A Plain and Cheap Sauce

Embark on a journey of culinary thrift and flavor with the creation of A Plain and Cheap Sauce. This versatile concoction promises to elevate your dishes with minimal ingredients and effort. Born from the harmonious union of water, sugar, and a hint of butter, this sauce showcases the beauty of simplicity while allowing room for personalization. Whether you opt for the warmth of brandy, the classic charm of vanilla, the zing of lemon, or the comforting embrace of wine and nutmeg, this sauce offers a world of taste possibilities that won’t break the bank. Join us as we explore the art of creating this Plain and Cheap Sauce that proves that culinary indulgence can be accessible to all.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 1/2 cupfuls of water
• 1 cupful of sugar
• Small piece of butter
• 1 tablespoonful of corn starch or flour
• Flavoring of choice: brandy, vanilla, lemon, wine (with or without nutmeg), or zest and cinnamon

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

1. If using corn starch or flour, rub it smooth with a little cold water.
2. Stir in the smooth corn starch or flour, sugar, and, if preferred, the yellow rind of a lemon and cinnamon, when the water boils.
3. Cook the mixture well for two to three minutes, ensuring it thickens and cooks through.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the butter and chosen flavoring (unless lemon and cinnamon were used).

YIELD: Depends on the quantity prepared.

SERVING:

• A Plain and Cheap Sauce can be served as a versatile accompaniment to a variety of desserts.
• Drizzle the sauce over puddings, cakes, or fruits, adding a touch of indulgence without breaking the budget.

TIPS:

• For a velvety smooth consistency, ensure the corn starch or flour is fully blended before adding it to the boiling water.
• Adjust the sweetness of the sauce by adding more or less sugar to taste.
• Experiment with different flavorings to tailor the sauce to your desired taste profile.

In the realm of culinary exploration, A Plain and Cheap Sauce stands as a testament to the ingenious art of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. With just a handful of humble ingredients, this sauce defies expectations and delivers a burst of flavor that is both delightful and accessible.

The process begins with the simple act of bringing water to a boil, laying the foundation for the symphony of taste that is about to unfold. As the water bubbles and simmers, it sets the stage for the introduction of corn starch or flour, whose very presence adds a touch of magic to the mix. With gentle persuasion, these binders meld with the water, creating a canvas of consistency that is both smooth and inviting.

As the mixture reaches its boiling point, sugar joins the ensemble, infusing sweetness that dances upon the palate. Should you choose to add a burst of zest and a sprinkle of cinnamon, the sauce takes on an added layer of complexity, revealing the potential for flavor exploration that is inherent in each recipe.

The next step requires patience and precision, as the mixture continues to cook and thicken for two to three minutes. This transformative process elevates the sauce from a mere concoction to a velvety elixir that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Upon reaching its desired consistency, the saucepan is removed from the heat, signaling the finale of this culinary symphony. A touch of butter is introduced, adding a layer of richness that envelops the palate with every spoonful. And then comes the pièce de résistance – the flavoring. Will it be the alluring warmth of brandy, the timeless charm of vanilla, the zesty embrace of lemon, or the soothing notes of wine and nutmeg? Each choice is a testament to your palate’s desire, offering a customized creation that is uniquely yours.

As you drizzle A Plain and Cheap Sauce over desserts, you’re not merely adding a condiment; you’re creating an experience. With every bite, you taste the culmination of effort, the magic of transformation, and the beauty of culinary ingenuity. This sauce proves that lavishness need not be extravagant; it can be born from simplicity and crafted with care.

So, whether you’re adorning a cake, dressing a pudding, or enhancing a humble bowl of fruit, A Plain and Cheap Sauce invites you to partake in a journey of flavors that are both accessible and exceptional. With each dollop and drizzle, you remind yourself that culinary artistry is within your reach, and that even the most basic ingredients can yield a masterpiece of taste.