Creamy White Sauce
Creamy White Sauce Recipe from France with Unbleached Flour and Butter
Introduction
Creamy white sauce is a versatile and delicious sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to vegetables to meats. It adds a rich and creamy texture to any dish and is a staple in many kitchens around the world.
History
The origins of white sauce can be traced back to French cuisine, where it is known as "sauce béchamel." It is one of the five mother sauces in classical French cooking and is made by thickening milk with a roux (a mixture of flour and butter). Over time, variations of white sauce have been created in different cultures, each with its own unique ingredients and flavors.
Ingredients
Recipe default
- 0.25 cup of white sauce mix
- 1 cup of milk
Mix Recipe
- 2 cups of instant dry milk
- 1 cup of unbleached flour
- 2 tsp of salt
- 1 cup of butter
How to prepare
- In a large bowl, combine dry milk, flour, and salt. Mix well.
- Using a pastry blender, cut in butter until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
- Combine the mixture and milk in a small saucepan and cook over low heat until smooth.
- Season with pepper, herbs, and spices of your choice.
Variations
- Add grated cheese for a cheesy white sauce.
- Stir in cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
- Mix in sautéed mushrooms or onions for added depth.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the roux (butter and flour mixture) over low heat to prevent it from burning.
- Whisk constantly while adding the milk to prevent lumps from forming.
- Season the sauce with herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy white sauce can be served over pasta, vegetables, chicken, or fish. It can also be used as a base for casseroles or soups.
Cooking Techniques
Use a whisk to ensure a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Cook the sauce over low heat to prevent it from curdling.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use whole milk instead of skim milk for a richer sauce.
- Substitute olive oil for butter for a lighter version.
Make Ahead Tips
White sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. - Serve in a decorative gravy boat for an elegant touch.
Pairing Recommendations
Serve creamy white sauce with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, or baked fish.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a light beer.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover white sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
- Approximately 200 calories per serving
Carbohydrates
- White sauce mix: 6g
- Milk: 12g
- Unbleached flour: 22g
- Butter: 0g
Fats
- White sauce mix: 0g
- Milk: 8g
- Unbleached flour: 0g
- Butter: 92g
Proteins
- White sauce mix: 1g
- Milk: 8g
- Unbleached flour: 3g
- Butter: 0g
Vitamins and minerals
White sauce mix: Vitamin D, Calcium
- Milk: Vitamin D, Calcium
- Unbleached flour: Iron, Folate
- Butter: Vitamin A, Vitamin E
Alergens
Contains dairy (milk) and gluten (flour)
Summary
Creamy white sauce is a rich and flavorful sauce that is high in fats and carbohydrates. It provides essential nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, and iron.
Summary
Creamy white sauce is a classic and versatile sauce that adds richness and flavor to a variety of dishes. With a few simple ingredients and cooking techniques, you can create a delicious sauce that will elevate any meal.
How did I get this recipe?
I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Creamy White Sauce. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. Martha was known for her delicious homemade dishes, and I always looked forward to trying out her new recipes.
As we chatted over cups of tea, Martha suddenly disappeared into her pantry and emerged with a dusty old cookbook. She flipped through the pages with a twinkle in her eye and landed on a worn-out recipe for Creamy White Sauce. "This is my go-to sauce for pasta, chicken, and vegetables," she declared. "It's simple, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser."
I watched intently as Martha gathered the ingredients and began to whisk the butter, flour, and milk together in a saucepan. The kitchen filled with the fragrant aroma of nutmeg and white pepper as the sauce thickened to a smooth, velvety consistency. Martha poured the sauce over a plate of steamed broccoli and topped it with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. I took a bite and was instantly transported to a culinary paradise.
From that moment on, I was determined to master Martha's Creamy White Sauce recipe. I asked her for a copy of the recipe, and she graciously wrote it down for me on a stained index card. I treasured that card like a precious heirloom and vowed to make the sauce for my family and friends.
Over the years, I have made Martha's Creamy White Sauce countless times, experimenting with different variations and adding my own twist to the recipe. I have shared the sauce with neighbors, co-workers, and even strangers who have become fast friends after a taste of its creamy goodness.
The secret to a perfect Creamy White Sauce, I have learned, lies in the quality of the ingredients and the love and care you put into making it. I always use the freshest butter, whole milk, and a touch of nutmeg and white pepper to enhance the flavors. I whisk the sauce slowly and patiently, allowing it to thicken and develop its rich texture.
One of my favorite memories of making Creamy White Sauce was when my grandchildren came over for a visit. They watched in awe as I stirred the sauce on the stovetop, the steam rising in wisps of fragrant delight. "What's that, Grandma?" they asked, pointing to the bubbling pot. "It's a special sauce that makes everything taste better," I replied with a wink.
I showed them how to pour the sauce over a plate of pasta, sprinkle it with fresh herbs, and serve it with a side of garlic bread. Their eyes widened in amazement as they took their first bite, savoring the creamy richness and comforting flavors. "This is the best sauce ever, Grandma!" they exclaimed, their little faces beaming with joy.
As I grow older, I find solace and joy in making Martha's Creamy White Sauce for my loved ones. It is a reminder of the bond we share through food and the memories we create around the dining table. Each time I make the sauce, I am transported back to Martha's kitchen, where the aroma of nutmeg and white pepper lingers in the air, and the warmth of friendship fills my heart.
I am grateful for the simple pleasures of cooking and sharing a delicious meal with those I hold dear. Martha's Creamy White Sauce is more than just a recipe—it is a legacy of love and tradition that I will pass down to future generations. And with every whisk of the saucepan, I honor the culinary journey that has brought me to this moment of culinary bliss.