Béchamel sauce, also known as white sauce, is a versatile and creamy base for many classic dishes. It's easy to make and can be used in everything from macaroni and cheese to lasagna.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk (you can use low-fat milk, but whole milk creates a creamier sauce)
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon white pepper (you can use black pepper if you prefer)
A pinch of ground nutmeg (optional, but it adds a lovely depth of flavor)
Instructions
Prepare Your Ingredients: Before you start, have all your ingredients measured and ready. This sauce comes together quickly, so you'll want to have everything at hand.
Melt the Butter: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Make sure not to let it brown; you're looking for a smooth, liquid consistency.
Make the Roux: Once the butter has melted, add the flour to the saucepan. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon or a whisk to create a smooth paste, known as a roux. Keep stirring for about 2-3 minutes. This step is essential to cook off the raw taste of the flour.
Add Milk Gradually: Gradually pour in the milk while continuing to stir. This will prevent lumps from forming. It's important to add the milk a little at a time initially and stir well to fully incorporate it into the roux before adding more. This helps to create a smooth and lump-free sauce.
Simmer and Thicken: After all the milk is added, continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. The sauce will gradually thicken as it comes to a gentle simmer. Be patient; this can take about 10-15 minutes. Once it reaches your desired consistency (it should coat the back of a spoon), remove it from the heat.
Season: Add the salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. Nutmeg is traditional, but you can omit it if you prefer.
Serve: Your Béchamel sauce is now ready to use in your favorite recipes. If you're not using it right away, cover it with a piece of plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming.
Béchamel sauce is a culinary chameleon, and you can modify it with additional ingredients like cheese for a cheesy sauce or herbs for added flavor. Enjoy your culinary creations with this creamy and versatile sauce!
