The Ingredient I Stopped Buying for Thanksgiving (and Don’t Miss at All)

Every November, I used to stock up on canned cream soups — that “must-have” shortcut for casseroles and gravy.

But last year, after reading the label (corn syrup solids, MSG, seed oils), I realized the shortcut was stealing the soul of my food.

So I swapped it out for a simple homemade sauce made with olive oil, coconut milk, and real broth. Five ingredients. No mystery.

The first spoonful told the truth — this is what comfort is supposed to taste like.

🧠 The Science Behind It

🥥 Coconut Milk — Adds creamy texture and healthy fats without dairy or fillers.
🫒 Olive Oil — Rich in antioxidants and helps carry flavor while supporting heart health.
🍗 Real Broth — Provides collagen, minerals, and that deep umami flavor—no MSG required.

✨ The Magic Together — These three build layers of richness and comfort naturally, giving casseroles and gravies the same nostalgic taste—without the can.

🧡 What I Learned

• The “easy” button isn’t always worth pressing.

• Real fat + real broth = natural umami (no MSG needed).

• When you cook from scratch, you feel the difference — not just taste it.

💬 Crew Win

“I finally made green bean casserole without the can — and my kids asked for seconds.”
— Jen T.

🌿 Quick Tip

Keep a jar of coconut milk and good olive oil in your pantry.
With garlic and salt, you can build sauces, soups, or gravies that rival anything canned — no shortcuts needed.