Calico Sauce
A flavorful, creamy sauce with green pepper and pimento, perfect for vegetables like cabbage, spinach, and broccoli, offering a savory and slightly tangy taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix instant minced onion and water; let stand for 5 minutes.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add the onion mixture and green pepper; cook and stir until tender but not brown.
- Add and stir in the flour.
- Gradually blend in the bouillon, stirring constantly.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 3 minutes until thickened.
- Add and stir in the pimento, salt, and celery seed.
- Serve on cabbage, spinach, or broccoli.
Tips & Substitutions
For a milder flavor, consider using fresh onion instead of instant minced onion. If you don't have celery seed, celery salt can be used as a substitute. To enhance the sauce, add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. This sauce can also be made dairy-free by using a plant-based butter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
This Calico Sauce pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like cabbage, spinach, or broccoli. For a heartier meal, serve it over cooked rice or pasta. It also complements grilled meats or fish, making it versatile for various dishes. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Calico Sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a smooth consistency. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little broth or water to reach the desired texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calico Sauce contains roughly 2360 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 245g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (14% of the Daily Value) and iron (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh vegetables instead of minced green pepper and pimento?
Yes, you can use fresh chopped green peppers and pimentos. Just ensure they are finely chopped to achieve a similar texture and flavor. Cook them until tender before adding to the sauce for the best results.
Is it possible to freeze Calico Sauce?
While it's possible to freeze Calico Sauce, the texture may change upon thawing. To freeze, cool the sauce completely, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.
What can I serve with Calico Sauce besides vegetables?
In addition to vegetables, Calico Sauce works well as a topping for baked potatoes, or as a flavorful sauce for grilled chicken or fish. You can also drizzle it over quinoa or use it as a dip for crusty bread, enhancing various dishes and adding flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).