impossible meatloaf.

Spaghetti is a very common dish when it comes to meal time. Whether you are making your vegetarian spaghetti using sauce from a jar or perhaps you are making your own vegan spaghetti sauce from scratch.

Thankfully, this is a simple yet delicious sauce and can be made either from fresh tomatoes or your preferred canned ingredients, and it’ll be equally yummy. With the addition of fresh bell peppers, onion, and garlic, combined with a quality red wine and just a few dry ingredients, you’re sure to wow your friends and family with this one!

If you make this with fresh tomatoes, use Roma tomatoes, about two pounds diced. This would require blending the tomatoes to create a smooth sauce.

In this version, I’m going to show you the easiest method using canned diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and tomato puree. I use red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and brown sugar to kick it up a couple of notches. Ready to dive in?

It is such a fun process to create the sauce, and the kitchen smells amazing. In addition to a comfort meal, it also brings about the itch to travel! I'd love to travel to Sicily someday! Can you imagine all the fantastic food there?

Consider this vegetarian spaghetti sauce with a minimalist approach.

INGREDIENTS IN VEGETARIAN TOMATO SAUCE

Tomatoes - For this recipe, we are using canned sauced tomatoes, tomato puree, and diced tomatoes infused with Italian seasonings. You may use Roma tomatoes if you want to have fresh ones.

Olive Oil - We'll use this to sauté our onion, pepper, and garlic; use whatever light-flavored oil you like. Avocado oil would work well.

Onion - Diced fresh onion adds a lovely warm flavor. For the sauce, I prefer yellow onion so it's not too sweet.

Bell Pepper - For the recipe, I used an orange pepper, but you can use a green pepper, which is savorier. Any color of pepper, green, yellow, orange, or red, will work for the sauce.

Garlic - Diced, fresh garlic gives a warm flavor.

Red Wine - A good red wine helps balance the acidity of the tomatoes and vegetables.

Brown Sugar - A bit of sweetness to the tomato sauce.

Seasonings - we're using garlic powder, salt, and red pepper flakes. If you use plain diced tomatoes or fresh ones, you will want to add basil and oregano. You can add or change this to suit your own tastes.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment below and I will get back to you ASAP!

We are taking a minimalist approach to our vegetarian spaghetti sauce because we want to let the simple ingredients do the talking. Not only does this meatless spaghetti sauce pack the flavor, but it can pair with any pasta or vegetable.

Spoon the Vegetarian Tomato Sauce over anything, and they will love you forever!

HOW TO MAKE VEGETARIAN TOMATO SAUCE

Instructions:

Start by slicing up all the fresh ingredients ahead of time. That way, you’re ready to add as you go.
Add 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil to a medium stock pot, 4-6 quart size will do in this case.
Heat the oil on medium, then add the bell peppers and stir. Let it cook 3 to 4 minutes.
Add onion and stir. Add a few dashes or a few grinds of salt and stir. Let cook for another 3 minutes.
With your large wooden spoon or spatula, sweep out a clear circle in the center of your veggies and add the garlic. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
Add your red wine and stir thoroughly until it begins to bubble.
Let the wine boil for a minute or so and then reduce heat to low.
Add your canned sauce and diced tomatoes, stir thoroughly. Note: use half of the tomato paste, the other half can be frozen for another time.
Add your dry ingredients – sugar, red pepper flakes, garlic and salt. Also add Italian seasoning if you have it.
Extra tip: if you have fresh herbs, add 3 or 4 basil leaves and several oregano leaves. Rub them through your fingers a bit to bruise and release the flavors. Stir in and cover.
Note: Now here’s the thing about sauces like this. The longer they cook, the more the flavors will integrate. 4 hours or more is best, but it’ll be ready to eat in one. Give it at least one hour, because by then the herbs and pepper flakes will mature and you should taste a good balance between the sweet and the spicy. Just a hint of spicy.

TIPS AND VARIATIONS FOR VEGETARIAN SPAGHETTI SAUCE

So much of this sauce is really a matter of taste. I’ve included suggested amounts of dry ingredients. But you’ll want to taste test after an hour. If you wish to, kick it up with more red pepper. If you want less kick, add a bit of sugar or more garlic powder. It’s really up to you and what tastes good.
For those using pressure cookers like an InstaPot, set to pressure cook for 30 minutes and taste test. If you’re happy, go ahead and serve. If you want to tweak the flavors, add extra ingredients and pressure cook for another 30 minutes.
This is a classic family favorite and comes loaded with wonderful flavors and lots of healthy ingredients, including loads of anti-oxidants from those peppers! That’s it, easy as pie!

WHAT IS MARINARA SAUCE?

Marinara sauce is a tomato sauce that is made by combining tomatoes, onions and herbs. It has a wide range of variations to the basic recipe. Marinara sauce is frequently used in American and Italian Cuisines.

IS MARINARA SAUCE VEGAN?

Yes, in its basic form, marinara sauce is vegan. It is a combination of tomatoes, onions and herbs.

CAN YOU FREEZE VEGETARIAN SPAGHETTI SAUCE?

Yes, this meatless spaghetti sauce freezes well. I often make a double batch when all my garden tomatoes ripen at once!

WHAT ABOUT TOMATO SKINS?

Some vegan spaghetti recipes that use fresh tomatoes remove the skins. If using fresh tomatoes, use high powered blender to blend our meatless spaghetti sauce. If you do not have access to a high-powered blender, you can boil the tomatoes first to remove their skins.

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Nona's Homemade Vegetarian Tomato Sauce

Course Dinner, gluten free, vegan

Cuisine Gluten-free, Italian, Italian American, Vegan, Vegetarian

Keyword vegetable sauce, Vegetarian Pasta with Tomato Sauce, vegetarian tomato sauce

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 4

Servings people

Calories 76kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

1 Stock pot

Ingredients

24 ounce tomato sauce
30 ounces diced tomatoes
3 ounces tomato paste
½ cup red wine
2 bell peppers order of lowest to highest sweetness, bell peppers range from green, yellow, orange to red
1 onion yellow preferred
7 garlic cloves 6 to 8 cloves
½ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
2 tbsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
3 tbsp Italian seasoning if tomatoes are plain

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Add 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil to a medium stock pot, 4-6 quart size will do in this case.
Heat oil on medium and when heated, add peppers and stir. Let cook 3 to 4 minutes.
Add onion and stir. Add a few dashes or a few grinds of salt and stir. Let cook for another 3 minutes.
With your large spoon or spatula, sweep out a clear circle in the center of your veggies and add the garlic. Stir and cook for 2 minutes.
Add your red wine and stir thoroughly until it begins to bubble.
Let the wine boil for a minute or so and then reduce heat to low.
Add your canned sauce, paste, and diced tomatoes, stir thoroughly.
Add your dry ingredients – sugar, red pepper flakes, garlic, and salt. Also add Italian seasoning if you have it.,
Extra tip: if you have fresh herbs, add 3 or 4 basil leaves and several oregano leaves. Rub them through your fingers a bit to bruise and release the flavors. Stir in and cover.
Let the sauce simmer for at least an hour. Check for taste and add additional spices for flavor. Note that the longer the sauce can simmer before serving, the better.

Notes

So much of this sauce is really to taste. I’ve included suggested amounts of ingredients here, mainly the dry. But you’ll want to taste test after an hour. If you wish to, kick it up with more red pepper. If you want less kick, add a bit of sugar or more garlic powder. It’s really up to you and what tastes good.
For those using pressure cookers like an InstaPot, set to cook for 30 minutes and taste-test. If you’re happy, go ahead and serve. If you want to tweak the flavors or add extra ingredients, pressure-cook for another 30 minutes.
This is a classic family favorite and comes loaded with wonderful flavors and lots of healthy ingredients, including loads of antioxidants from those peppers! That’s it, easy as pie!

Spoon this over almost anything, and they’ll love you forever!

Nutrition

The post Nona's Homemade Vegetarian Tomato Sauce appeared first on .

Impossible Beef Stroganoff

Alysen — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 19:22:19 +0000

For time immemorial, the people of Russia have ranged over the length and breadth of the land searching… searching for the most satisfying, rib-sticking meals the world has to offer. Something hearty, rich, filling, and best of all – sustainable and gluten-free!

Now, after decades of painstaking research, I’ve discovered an ancient and remarkable analog to the classic northeastern European dish – beef stroganoff. A rich, oniony, creamy, hearty meal from the ground up… and best of all, it can be made 100% vegetarian, gluten free and even vegan! Let’s dive in, da?

Catherine the Great’s Impossible Beef Stroganoff

Comfort food is my middle name. I'm always searching for the most comforting dinners without all the meat and dairy.

Although there are a few items to collect, most of them are simple and nutritious. Onions, mushrooms, sour cream, pasta, garlic and even your favorite white wine. Now, I didn’t include mushrooms in this preparation, but they’re easy to add, so I’ll include that in the tips.

You can keep this impossible beef recipe vegan by ditching the dairy for vegan sour cream! But of course, I don't skip the yummy wine, vegetarian beef bullion substitute and Worcestershire sauce. The sauce is the best part!

INGREDIENTS IN IMPOSSIBLE BEEF STROGANOFF

Impossible Ground Beef: Plant-based meats or proteins have come a long way. It's not just tofu anymore! Beyond Meat gives you a perfect option without the ground beef and ground pork.

Chickpea Fusilli Pasta: In a standard beef stroganoff, the recipe calls for egg noodles. However, I have replaced them with Chickpea Fusilli pasta for this version of the recipe. You are welcome to modify to your favorite pasta.

Onion: Everything is better with onions. We will sauté the onions in oil until they are translucent.

Garlic: To add an extra layer of flavor to our onions, we will add sliced raw garlic. If you do not have raw, you are welcome to use garlic powder.

White wine: The type I use is a dry white wine. It will bring out the flavor of the meal, and the alcohol will be non-existent after the cooking process. To make sure I do not waste any wine, I like to buy the four-pack of bottles. Each bottle is perfectly sized for cooking and has no waste.

Sour Cream: To give the sauce a wonderful creamy texture, add sour cream. I am using Kite Hill Sour Cream Alternative. This dairy-free sour cream is made from California almonds and responsibly sourced coconut milk. If you have a favorite or another one found at your grocery store, please use it.

Italian Seasoning: Where onions go, seasoning follows. This Italian seasoning is so perfect with impossible beef sauce.

If you have any questions about making Impossible Beef Stroganoff with Impossible Meat, please leave a comment below, and I will respond as soon as possible!

HOW TO MAKE IMPOSSIBLE BEEF STROGANOFF

Begin by opening your package of impossible beef. I've found that freezing it first until it's almost but not quite solid makes the plant-based beef easier to work with and cut the way you want.
Slice the square of meat down the middle, and then, cutting along the short end, cut slices about ¼ inch thick so that you have pieces about 2" long.
Heat a large skillet to medium, pour in 2 tablespoons of your oil, and let it warm.
Salt and pepper your plant-based meat, then place it in hot oil, seasoned side down, covering the pan and ensuring there is no stacking.
Brown the plant-based beef for about 2 minutes, then flip and brown for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside on a plate.
In the still-heated pan, add the remaining oil and then add the onions. Stir and let cook for about 4 minutes or until the onions begin to get translucent.
Add the garlic to the hot oil and stir while cooking for about 1 minute.
While the onions cook, stir the bullion into the warm water until dissolved.
Slowly stir in the corn starch to your bouillon mixture and stir vigorously until dissolved. Add the mixture to the skillet with the onions.
Add the wine to the skillet and let it cook down, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, and your broth mixture and stir. Reduce the heat to low.
Your sauce should immediately begin to thicken. Continue stirring to ensure it's consistent.
Add back the partially cooked plant-based beef.
Cover and let simmer on low for about 20 minutes. If it continues to bubble, reduce the heat to warm.
While the beef simmers, bring a pot of water to a boil and drop in the pasta. Cook until fork-tender, staying on the al dente side so that the pasta doesn't get too mushy. Drain and set aside.
After draining the pasta, add the sour cream to the beef mixture and turn off the heat. Stir in thoroughly until incorporated and cover. Let it stand for a minute or two.
Plate up the pasta and then scoop the Impossible Beef Stroganoff mixture over it. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and enjoy!

The complete list of ingredients and instructions for Impossible Beef Stroganoff is in the recipe below.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH IMPOSSIBLE BEEF STROGANOFF

If you need some greens to complement this dish, you are welcome to add your favorites. For me the Impossible Beef Stroganoff is a meal unto itself.

If noodles are not your go to, you can substitute with mashed potatoes. The Impossible Beef Stroganoff sauce is perfect to use as a gravy for creamy mashed potatoes.

Or, enjoy your meatloaf with Air Fryer Baked Sweet Potatoes or roasted cauliflower with tahini instead.

This air fryer green bean casserole is super simple and vegan! Your family will never believe it's a dairy-free casserole. For a simpler version, make sauteed green beans and mushrooms instead!

I like to keep my side dishes simple with meatloaf, like these roasted potatoes and Brussels sprouts or sauteed sweet potatoes.

WHAT IS A SUBSTITUTE FOR SOUR CREAM IN VEGAN IMPOSSIBLE BEEF STROGANOFF?

There are absolutely no animal products in this beef stroganoff!

Want it vegan? In this recipe, I used Kite Hill Sour Cream Alternative, a dairy-free alternative. Use your favorite brand of sour cream alternative.

MORE YUMMY VEGAN RECIPES

Lunch is the hardest meal for me to enjoy. I'll take breakfast or dinner any day! This vegan chicken salad turned that around, and now I make it every other week!

When you need the comfort of a hearty stew but don't want all that meat, try this vegan beef stew! All the flavor with none of the animal products.

End your night on a sweet treat with these Air Fried Oreos! You read that right — enjoy this iconic carnival food with lower calories when you skip the hot oil.

Need more vegan dessert recipes? We have so many delicious ones! Start with Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies, or go big and make a Gluten-Free Mint Chocolate Cake to impress your guests.

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Impossible Beef Stroganoff

The impossible beef stroganoff is made with plant-based proteins and a generous blend of spices. Add your favorite pasta or mashed potatoes for a quick weeknight meal!

Course Dinner

Cuisine Gluten-free, Vegan, Vegetarian

Keyword beef stroganoff, impossible beef stroganoff

Prep Time 30

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1 15

Servings people

Calories 276kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

1 Large skillet
1 medium sauce pan
1 Strainer

Ingredients

1.5 cups water
½ cup dry white wine
12 ounces Vegan Sour Cream Kite is the brand used in this recipe
1 box Fusilli Chickpea Pasta Any gluten-free pasta
1 medium onion diced
3 cloves garlic diced, garlic powder works too.
3 cubes vegetable beef bullion substitute
12 ounces Impossible Beef Any brand of plant-based beef will work
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon parsley dried or chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pepper
1.5 teaspoons corn starch
1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
4 tablespoons Olive oil avocado oil will work too.

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Begin by opening your package of impossible beef. I’ve found that if you freeze it first until it's almost but not quite solid, it makes the meat easier to work with and cut the way you want.
Slice the square of beef down the middle, and then, cutting along the short end, cut slices about ¼ inch thick so that you have pieces about 2” long.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and pour in 2 tablespoons of oil, allowing it to warm. Salt and pepper your meat substitute and then place in hot oil, seasoned side down, covering the pan and making sure there is no stacking.
Brown the beef for about 2 minutes, then flip and brown for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside on a plate.
In the still-heated pan, addthe remaining oil and then add the onions. Stir and let the mixture cookfor about 4 minutes, or until the onions begin to become translucent. Add the garlic to the hot oil and stir until it cooks for about 1 minute.
While the onions are cooking, stir the bullion into the warm water in a separate bowl until it is dissolved. Then, slowly stir in the cornstarch and stir vigorously until it is dissolved. Set aside.
Add the wine and let it cook down, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, a pinch of salt and pepper, and your broth mixture and stir. Reduce the heat to low.
Your sauce should begin to thicken immediately. Continue stirring to ensure consistency and then add the partially cooked beef back. Cover and let simmer on low for about20 minutes. If it continues to bubble, reduce the heat to a warm setting.
While the beef simmers, bring apot of water to a boil and drop in the pasta. Cook until fork-tender, staying on the al dente side so that the pasta doesn’t get too mushy. Drain and set aside.
After draining the pasta, add the sour cream to the beef mixture and turn off the heat. Stir thoroughly until incorporated, then cover. Let it stand for a minute or two.
Plate up the pasta, and then scoop the Impossible Beef Stroganoff mixture over it. Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and savor the flavor!

Notes

One thing I left out was the fresh mushrooms. So if you’re a mushroom fan, then slice up a handful of your favorites and sauté them with the onions and garlic. Everything else is the same.

The reason we sliced the beef frozen, or nearly so, is that it’ll hold its shape. After cooking on both sides, you’ll have a semi-crispy and firm set of slices.

Always salt your meat first; it helps to bring out the flavors. Also, if you’re using fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, or parsley, add these when you’re ready to add the garlic. A little sauteing will bring out those fresh flavors.

Enjoy this hearty meal and let me know what you think!

Nutrition

Thanks for stopping by and checking out this recipe. Whether you are here because you want to eat more meatless meals, you're a vegetarian or vegan, or whatever brought you here, you are welcome here! We are happy to have you! If you are looking for meatless main dishes, consider checking out Vegan Zucchini Fritters, Instant Pot Pad Thai, Vegetarian Potato Soup Recipe, and Mediterranean Rice Bowl.

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Mamma’s from-scratch kicked-up Chili Powder Seasoning

Alysen — Sun, 27 Jul 2025 22:48:44 +0000

Is there anything better than Mexican food made with fresh ingredients? Tacos, burritos, carne asada, and even classic chili? Well, like most flavorful foods from around the world, the key is in the foundation… and for out-of-this-world Mexican… your chili powder is critical!
Sure, you can buy store-made stuff… but what you’re getting is something McCormick whipped up in some factory in Sheboygan a year and a half ago. Sure, it works… but where’s the soul? Where’s that special ingredient that turns quality non-gluten, vegetarian, and even vegan cooking into an event for the whole family? Where, after all… is the love?

In this simple yet delicious recipe, I’ll show you how to make your own from-scratch smoky chili powder at home in just 30 minutes. And what you’re going to get is a fresh, sharp, and extraordinary ingredient you can use in almost anything that calls for that all-important wow-factor!

And the best part? You only need a few special ingredients, and most of them are likely already in your pantry. Aside from fresh, dried chilies and cumin, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and even extra cumin if you like.

It’s a snap, and I’ll show you exactly how.

Uses and ideas:

Bold Savory Flavor: Why make chili powder from scratch? You’ll get a fresh, smoky, and well-rounded seasoning blend that you can store for several months. It’s as versatile as you want it to be. For example, aside from the obvious tacos, enchiladas, tostadas, and chili, your fresh, from-scratch chili powder can kick up just about anything, from vegan cooking to a full-on chili cook-off.
A Versatile Seasoning: Some examples include adding a spicy kick to a Tex-Mex Enchilada soup, Air Fryer Stuffed Peppers, brightening up your veggie stir-fry with a little zip, and adding some pep in your Tofu scramble!
Easy and Economical: You only need a few special ingredients, and most of them are likely already in your pantry. Aside from fresh, dried chilies and cumin, you can add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and even extra cumin if you like.

Tips and Tricks for Making Mamma’s from-scratch kicked-up Chili Powder

Don't Overthink It! This recipe is quite simple. Measure out the ingredients, heat the chilies and cumin, and blend in a blender to a fine powder. That's it!
Adjust the Heat: If you want your seasoning to be spicier with an extra kick, keep the seeds from the chilies.
Gloves for seed removal: When you break up the chilies, use gloves. The oils from the chilies will coat your fingers. It takes a few hand washes to remove the smell. Don't touch your eyes until you wash your hands.
Store in an Airtight Container: After you've made the Chili seasoning, use a funnel to transfer it into a container with an airtight lid. This keeps moisture from getting to the seasoning, which could cause it to get clumpy.
Another Storage Tip: You can add small silica gel packets to your spice jars to keep them fresher for even longer.
Keep it: Voila, Fresh, smoky chili powder that you and your family will love. Store in a sealed food container and enjoy within 2-3 months. After that… if you have any left, you may want to make another fresh batch!

Smoky chilies in a pan with cumin seeds

How to Use Mamma’s from-scratch kicked-up Chili Powder

Use this spice blend in any recipe that calls for Chili seasoning! It's perfectly balanced to be used just like store-bought versions like Tex-Mex, Chili, or the original Two Alarm Chili blend. The seasoning can be used in any recipe that calls for some spice.

It's also an excellent addition to my 4 Ingredient Potato Soup, Amish Potato Salad, or Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts. Any dish that could use some spice, you can add this seasoning.

More Delicious Spicy Recipes

Making Mamma’s from-scratch kicked-up Chili Powder Seasoning

Homemade Smokey Chili Seasoning is a versatile blend of spices that adds the perfect burst of flavor to any dish!

Course seasoning

Cuisine American

Keyword chili seasoning, smokey chili

Prep Time 2

Total Time 2

Servings cup

Calories 17kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Ingredients

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Collect your spices and chilies you will use.
In a large skillet, add cumin seeds and chilies. Remember to remove any stems and seeds from chilies while wearing gloves and break them into pieces.
Once the chilies begin to sweat, transpose the contents of the pan into a blender along with the other spices.
Blend to a fine powder; occasionally stopping to stir the chilies so the powder does not clump.
Transfer to a air-tight container.

Notes

For better results and a smoother process, consider the following suggestions.

Wear gloves, if you have them, while handling the chilis – and DON’T touch your eyes until you’ve thoroughly washed your hands several times.
Dried chilis – 2 or three varieties, including California, Ancho, Cascabel, and Jalapenos, of course. I generally use three types, although two or four is also okay.
The number of peppers varies depending on size. In this recipe, I used six large peppers, which yielded about a cup of powder.
Make sure to shake the fry pan and stir.
If you can cook the chilies outside, do so, or turn on the fan over your stove.
Don’t cook too quickly – it may take a few minutes for the cumin seeds to begin toasting, but be patient. Too much heat, too quickly, will burn the peppers.
De-seed the chilis over a paper towel or into the trash. Although a few seeds in your powder are okay, the seeds do tend to make the end product bitter and spicier.

Nutrition

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Spaghetti Seasoning

Alysen — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Make your favorite spaghetti dinner even more delicious with our homemade recipe for the perfect spaghetti seasoning!

With this simple blend of dried herbs and spices, you can enhance any of your favorite pasta dishes. It's also perfect for pizza, soups, sauces, and more!

Why This Spaghetti Seasoning Recipe is So Good

Authentic Italian Flavors: Spaghetti Seasoning is similar to Italian seasoning, but it adds a few additional ingredients that make it perfect for pasta recipes. Herbs and spices like onion powder, garlic powder, and dried basil will turn any dish into an Italian specialty.
Money Saving: Mixing up your own homemade spice blends is generally more economical than buying pre-made seasoning mixes. Plus, you can adjust any of the flavors to suit your preferences when you make it yourself.
An Easy Meal Starter: This recipe makes the perfect amount of spaghetti seasoning to make a single batch of vegetarian spaghetti sauce. It works really well with vegan ground meat substitutes like Beyond Beef or Impossible Beef to make a ragu or bolognese-style sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Making Spaghetti Seasoning

Adjust the Flavors: If you like a sweet touch to your spaghetti sauce, add ½ tablespoon of granulated sugar to the mixture. To add spice, mix in ½ teaspoon of crushed red peppers.
Mix it Up: After storing, the heavier spices will settle to the bottom of the jar. Be sure to shake everything up before using.
Double the Recipe: You can make more than one batch of spaghetti seasoning. Keep it on hand for easy meals in the future.
Storage: This spaghetti seasoning recipe will keep in a cool, dry place for up to 5 months.

How to Use Spaghetti Seasoning

To make the best spaghetti dinner: Cook up 1 pound of ground vegan "meat" using this recipe as the seasoning. Pour in a jar of marinara sauce, heat through, and serve over your favorite pasta.

Spaghetti Seasoning is also delicious to add to all of your favorite Italian dishes! Try it in Vegetarian Lasagna, Eggplant Parmesan, Mushroom Spaghetti Squash, or Vegan Carbonara.

More Easy Vegetarian Italian Recipes

Spaghetti Seasoning

Make your favorite spaghetti dinner even more delicious with our homemade recipe for the perfect spaghetti seasoning!

Course seasoning

Cuisine Italian

Keyword spaghetti seasoning

Prep Time 2

Total Time 2

Servings Tablespoons

Calories 18kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Mixing bowl

Ingredients

1 Tablespoon Dried Parsley
1 Tablespoon Onion Powder
½ Tablespoon Garlic Powder
1 Teaspoon Italian Seasoning
1 Teaspoon Dried Basil
½ Teaspoon Salt
½ Teaspoon Black Pepper

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl or dish and stir until mixed.
Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the pantry for up to 5 months. Keep away from humid areas.

Notes

Adjust the Flavors: If you like a sweet touch to your spaghetti sauce, add ½ tablespoon of granulated sugar to the mixture. To add spice, mix in ½ teaspoon of crushed red peppers.
Mix it Up: After storing, the heavier spices will settle to the bottom of the jar. Be sure to shake everything up before using.
Double the Recipe: You can make more than one batch of spaghetti seasoning. Keep it on hand for easy meals in the future.
Storage: This spaghetti seasoning recipe will keep in a cool, dry place for up to 5 months.
To Make Spaghetti Sauce: Cook 1 pound of your favorite ground vegan "meat" using this entire recipe as the seasoning. Pour in a jar of marinara sauce, heat through, and serve over your favorite pasta.

Nutrition

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Cajun 2 Step Seasoning

Alysen — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 13:00:00 +0000

Homemade Cajun 2 Step Seasoning is a versatile blend of spices that adds the perfect burst of flavor to any dish!

With a simple combination of rich smoked paprika, savory garlic powder, and a touch of heat from cayenne pepper, this Cajun seasoning will add a spicy Cajun kick to all of your favorite recipes.

Why This Cajun 2 Step Seasoning Recipe is So Good

Bold Savory Flavor: I love adding Cajun 2 Step Seasoning to vegetarian dishes. Not only does this spice blend add heat, it also adds a balanced bold and savory note to anything to add it to.
A Versatile Seasoning: This Cajun seasoning blend is magic! You can use it to add extra bold flavor to grilled tofu, sauteed vegetables like my Cajun Fried Corn, salads, and more! Use this seasoning in any recipe that calls for Cajun seasoning, or add a pinch wherever you like.
Easy and Economical: Making your own spice blends at home gives you the most control over the ingredients. It can also be cheaper to mix up your own spice blends at home since single spices are usually less expensive than fancy blends.

Tips and Tricks for Making Cajun 2 Step Seasoning From Scratch

Don't Overthink It! This recipe is really quite simple. Measure out the ingredients and stir them up in a bowl. That's it!
Adjust the Heat: If you want your seasoning to be milder, you can reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the recipe. On the other hand, if you want it extra spicy, add more.
Onion Powder: Some Cajun seasonings include onion powder, while others don't. You can add up to 1 Tablespoon to this blend if you want to.
Store in an Airtight Container: After you've made the 2 step seasoning, use a funnel to transfer it into a spice jar or another container with an airtight lid. This keeps moisture from getting to the seasoning, which could cause it to get clumpy.
Another Storage Tip: You can add small silica gel packets to your spice jars to keep them fresher for even longer.
Keep it: If properly stored, this cajun spice blend will stay fresh in your pantry for up to six months.

How to Use Homemade Cajun 2 Step Seasoning

Use this spice blend in any recipe that calls for Cajun seasoning! It's perfectly balanced to be used just like store-bought versions like Slap Ya Mamma or the original Cajun Two-Step blend.

We use Cajun Seasoning to make Cajun Fried Corn and Bloves Sauce.

It's also an excellent addition to my 4 Ingredient Potato Soup, Amish Potato Salad, or Air Fryer Brussel Sprouts.

More Delicious Spicy Recipes

Making Mamma’s from-scratch kicked-up Chili Powder Seasoning

Homemade Smokey Chili Seasoning is a versatile blend of spices that adds the perfect burst of flavor to any dish!

Course seasoning

Cuisine American

Keyword chili seasoning, smokey chili

Prep Time 2

Total Time 2

Servings cup

Calories 17kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Ingredients

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Collect your spices and chilies you will use.
In a large skillet, add cumin seeds and chilies. Remember to remove any stems and seeds from chilies while wearing gloves and break them into pieces.
Once the chilies begin to sweat, transpose the contents of the pan into a blender along with the other spices.
Blend to a fine powder; occasionally stopping to stir the chilies so the powder does not clump.
Transfer to a air-tight container.

Notes

For better results and a smoother process, consider the following suggestions.

Wear gloves, if you have them, while handling the chilis – and DON’T touch your eyes until you’ve thoroughly washed your hands several times.
Dried chilis – 2 or three varieties, including California, Ancho, Cascabel, and Jalapenos, of course. I generally use three types, although two or four is also okay.
The number of peppers varies depending on size. In this recipe, I used six large peppers, which yielded about a cup of powder.
Make sure to shake the fry pan and stir.
If you can cook the chilies outside, do so, or turn on the fan over your stove.
Don’t cook too quickly – it may take a few minutes for the cumin seeds to begin toasting, but be patient. Too much heat, too quickly, will burn the peppers.
De-seed the chilis over a paper towel or into the trash. Although a few seeds in your powder are okay, the seeds do tend to make the end product bitter and spicier.

Nutrition

The post Cajun 2 Step Seasoning appeared first on .

Chile Crema

Alysen — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Creamy and spicy Chile Crema is the best topping for tacos or any of your favorite Mexican meals! It's super simple to make this chile crema recipe with sour cream, chile paste, and just a few minutes in the kitchen.

Why This Chile Crema Recipe is So Good

It's sour cream, but way more delicious! Just like our Smoky Red Pepper Crema, the addition of flavorful chili paste and lime juice takes a simple condiment to a whole new level.
Restaurant-style crema at home - You might enjoy the chile crema at Qdoba or your local taco shop, but now you can make it at home, and it's so simple and inexpensive!
A 5-Minute Recipe! Simply add all of the ingredients listed below to a mixing bowl and stir. That's it! Chile Crema is a very easy recipe.

Tips and Tricks for Making The Best Chile Crema

The key ingredient to this flavorful crema is chipotle paste. This is a concentrated blend of roasted peppers that can be used to add a kick to just about anything!
You will find chipotle paste in a small jar or can in the Mexican section of your grocery store. It's also sold in a tube, similar to how tomato paste is packaged. Either one works!
Instead of chipotle paste, you can also use the same amount of pureed or minced chipotles in adobo.
The amount of heat in your crema will depend on your chiles and what type of hot sauce (and how much) you add. I suggest adding a small amount of hot sauce to start, and adding more at the end if you need more spice.
Use full-fat sour cream. Low-fat versions just don't have the same flavor and texture! This recipe will also work with vegan sour cream like those from Good Culture or Violife. Use your favorite!

What to Serve with Chile Crema

Once you've mixed up this spicy Mexican sour cream, you are going to want to put it on everything!

Chile crema is the perfect topping for tacos, so be sure to check out our recipes for Tofu Tacos, Air Fryer Cauliflower Tacos, and Vegan Taquitos.

More Tasty Sauce Recipes

I found this recipe for Pepita Serrano Crema that sounds delicious too!

Chile Crema

Creamy and spicy Chile Crema is the best topping for tacos or any of your favorite Mexican meals! It's super simple to make this chile crema recipe with sour cream and chile paste, and it only takes 5 minutes to create.

Course sauce

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword chile crema

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings cups

Calories 372kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Mixing bowl

Ingredients

1 cup sour cream
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp salt
3 tbsp hot sauce
2 tsp chipotle paste
Juice of half a lime

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Add the sour cream, garlic powder, salt, hot sauce and chipotle paste to a bowl and mix well to combine.
Squeeze in the lime juice and stir through.
Transfer to your serving bowl or jar or choice.

Notes

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
Instead of chipotle paste, you can also use the same amount of pureed or minced chipotles in adobo.
The amount of heat in your crema will depend on your chiles and what type of hot sauce (and how much) you add. I suggest adding a small amount of hot sauce to start, and adding more at the end if you need more spice.
Use full-fat sour cream. Low-fat versions just don't have the same flavor and texture! This recipe will also work with vegan sour cream like those from Good Culture or Violife. Use your favorite!

Nutrition

The post Chile Crema appeared first on .

Seasoned Sour Cream

Alysen — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 12:00:00 +0000

An incredibly easy and super tasty recipe for Seasoned Sour Cream can be whipped up in just a few minutes! It's perfect as a dip for veggies, or as a topping for your favorite Mexican recipes.

Why This Seasoned Sour Cream Recipe is So Good

This dip is made with simple ingredients that you probably already have! Things like garlic powder, paprika, and Worcestershire sauce are hanging out in your cupboard right now, just waiting to be turned into a creamy and delicious dip.
You can make it ahead of time, and have it ready for snacking or unexpected guests. This sauce can be stored for several days in the refrigerator.
Encourage your family to eat more fresh veggies, by offering fresh-cut vegetable sticks with this tasty dip. Everything is better with seasoned sour cream!

Tips and Tricks for Making Seasoned Sour Cream

This recipe is super simple, all you need to do is add all of the ingredients to a bowl and whisk! I suggest using a large mixing bowl so that you can mix everything really well.
Worcestershire sauce is traditionally made with anchovies, but there are vegetarian and vegan options available now. Look for organic Worcestershire sauce from Annie's, or the 365 brand from Whole Foods.
If you can't find vegan or gluten-free Worcestershire, use coconut aminos or tamari instead for a similar complex flavor.

What to Serve with this Tasty Seasoned Sour Cream

As a creamy dipping sauce, this sour cream dip is wonderful served with fresh veggies. It's also tasty with potato chips, pretzels, or your favorite crackers.

Use seasoned sour cream instead of plain sour cream in your favorite recipes too! It's perfect dolloped on Air Fryer Baked Potatoes, Vegan Birria Tacos, or my cheesy Vegetarian Enchiladas.

More Delicious Dips and Sauces to Try

Seasoned Sour Cream

An incredibly easy and super tasty recipe for Seasoned Sour Cream can be whipped up in just a few minutes! It's perfect as a dip for veggies, or as a topping for your favorite Mexican recipes.

Course Appetizer, sauce

Cuisine American

Keyword seasoned sour cream

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Servings cups

Calories 472kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Ingredients

2 cups sour cream
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce ensure vegetarian and gluten free
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp paprika
¾ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

Get Recipe Ingredients

Instructions

Add all ingredients to a large mixing bowl.
Whisk thoroughly to combine.
Transfer to your serving bowl of choice and chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.

Notes

Check your Worchestershire sauce to be certain that it is gluten free and vegetarian. Traditionally, this sauce is flavored with anchovy, but vegan options are available, including Annie's, Whole Foods 365 brand, and others.
Use regular sour cream, or choose a vegan sour cream substitute.
To serve, sprinkle the dip with chopped chives or fresh parsley.
This seasoned sour cream dip makes a wonderful veggie dip, and it also works well as a topping for tacos or baked potatoes!

Nutrition

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Vegan Caramel

Alysen — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Vegan Caramel Sauce is a no-fuss, dairy-free, and deliciously thick recipe that is perfect for pouring over ice cream, making vegan desserts, or sweetening your coffee!

With just 5 ingredients and a few minutes on the stove, you'll be amazed by this creamy vegan caramel that you've created from scratch.

Why This Vegan Caramel Sauce Recipe is So Good

It's dairy-free but perfectly creamy! Instead of the heavy cream usually used to make caramel sauce, this recipe uses full-fat coconut milk. It's amazing how coconut cream and milk can give such a luscious texture!
Caramel is easy to make from scratch with this simple recipe. You need one saucepan, a whisk, and 5 ingredients. The recipe below will show you exactly how to make vegan caramel on the stove in just a few minutes!
Unlike store-bought caramel, this dairy-free caramel sauce is also gluten-free, nut-free, and made without any additives or food dyes.

Tips and Tricks for Making Vegan Caramel

You can store the caramel in the fridge for up to five days after making it, but it's best when you enjoy it right away. Homemade caramel can get gritty after refrigeration.
A candy thermometer is super helpful when making this recipe, especially if you're not already a pro at cooking caramel! Cook the sugar mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage or 235°F.
Use full-fat coconut milk rather than a light version, and be sure to pour it out of the can into a bowl and whisk it well to combine the coconut solids and liquid.

What To Do With Vegan Caramel

Aside from the obvious applications of vegan ice cream sundaes and dipping apple slices, this delicious vegan caramel sauce is a delicious addition to many of your favorite vegan desserts!

Drizzle a little (or a lot) of vegan caramel on Vegan Rice Krispie Treats, Vegan Apple Crisp, Apple Snicker Salad, or a microwaved Vegan Mug Brownie.

Turn your morning oat milk latte into a caramel oat milk latte by drizzling a bit of this into the mug. You can also easily stir homemade caramel into your favorite cold brew coffee for an afternoon treat!

I saw this recipe for caramel apple cookies that I have to try this fall!

More Sweet Treats and Toppings

Vegan Caramel

Vegan Caramel Sauce is a no-fuss, dairy free, and deliciously thick recipe that is perfect for pouring over ice cream, making vegan desserts, or sweetening your coffee!

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword vegan caramel, vegan caramel sauce

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 15

Total Time 20

Servings cup

Calories 1271kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Ingredients

1 cup light brown sugar
½ cup full fat coconut milk well stirred and divided
2 tablespoons dairy free butter
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
½ teaspoon sea salt

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Instructions

Place the light brown sugar and coconut milk in a large saucepan set over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has melted completely.
Bring the caramel to a boil and cook until the temperature reaches the “soft ball” stage (235F). This should take 5-7 minutes, but I highly recommend using a candy thermometer to ensure it’s the right temperature!
Remove the pan from the heat and add the butter, vanilla and sea salt. Whisk to combine. Pour the vegan caramel into a jar or bowl.
Enjoy immediately. This caramel is best enjoyed fresh as it will become gritty when reheated. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated in 10 second intervals in the microwave until warm.

Notes

You can store the caramel in the fridge for up to five days after making it, but it's best when you enjoy it right away. Homemade caramel can get gritty after refrigeration.

A candy thermometer is super helpful when making this recipe, especially if you're not already a pro at cooking caramel! Cook the sugar mixture until it reaches the soft ball stage, or 235°F.

Use full-fat coconut milk rather than a light version, and be sure to pour it out of the can into a bowl and whisk it well to combine the coconut solids and liquid.

Nutrition

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Palomino Sauce

Alysen — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

The most delicious creamy tomato sauce for your pasta is this rose-colored pasta sauce called Palomino Sauce!

Combine your favorite marinara sauce with heavy cream and a few strategic flavor ingredients - this silky pink sauce will be your new favorite for pasta night.

Why This Easy Palomino Sauce Recipe is So Good

It's So Simple to Make It! Start with a jar of marinara sauce. Choose your favorite, any will do. Sautee some onion and garlic, mix in the sauce, then add cream and parmesan cheese. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
Amazing Flavor - The cream cuts the acidity of the tomato sauce, making this sauce rich, mild, and perfectly tasty! Kids and adults will love this easy upgrade to your normal vegetarian spaghetti sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Making Homemade Palomino Sauce

Enjoy Palomino sauce with your favorite pasta, gluten-free pasta, or pasta substitutes like spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice.
It's also delicious as a dipping sauce for Air Fryer Breaded Ravioli, Mozzarella Sticks, or Fried Zucchini.
You can store this sauce in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Instead of marinara sauce, try this method with other types of spaghetti sauce like puttanesca sauce or bolognese.

Palomino Sauce Variations

Some people like their Palomino sauce to have a little bit of a kick to it! 1 seeded and chopped banana pepper, cooked with the onion will add a delicious extra layer of flavor if you'd like to try it.

Fresh Herbs such as parsley or basil can be added to the sauce, or chopped and added to the pasta as a fresh, green garnish.

To make vegan palomino sauce, replace the cream with canned coconut milk, and use nutritional yeast or your favorite vegan parmesan substitute.

More Easy Pasta Recipes

Palomino Sauce

Palomino Sauce is the most deliciously creamy, pink sauce for your pasta. It's simple to make this upgraded marinara sauce with just a few ingredients.

Course Dinner, sauce

Cuisine Italian

Keyword palomino sauce

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings cups

Calories 337kcal

Author Alysen

Equipment

Saucepan

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion diced
3 cloves garlic minced
1 500g/18oz jar marinara sauce
1 tsp sugar
1 cup cream
¾ cup vegetable stock
½ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt to taste

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Instructions

Heat oil in a large saucepan and fry the onion on a medium setting until softened – about 5 minutes. Then add the garlic and fry for another minute.
Add the marinara sauce, sugar, cream and vegetable stock and stir well. Bring to a boil then simmer for 15 minutes. Then remove from the heat and stir through the parmesan cheese.
Serve over your favorite pasta or gnocchi with a little extra parmesan and some fresh parsley on top (optional).

Notes

The sauce should keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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