Bechamel sauce, also known as white sauce, is a versatile and classic sauce that is a staple in many cuisines around the world. Its creamy texture and subtle flavors make it a perfect base for a variety of dishes, from lasagna to moussaka, and beyond. In this article, we will delve into the world of bechamel sauce, exploring its origins, flavors, uses, and recipes.
Bechamel Sauce Meaning
Bechamel sauce is a French sauce made from a roux (a mixture of flour and fat) and milk. It is one of the five mother sauces in French cuisine, along with hollandaise, veloute, espagnole, and tomato sauce. The sauce is named after Louis de Bechamel, a French steward to King Louis XIV, who is credited with popularizing it in the 17th century.
What Does Bechamel Sauce Taste Like?
Bechamel sauce has a creamy and velvety texture with a subtle, mild flavor. The richness of the milk and the nuttiness of the roux come together to create a smooth and comforting sauce. It serves as a blank canvas that can be flavored with herbs, spices, cheese, or other ingredients to suit a variety of dishes.
Bechamel Sauce for Moussaka
One popular dish that features bechamel sauce is moussaka, a traditional Greek casserole made with layers of eggplant, minced meat, and a rich tomato sauce. The creamy bechamel sauce is spread on top of the dish before baking, creating a golden and delicious crust that adds a luxurious touch to the dish.
James Martin Bechamel Sauce Recipe
Renowned chef James Martin has his own take on the classic bechamel sauce. His recipe calls for butter, flour, and milk, seasoned with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. The key to a successful bechamel sauce, according to Martin, is to cook the roux until it turns a pale golden color before adding the milk gradually to create a smooth texture.
Authentic Bechamel Sauce Recipe
For those looking to make an authentic bechamel sauce at home, the key is to use equal parts of butter and flour to create the roux, and to cook it until it reaches a smooth consistency. Gradually add warm milk to the roux, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste, and simmer until it thickens to the desired consistency.
Bechamel Sauce vs Alfredo Sauce
While both bechamel sauce and Alfredo sauce are creamy white sauces, they differ in their ingredients and flavors. Bechamel sauce is made with a roux and milk, while Alfredo sauce is made with butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bechamel sauce has a milder flavor and is often used as a base for other sauces or dishes, while Alfredo sauce is richer and more decadent.
Bechamel Sauce Used For
Bechamel sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, both savory and sweet. It is commonly used in lasagna, macaroni and cheese, gratins, croquettes, and soufflés. The sauce can also be flavored with cheese, herbs, or spices to create a unique twist on classic dishes.
Store Bought Bechamel Sauce
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