Easy and Traditional Homemade Béchamel Sauce
The sauce béchamel is an essential base in numerous classic and creative recipes. This creamy sauce, prepared with butter, flour, and milk, pairs perfectly with various dishes, ranging from béchamel recipes like lasagnes, pastas, or gratins. Whether you are looking for a simple sauce béchamel or a more elaborate version such as the sauce béchamel with seafood or hard-boiled eggs, the béchamel remains an indispensable in any kitchen. It is also used in specific dishes like chicken vol-au-vent or seafood pizza sauce béchamel. Whether you are seeking a quick sauce béchamel recipe or a more complex one, the versatility of this sauce makes it an asset to elevate your meals.
Instructions
Step 1
Preparation of Ingredients Start by measuring all your ingredients. Cut the butter into small pieces so it melts faster. Sift the flour to avoid lumps in the béchamel sauce. Lastly, make sure the milk is at room temperature or slightly warm for easier incorporation into the roux.
Step 2
Preparation of the Roux In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Once the butter is completely melted, add the flour all at once. Stir immediately with a wooden spoon or whisk to mix the butter and flour well. Continue cooking the mixture over low heat for about 2 to 3 minutes, without stopping stirring. This mixture is called a roux, and it forms the base of your béchamel sauce. It's important not to let the roux brown, as this would alter the color and taste of your béchamel sauce.
Step 3
Incorporation of Milk Once the roux has cooked for a few minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the milk gradually, stirring vigorously with a whisk to prevent lumps from forming. Once all the milk has been added, return the saucepan to medium heat. Continue whisking constantly until the sauce starts to thicken. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. If you prefer a thicker béchamel sauce, let it cook for a bit longer while continuing to stir.
Step 4
Seasoning of the Béchamel Sauce When the béchamel sauce has reached the desired consistency, add salt and white pepper to taste. If you like nutmeg flavor, add a pinch at this stage. Stir well to incorporate the spices. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. The béchamel sauce should be smooth, creamy, and have a slight buttery flavor.
Step 5
Finalization and Storage Once your béchamel sauce is ready, you can use it immediately for your favorite dishes. If you're not using it right away, transfer it to a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap, making sure the plastic touches the surface of the sauce directly. This will prevent a skin from forming on the surface. The béchamel sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. Before using, reheat gently over low heat while stirring constantly to restore its creamy consistency.
Serving Suggestions
The sauce béchamel adapts to a multitude of recipes, from seafood lasagna to shrimp pasta, passing by the famous divan chicken. Whether you opt for a classic sauce béchamel recipe or an inspired one by chefs like Ricardo, the béchamel will enrich your dishes with a touch of creaminess and flavors. Mastering this traditional sauce béchamel will always give you a simple solution for transforming your dishes into true gourmet feasts, whether it's for a simple homemade sauce béchamel or a shrimp pizza sauce béchamel.
Frequently Asked Questions
6 questions about this recipe
To nail Easy and Traditional Homemade Béchamel Sauce, measure accurately, control heat, and avoid overcooking. Small details like resting time and final seasoning make the biggest difference.
Spices Used
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Skill Progression
You're at beginner level
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