Sauces are an important component of dishes that can enhance taste, moisture, texture and appearance. They are usually thickened liquids that add flavor, richness and moisture to foods. Common basic sauces include white sauces made with milk and roux, velouté sauces made with stock and roux, and hollandaise made with butter, eggs and lemon. Proper preparation of sauces requires careful attention to cleanliness, proper thickening techniques like roux, and finishing touches like reduction, straining and butter enrichment.