2009_01_08-better-than-bouillon.jpgThis little jar is a constant presence in our refrigerator and has become indispensable when making vegetarian meals.

If we had the time, we'd always make our own vegetable stock, but more often than not, we just don't. Which is why we're never without our trusty jar of Superior Touch Better Than Bouillon vegetable base.

With a paste-like consistency, the base works much like a bouillon cube, but you can measure out as much or as little as you'd like. We usually add a dab of it to the cooking water when preparing rice or other grains. It's also great for soups and pots of beans – really, anywhere you would usually use stock.

Buying cartons of stock can get expensive, and the homemade stuff can feel precious, but we don't think twice about using this base in just about everything. A jar usually costs $5 or $6 and lasts us several months, even when we use it several times a week. A little goes a long way.

The company's line of base products also includes chicken, beef, turkey, ham, clam, lobster, mushroom, chili, vegan chicken and vegan beef, as well as low-sodium and organic options. We can always find the vegetable base, as well as other flavors, at Whole Foods.

Note: Apologies if I've sounded overly promotional, but as a vegetarian, adding flavor to dishes can be a challenge, and this has been a great help.

Related: Times Top 5: How to Stock Your Pantry in 2009

(Image: Amazon)

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