These days, it’s nearly impossible to pop out to the grocery store for one or two ingredients that you’re missing. And even if you can, odds are high that the item is out of stock. But some grocery staples are easier to make than you might think…and you might just find they’re tastier too!
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RecipeHand-Mixer Mayonnaise
You don't have to beat a whisk until your arm aches to enjoy homemade mayonnaise: whipping up a fresh batch takes just a few minutes with a hand mixer.
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RecipeNutty Granola
Out of breakfast cereal? This simple granola is easy to tailor with whatever nuts or dried fruits you have in the house. -
RecipeHomemade Yogurt
OK, so you do need a bit of yogurt to make yogurt, but this is a great way to restock when you're running low. -
RecipeHomemade Nut Butter
Nut butters made from whole nuts taste so much fresher. No peanuts? Put a spin on your PB&J with pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts -
RecipeHandmade Flour Tortillas
Once you taste these and see for yourself how uncomplicated it is to make them, store-bought tortillas may not taste the same ever again. Users report you can also substitute bacon fat or olive oil if you don't have shortening or lard. -
RecipeHomemade Ricotta
Unlike other homemade cheeses, ricotta requires neither cultures nor rennet. All you need is a half-gallon of milk and a lemon or two. The secret is to heat the milk slowly at a low temperature, stirring only a few times. Make it in the morning and use it in that night's lasagne, or just drizzle it with honey and eat with a spoon.
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RecipeQuick Blueberry Jam
Perfect for spreading on toast, croissants, or biscuits, or for swirling into yogurt or oatmeal, this super-simple jam will keep—without canning—for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.
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RecipeMarinara Sauce
This large batch of sauce freezes well and can be used for many a quick meal.
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RecipeHomemade Graham Crackers
These homemade graham crackers are the base of Yasmin Lozada-Hissom's Frozen Lemon Cream Cakes, but they're also a delicious snack in their own right. Or, layer them with Homemade Marshmallows and top-quality dark chocolate for the ultimate s'mores.
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RecipeQuick Homemade Condensed Milk
Making this pantry staple at home (just 4 ingredients!) is totally worth it; the smooth, rich texture is unlike anything you’ll get from a can. Use it in baked goods like tres leches cake, or to transform coffee into an indulgent treat. -
RecipeHomemade Vegetable Broth
Use this savory broth in place of chicken broth in any recipe.
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RecipeHomemade Baked Tortilla Chips
Homemade chips are so much better than store-bought chips, and they’re easier to make than you might think.
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RecipeRough Puff Pastry
This is a simpler approximation of puff pastry, perfect to use for topping a pot pie or as a tart base. All you need is butter, flour, and salt. -
RecipeFresh Pasta for Lasagne
This basic pasta can be used for more than just lasagne. Use a pasta cutter or a sharp knife to cut into narrower noodles, like pappardelle or fettuccine. -
RecipeHomemade Butter
It’s a crime to serve a loaf of warm bread without butter. For a special treat, try making your own.
