Savory Staples: The Ultimate Essential Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to cooking, having a few staple recipes in your arsenal can make meal planning and preparation a breeze. These are the recipes that you can turn to time and time again, knowing that they will always be delicious and satisfying. In this article, we’ll explore some of the ultimate essential savory recipes that every home cook should have in their repertoire.

Roast Chicken

Roast chicken is a classic dish that is both simple and delicious. It’s perfect for a family dinner or for entertaining guests. The key to a perfect roast chicken is to season it well and to cook it at the right temperature for the right amount of time.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken
• 1 lemon, cut in half
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 garlic cloves, smashed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Rinse chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Season chicken inside and out with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff the cavity with lemon, onion, and garlic.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
6. Roast in the oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Spaghetti Bolognese

Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that is hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or for feeding a crowd. The key to a great Bolognese sauce is to cook it low and slow, allowing the flavors to develop over time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper
• 1 pound spaghetti

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
2. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer over low heat for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
7. Serve Bolognese sauce over cooked spaghetti.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs well with just about any main course. They are creamy, comforting, and easy to make. The key to perfect mashed potatoes is to use the right potatoes and to not overwork them.

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add potatoes and cook until tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot.
4. Add milk and butter.
5. Mash potatoes until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Conclusion

Having a few essential savory recipes in your repertoire can make meal planning and preparation a breeze. Roast chicken, spaghetti Bolognese, and mashed potatoes are just a few examples of delicious and satisfying dishes that every home cook should know how to make. With these recipes in your arsenal, you’ll never be at a loss for what to cook for dinner.