With the right sauces, any Christmas meal, whether a traditional roast or something more unique, can be elevated to another level.
Here’s a guide to crafting a few classic, delicious homemade sauces, along with tips to make your cooking seamless and stress-free!
1. Plan Your Sauce Selections Thoughtfully
Begin by planning your sauces based on the flavours that will complement your main courses and sides. Think about the richness of a roast turkey, the tenderness of Christmas ham, or the satisfying heft of a nut roast. Each main course pairs wonderfully with distinct sauces, so consider classics like cranberry, bread sauce, or even a rich, creamy mushroom sauce to add depth.
2. Stock up on the Essentials
For most Christmas sauces, you’ll need a solid base of ingredients, such as:
High-quality stock (vegetable, chicken, or beef) – A well-made stock can enhance flavour in gravies, bread sauce, and jus.
Fresh herbs and spices – Festive herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage add holiday flavour. Don’t forget nutmeg and cloves for those warm, seasonal notes.
Butter and cream – Ideal for creating creamy, luscious sauces and balancing the acidity of others.
Seasonal fruits – Cranberries, oranges, and apples work wonders for Christmas sauces.
3. Mastering the Classic Gravy
A homemade gravy is the heart of many Christmas meals. The key to a luscious, velvety gravy is to deglaze the roasting pan. After roasting your meat, use red wine, white wine, or a splash of brandy to scrape up all those delicious browned bits (the fond) and add a rich depth to the sauce.
Once deglazed, add stock and simmer with a few sprigs of thyme and bay leaves for added flavour. Thicken with a roux (equal parts butter and flour) and adjust seasoning.
Tip: Create an Advance Batch
Make a batch of gravy a few days before Christmas to reduce the cooking stress on the day, and keep it in the fridge. Simply reheat and add any meat juices to boost flavour.
4. Whipping Up the Perfect Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce is a holiday staple that’s easy to make and miles better than store-bought. Simply simmer fresh or frozen cranberries with sugar and a splash of orange juice for zest and brightness. If you like a twist, add a splash of port or a pinch of cinnamon for added warmth.
Tip: Balance Acidity and Sweetness
Cranberries are naturally tart, so balance them with the right amount of sugar. Taste as you go and adjust, keeping in mind that a little acidity complements the richness of roasted meats beautifully.
5. Luxurious Bread Sauce for Tradition
Bread sauce might sound simple, but it’s a comforting British classic. Start with milk infused with an onion studded with cloves, a bay leaf, and a touch of nutmeg. Add torn white bread (crust removed) to the milk until it thickens, then stir in a knob of butter and a pinch of salt to finish.
Tip: Add Richness with Cream
For an extra indulgent bread sauce, add a splash of double cream just before serving. This adds a silky, luxurious texture that pairs perfectly with turkey and other roasts.
6. Creating a Flavourful Jus
If you’re after something a little more refined than gravy, a jus (essentially a reduced sauce) can be the perfect accompaniment. A jus starts with a good-quality stock simmered until it thickens. A splash of red wine, port, or balsamic vinegar can add a touch of acidity and complexity.
Tip: Patience is Key
Allow plenty of time to reduce the sauce slowly, as this will intensify the flavours. You’re aiming for a thick, glossy texture that coats the back of a spoon.
7. Experiment with Fruit Sauces
For something unique, try experimenting with other fruit-based sauces. Apple and sage sauce pairs beautifully with pork, while redcurrant and rosemary sauce is wonderful with lamb. These sauces offer a festive balance of sweet and savoury and can often be made ahead.
8. Prepping Sauces in Advance
Most sauces, especially gravies, cranberry sauce, and jus, can be made a day or two ahead, saving you time on Christmas Day. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge and gently reheat before serving. Cranberry sauce, in particular, can be made weeks in advance and kept refrigerated or even frozen for ultimate convenience.
Final Thoughts
Homemade sauces add a personal touch to your Christmas dinner, and with a little preparation, they can be stress-free too. Remember, it’s all about balancing flavours and preparing ahead where possible. Take your time to simmer, season, and taste, and your sauces will surely be the stars of your holiday table.
Happy cooking and a saucy, merry Christmas!