Know Your Sauces: What Is Kitchen Bouquet?
A well-browned meat will surely be a crowd-pleaser. It will definitely be appetizing. Apparently, this is not one thing that is easy to achieve. In an effort to achieve the perfect color, there is a possibility that you will end up burning the meat instead. This is the part where the benefits of Kitchen Bouquet will be evident.
In case you are wondering what is Kitchen Bouquet, keep on reading this post and known more about this popular cooking condiment.
What Is Kitchen Bouquet?
As you can see from the label, it says that Kitchen Bouquet is a browning and seasoning sauce. Unlike others that are usually used as a table condiment, this is for cooking. It is known as a browning agent, which makes it add a hint of brown color to what is being cooked, especially meats, making it look well-roasted without being burnt.
Aside from browning meat, Kitchen Bouquet is also popularly used for browning sauces, such as gravy. It can also be used in marinades. To add, there are also some people who use it in cocktails, which is more of for color than a flavoring.
via: www.cooksinfo.com
It should be pointed out that most people use Kitchen Bouquet only for aesthetic reasons, which is for browning. It does not have a distinct flavor that could significantly alter the taste of your dish. Yet, at all times, its use should be kept in moderation.
However, there are some who would argue that it is indeed a flavoring agent, especially because it contains salt and parsley. Well, at the end of the day, it is for you to find out if it really has a flavor or if it adds nothing but color.
One thing that makes Kitchen Bouquet interesting is the fact that it has a rich history, making it one of the oldest cooking condiments in the market. It was originally called Tournade’s Kitchen Bouquet. The first one is believed to have been around since the 1880s when it was manufactured by Palisade Manufacturing Company in New Jersey.
What Is It Made Of?
As indicated in the label of Kitchen Bouquet, it is made from vegetable base, caramel, sodium benzoate, and sulfating agents. Prior to 2006, it contains gluten. Now, the product is free from wheat, corn, and other possible sources of gluten.
While there are many other condiments that can function as a browning agent, one thing that makes Kitchen Bouquet unique is the fact that it comes with minimal sodium content. In fact, one tablespoon is said to have only 30 milligrams of sodium.
What Are Excellent Substitutes For Kitchen Bouquet?
In situations wherein Kitchen Bouquet is unavailable, there is no need to worry. The following can offer excellent replacements:
Bragg Liquid Aminos
Made by the same company that is known for their apple cider vinegar, this is a sauce made from soybeans, which is more flavorful compared to Kitchen Bouquet. This is popular among vegetarians for adding a distinct taste in their food. It is also non-GMO and gluten-free, making it a healthy addition to your kitchen condiments.
via: thedailydish.us
Gravy Master
The name itself must already provide you with an idea on what exactly it promises to do. It is meant to be used for making gravies and it will add not only color, but also a stronger flavor. Compared to Kitchen Bouquet, the packaging is smaller and it is also more affordable.
Maggi Seasoning
If you have the option, you should stay away from this. While it is effective for browning, the problem is that it tends to be too salty, and hence, there is a high likelihood that the flavor will be changed.
Worcestershire Sauce
Like Maggi seasoning, this can also effectively add a hint of brown, but the problem is that the taste can be overpowering. Be sure to use it sparingly to avoid significant alteration in flavor.
Instant Coffee Granules
This is something that might not have crossed your mind yet. It is a good thing that it is almost always available in the kitchen. Aside from browning, it can also add a distinct taste. But again, it should also be noted that its use should be kept at a minimum. Otherwise, the flavor will be bitter.
Dark Molasses
The caramel in molasses is basically the reason why it will also be a good choice when it comes to substituting for Kitchen Bouquet. It is also thick, which will give a nice texture to your meat, not only a well-browned appearance.
How To Make Your Own Browning Sauce
If you do not want to resort to any of the substitutes mentioned above, the good news is that making your own browning sauce can be an easy process. In this case, the following are the things that you should do:
- Heat one-half cup of sugar in a pan and wait for about 10 minutes.
- Once the sugar is dark, take it out from the source of heat. Add water and stir.
- After adding water, pour beef broth. Do this slowly until the desired consistency is achieved.
- Return the saucepan to the stove and heat.
Conclusion
Still wondering about what is Kitchen Bouquet? Here is a summary of the important points that we have discussed in this article:
- Kitchen Bouquet is a popular brand of cooking condiment. It is used specifically for adding a hint of brown color in grilled meats and sauces, among others. It has been around since the 1880s. It was made by Palisade Manufacturing Company in New Jersey.
- Since 2006, Kitchen Bouquet is free from gluten. It is preferred by many because it has low sodium. One tablespoon only has 30 milligrams of sodium.
- There are other products that can also be used like Kitchen Bouquet, such as Braggs Liquid Aminos, Gravy Master, and Maggi Seasoning. You can also use Worcestershire sauce, instant coffee granules, and dark molasses.
Have you tried Kitchen Bouquet before? How did you use it? Feel free to leave a comment below.
