Sauces and dressings give dishes extra flavor.
Sauces and dressings both make a dish moist and add flavor, but what are the differences in the two? Some dishes are covered or cooked in sauce, while other dishes are dressed. Although both terms are often used interchangeably, reading the definition of both sauces and dressings, evaluating their differences and considering the uses for both will help home cooks see that each one has distinct qualities.
Definition of Sauce
Sauce is by far a more widely used term because of its versatile definition. Sauce is generally a thick liquid that adds zest or flavor to a dish. It is said to be used more for savory dishes, but it is also common in dessert foods such as chocolate sauce. It can also be more like a relish, such as salsa, which means "sauce" in Spanish.
Definition of Dressing
Unlike sauce, dressing generally constitutes an emulsion of oil and vinegar, along with the addition of herbs, seasonings or spices, that is primarily used for salads. Common oils are olive, canola and vegetable oil. Common vinegar and vinegar-like substances are balsamic vinegar, apple cider vinegar, lemon and lime juice. Dressing is also use to describe a stuffing to be cooked inside of poultry such as turkey.
Common Sauces and Their Uses
Sauces can be used as a dip, a glaze, a filling and an accompaniment. Major sauces used in culinary practice are bechamel, hollandaise, tomato, demi-glace and veloute. Some common thick sauces are barbecue sauce, ketchup, horseradish sauce and cocktail sauce. Some common thinner sauces are soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce and hot sauce. Tartar sauce is referred to as a sauce but has more dressing-like qualities.
Common Dressings and Their Uses
Dressing can also be used as a dip, an accompaniment or, as the name states, a dressing. Common variations of salad dressings include red wine oil and vinegar, Thousand Island, Caesar, French, Italian and Russian dressing.
Tags: Dressing also, Some common, Their Uses