Introduction
If you’re exploring a more sustainable lifestyle, one of the best places to start is your kitchen pantry. Everyday items like sauces and condiments, often come in single-use plastic containers which, in the long run, contribute substantially to our environmental problems. But the good news is, it’s possible and quite easy to minimize this waste by creating your own condiments and sauces at home. In this DIY Zero-Waste Pantry guide, we will explore a variety of condiment and sauce recipes that are not only delicious but also sustainable.
Why Bother Making Your Own Zero Waste Condiments and Sauces?
Going zero waste offers several rewarding benefits. Firstly, it significantly lessens the quantity of harmful plastics we contribute to the environment. Secondly, it empowers us to control what goes into our food, meaning we can avoid preservatives, artificial colors, and excess sugars often found in store-bought items. Lastly, making condiments and sauces at home can be quite enjoyable, invigorating our connection with the food we consume.
Before proceeding to the recipes, you’ll want to have some zero waste containers ready. Glass jars are ideal since they are reusable, recyclable and best for preserving food.
1. DIY Zero Waste Mustard
Making mustard at home is surprisingly straightforward and requires very few ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mustard seeds
- 3/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1-2 teaspoons sea salt
Steps:
- Combine all ingredients in a glass jar, ensuring they are well mixed. Cover it with a lid.
- Let this mixture sit for 2-3 days. This period allows the mustard seeds to absorb the liquids and flavors.
- Once the seeds have soaked up the liquids, blend this mixture until it reaches your preferred consistency.
- Store your homemade mustard in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to six months.
2. DIY Zero Waste Salsa
This tangy, fresh salsa is a star accompaniment to a wide range of snacks and meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 jalapeno
- 1/2 onion
- 1 handful fresh coriander
- 1-2 limes, juiced
- Sea salt to taste
Steps:
- Finely chop all the vegetables and coriander. Combine them in a bowl with the lime juice and salt.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as necessary.
- Store your salsa in a jar in the refrigerator for up to five days. Serve fresh or chilled.
3. DIY Zero Waste Sriracha Sauce
Try your hand at this popular spicy sauce; it’s easier to make than you might think.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups chilli peppers
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Sea salt to taste
Steps:
- Blend all ingredients in a food processor until they become a fine paste.
- Transfer the paste to a pot and bring it to a boil on stovetop. Then, lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- Allow the sauce to cool, then store it in a jar. Keep your homemade sriracha in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Conclusion
Making your own condiment and sauce creations offers so much more than interesting flavors and homemade goodness. This zero-waste practice is eco-friendly, healthy, and allows you to connect more deeply with the foods you consume. More importantly, choosing to be actively involved in your food preparations, however small, means stepping up for your health and the health of our planet. Happy cooking!
