0
0
Bechamel sauce, also known as white sauce, is one of the five mother sauces of French cuisine. It is a creamy and velvety sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. Bechamel sauce is versatile and can be used in various dishes, from pasta to lasagna to mac and cheese. In this article, we will delve into the world of Bechamel sauce, its origin, ingredients, preparation, and some dishes that you can create with it.
What is Bechamel Sauce?
Bechamel sauce is a creamy and velvety white sauce made from butter, flour, and milk. It is one of the five mother sauces of French cuisine, which is the foundation of many French dishes. Bechamel sauce is versatile and can be used as a base for other sauces
History of Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce is named after Louis de Bechamel, a seventeenth-century French financier, and politician. However, the sauce was not invented by him, but rather by his chef, who was experimenting with different sauces. Bechamel sauce was originally made with veal stock, but over time, milk was used instead to make it a more versatile sauce.
Ingredients for Bechamel Sauce
The ingredients for Bechamel sauce are simple and readily available in most kitchens. They include:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated nutmeg (optional)
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Bechamel Sauce
Making Bechamel sauce is relatively easy and straightforward, but it requires constant attention and stirring to prevent lumps. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make Bechamel sauce.
Melt the Butter
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the flour and whisk continuously for two minutes to make a roux.
Add Flour
Add the flour to the melted butter and whisk continuously for two minutes.
Cook the Flour
Cook the flour and butter mixture (roux) for two minutes until it turns slightly golden. This step ensures that the flour taste is cooked out, and the sauce will not have a raw flour taste.
Gradually Add Milk
Gradually add the milk to the roux, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. It is essential to add the milk slowly to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
Whisk Continuously
Whisk the sauce continuously for about 10-15 minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon. This step is crucial to avoid lumps and ensure the sauce has the right consistency.
Add Seasonings
Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste, and whisk to combine. Nutmeg is optional, but it adds a subtle, sweet and nutty flavor to the sauce.
Dishes You Can Create with Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used in various dishes. Here are some dishes you can create with Bechamel sauce.
Pasta
Bechamel sauce can be used as a base for pasta sauce. Simply add some grated cheese and cooked pasta to the sauce, and you have a creamy and delicious pasta dish.
Lasagna
Bechamel sauce is a key ingredient in lasagna. Layer cooked lasagna noodles with Bechamel sauce, meat sauce, and cheese, and bake in the oven for a hearty and delicious meal.
Mac and Cheese
Bechamel sauce is the base for a classic mac and cheese dish. Simply add cooked macaroni to the Bechamel sauce some grated cheese on top, and bake in the oven until bubbly and golden.
Tips for Making Perfect Bechamel Sauce
- Use a whisk to stir the sauce continuously to prevent lumps.
- Add the milk gradually to the roux, whisking continuously to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Use whole milk for a richer and creamier sauce.
- Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the sauce.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
- Cook the sauce for at least 10-15 minutes to thicken and reach the desired consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bechamel Sauce Gluten-Free?
No, Bechamel sauce is not gluten-free since it contains flour, which is a wheat-based product. However, you can use gluten-free flour to make Bechamel sauce.
Can I Use Other Types of Milk?
Yes, you can use other types of milk, such as almond milk, to make Bechamel sauce. However, whole milk is preferred for a richer and creamier sauce.
How Can I Store Bechamel Sauce?
You can store Bechamel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat the sauce on low heat, whisking continuously, until heated through.
Can I Freeze Bechamel Sauce?
Yes, you can freeze béchamel sauce, but it may affect its texture and consistency when you reheat it. When frozen and thawed, the sauce can separate or become grainy, so it’s best to take some precautions to ensure that the sauce retains its quality. Here’s how to freeze béchamel sauce:
- Let the sauce cool to room temperature.
- Transfer the sauce to a freezer-safe container with an airtight lid or a freezer bag.
- Label the container with the date of freezing.
- Place the container in the freezer.
When you’re ready to use the frozen béchamel sauce, here’s how to thaw and reheat it:
- Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight.
- Heat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until it is smooth and heated through
If the sauce looks separated or grainy, you can try blending it in a blender or food processor to make it smooth again. If it still doesn’t look right, you may need to add a little more milk or cream to help it come back together.
Can I Reheat Bechamel Sauce?
Yes, you can reheat Bechamel sauce on low heat, whisk Yes, you can reheat Bechamel sauce on low heat, whisking continuously until heated through. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add some milk to thin it out.
Conclusion
Bechamel sauce is a classic French white sauce made with butter, flour, and milk. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in various dishes, such as Goody food products pasta, lasagna, mac and cheese. Making Bechamel sauce is easy, but it requires patience and attention to detail to achieve the perfect consistency and flavor. With these tips and tricks, you can make a perfect Bechamel sauce every time and impress your guests with your culinary skills.
