Béchamel Sauce

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Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • Salt to taste
  • White pepper to taste
  • Pinch of nutmeg optional

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients:

  • Measure out all the ingredients before starting, as the sauce comes together quickly.

Melt Butter:

  • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Be careful not to let it brown.

Add Flour:

  • Once the butter is melted, add the flour.
  • Whisk continuously to create a smooth paste (roux).
  • Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw taste of the flour, but do not let it brown.

Slowly Add Milk:

  • Gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
  • Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth.

Simmer and Season:

  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.
  • Allow it to simmer until it thickens, usually 5-10 minutes.

Season:

  • Season the sauce with salt, white pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if desired.
  • Adjust the seasonings to taste.

Finish:

  • Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, remove it from heat.
  • It should coat the back of a spoon.

Serve or Use:

  • Use the Béchamel sauce immediately in your recipe or let it cool if preparing in advance.
  • If it thickens upon cooling, you can gently reheat it and add a bit more milk to reach the desired consistency.
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Course Sauce