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Sauces are some of the most essential items in UK kitchens. Whether you’re cooking a quick mid-week meal or preparing a weekend roast, the right sauce can completely transform the flavour of a dish. From everyday staples like tomato ketchup and brown sauce to cooking essentials such as soy sauce, pasta sauces, and curry pastes, each type has its own purpose and taste profile.
This guide gives you a simple overview of the different types of sauces available in UK supermarkets and what they are commonly used for. Over time, you can expand this page with links to individual sauce reviews, brand comparisons, and “Best in the UK” affiliate pages.
1. Table Sauces
These are the everyday sauces people keep on the dining table.
- Tomato Ketchup
- Brown Sauce
- BBQ Sauce
- Mayonnaise
- Peri-Peri Sauce
- Sweet Chilli Sauce
- Garlic Mayo / Aioli
These sauces are used for chips, burgers, sandwiches, and quick snacks.
2. Cooking Sauces
These sauces help build the base of a meal.
- Pasta Sauces (Tomato, Basil, Arrabbiata, Alfredo)
- Curry Sauces (Tikka Masala, Korma, Madras)
- Stir-Fry Sauces (Oyster, Teriyaki, Black Bean)
- Pizza Sauce
- Béchamel / White Sauce
Cooking sauces save time and make it easier to achieve consistent flavours.
3. Fermented & Umami Sauces
These sauces boost savoury depth in recipes.
- Soy Sauce
- Tamari
- Fish Sauce
- Worcestershire Sauce
- Miso Paste
- Hoisin Sauce
They are commonly used in Asian dishes, marinades, and broths.
4. Hot Sauces
For those who enjoy heat and flavour.
- Sriracha
- Tabasco
- Scotch Bonnet Hot Sauce
- Buffalo Sauce
- Extra Hot Chilli Sauce
- Nando’s Sauce (various heat levels)
Each hot sauce offers a different type of spice and aroma.
5. Dipping & Finishing Sauces
Used for snacks, appetisers, and adding finishing flavour.
- Tahini
- Hummus Dressing
- Peanut Sauce
- Ranch
- Caesar Dressing
- Honey Mustard
- Sweet & Sour Sauce
These are ideal for chips, nuggets, salads, wraps, and Asian starters.
6. Marinades & Glazes
These sauces add flavour before cooking.
- Teriyaki Marinade
- BBQ Glaze
- Honey Garlic Marinade
- Lemon Herb Marinade
- Tandoori Marinade
- Korean BBQ (Gochujang blends)
Great for grilling, oven-baking, and meal prepping.