Leftover Sauces
A hearty, versatile leftover sauce dish featuring vegetables, beans, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for quick meals or family dinners with customizable ingredients.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Thin leftover gravy by adding chicken or beef bouillon if desired.
- Add diced onions, celery, and green peppers to the mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add chunked potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, or cabbage, along with a can of whole or crushed tomatoes.
- Cook until the vegetables are done.
- If adding meat, cook the vegetables until almost done, then add the meat to the mixture.
- Serve over or with mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mix. If you have any leftover meat, such as shredded chicken or crumbled sausage, they can be excellent additions. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef bouillon. Don't hesitate to experiment with spices like cumin or paprika to complement the chili powder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. It also pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or over rice. This recipe can be a great base for a meatless meal or can be enhanced by adding cooked sausage or beef, echoing the flavors of Kev'S Famous Double Meat Chili.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, until warm. If the mixture thickens, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Leftover Sauces contains roughly 14 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 other types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While kidney beans work well, you can substitute them with black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if using canned beans, as they require less cooking compared to dried beans.
What vegetables can I add to the sauce?
You can customize this recipe with a variety of vegetables. Great options include zucchini, bell peppers, or even leafy greens like spinach. Feel free to use whatever you have on hand, making it a versatile dish that minimizes waste while maximizing flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of liquid if needed.
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).