If you're a fan of gourmet dishes, you may have heard of demi-glace before. This concentrated sauce is made from roasted bones and vegetables that are simmered with wine and aromatics for hours until the flavors are intensified. While making demi-glace from scratch may be a time-consuming process, there is a shortcut that can save you time in the kitchen – using 2 tbsp (30 g) of store-bought demi-glace. And the best part? You don't have to sacrifice the taste and quality of your dishes with this time-saving ingredient. It adds the same rich, umami flavor to your meat dishes that you would get from making the sauce from scratch. And at only 15 calories per serving, it's a guilt-free way to amp up the flavor of your meals.

Aside from saving time, using 2 tbsp (30 g) of demi-glace is a convenient way to make classic sauces such as bordelaise, sauce Robert, and sauce Perigueux. These sauces may require numerous ingredients and several steps, but adding a spoonful of demi-glace to the mix can simplify the process without compromising the taste. Plus, stockpiling some demi-glace in your pantry can be a lifesaver when you're in a pinch and need a quick sauce to elevate your dish.

If you're not sure how to use demi-glace or have never tried it before, don't worry – we've got you covered. In the following subheadings, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for incorporating this versatile sauce into your cooking repertoire.

A Versatile Sauce for Different Dishes

Demi-glace is a game-changer for meat dishes. It's a versatile sauce that can elevate the flavor of various dishes, from steak to chicken to pork. You can use it as a base for stews and gravies, mix it with cream for a velvety texture, or add it to broths for extra depth of flavor. Demi-glace can also be used as a glaze for roasted vegetables or as a topping for baked potatoes. Another benefit of using demi-glace is its ability to transform leftover meat into a gourmet dish. If you have some cooked meat in the fridge that needs a little love, adding a spoonful of demi-glace can turn it into a delicious meal. The sauce pairs well with roasted or braised meats and can turn a simple dinner into a restaurant-worthy plate.

A Convenient Way to Make Classic Sauces

Sauces can make or break a dish, but making them from scratch can be a daunting task. Fortunately, 2 tbsp (30 g) of demi-glace can be a convenient way to make classic sauces that require a long list of ingredients and multiple steps. For example, bordelaise sauce, which is traditionally made by reducing red wine with shallots, thyme, and demi-glace, can be made much quicker by using store-bought demi-glace. Similarly, sauce Robert, a mustard-based sauce that goes well with roasted meats, can be easily made by mixing demi-glace with dijon mustard and other seasonings. Using demi-glace can be a timesaver when you're cooking for a crowd or hosting a dinner party. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen making sauces, you can spend more time socializing with your guests while still serving delicious, gourmet dishes.

A Time-Saving Ingredient for Busy Cooks

Life can be hectic, and sometimes you don't have the luxury of spending hours in the kitchen. That's where 2 tbsp (30 g) of demi-glace comes in – it can be a time-saving ingredient for busy cooks who want to create flavorful meals without sacrificing too much time. For example, you can use demi-glace as a quick glaze for grilled chicken or as a finishing touch for pan-seared steak. It can also add a burst of flavor to simple dishes such as mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

Transform Your Leftover Meat into a Gourmet Dish

As we mentioned earlier, using demi-glace can turn your leftover meat into a gourmet dish. But how exactly do you do that? Here's a simple recipe to get you started:

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the leftover meat (chicken, beef, or pork).
• Once the meat is heated through, add 2 tbsp (30 g) of demi-glace and stir to coat the meat.
• Lower the heat and let the meat simmer in the sauce for a few minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
• Serve with your choice of sides, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.

Enhances the Flavor of Your Meat Dishes

If you're a meat lover, you know how important it is to get that perfect, juicy flavor in every bite. Demi-glace can help you achieve that by adding a rich, meaty flavor to your dishes. Whether you're grilling a steak or roasting a chicken, adding a spoonful of demi-glace can take your meat dishes to the next level. It also pairs well with earthy herbs such as rosemary and thyme, which can enhance the flavor even further.

A Must-Have in Every Home Cook's Pantry

If you're serious about cooking and want to have a well-stocked pantry, adding 2 tbsp (30 g) of demi-glace to your list of ingredients is a must. It's a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, as we've mentioned before. Plus, it has a long shelf life when stored properly, so you can always have it on hand when you need it. And the best part? It can be a lifesaver when you're in a rush and need a quick way to add flavor to your meals.

Suitable for Special Occasions and Dinner Parties

If you're hosting a special occasion or dinner party and want to impress your guests with delicious, restaurant-quality dishes, using demi-glace can be your secret weapon. It can help you create complex flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. For example, you can glaze your roasted vegetables with demi-glace for an elevated side dish or use it to make a rich mushroom sauce to accompany your roast beef. Your guests will be impressed with the depth of flavor in your dishes, and you'll get to enjoy the party without being stuck in the kitchen.

A Delicious Addition to Grilled or Roasted Vegetables

Vegetables may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of demi-glace, but trust us – it's a match made in culinary heaven. Adding a spoonful of demi-glace to your grilled or roasted vegetables can take them from basic to gourmet. It adds a savory depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the veggies. Try glazing your asparagus with demi-glace or roasting your Brussels sprouts with a mix of olive oil, garlic, and demi-glace.

Gluten-Free and Suitable for Special Dietary Requirements

If you're following a gluten-free diet or have other dietary requirements, you'll be happy to know that demi-glace is a safe ingredient to use. It's typically made with gluten-free ingredients and doesn't contain any major allergens such as dairy or soy. However, as with any product, it's important to check the label to ensure that it meets your specific dietary needs.

Easy to Store and Use

Last but not least, another benefit of using 2 tbsp (30 g) of demi-glace is that it's easy to store and use. Most store-bought demi-glace comes in a jar or a resealable pouch, which makes it easy to keep in your pantry. And when you need to use it, all you have to do is measure out the amount you need and add it to your dish. No need to thaw, chop, or preheat anything – just simply spoon it in and let the sauce work its magic.