This is one of the most well-known and widely prepared sauces in the world. In fact, it has been a classic sauce in haute cuisine for over 300 years. It serves as the base for many recipes, both as a sauce and as a cream. With this recipe, we’ll make a light béchamel sauce that can be used in pasta dishes like cannelloni or lasagna. If you want a thicker béchamel for making croquettes or...
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Ingredients
milk2cups
butter3tbsp
flour2tbsp
salt
pepper
nutmeg
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
120.5kcal (6.02%)
Protein
3.3g (6.6%)
Carbs
5.7g (2.05%)
Sugars
5.1g (10.2%)
Healthy Fat
2.7g
Unhealthy Fat
6.2g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make Béchamel Sauce
- Step 1
Sift the flour using a sieve to ensure there are no lumps in the sauce later.
- Step 2
Heat the milk in a saucepan for about 4 minutes until it begins to boil, then set it aside.
- Step 3
In a pot, melt the butter over medium-low heat until it takes on a hazelnut color. Skim off any foam if desired.
- Step 4
Add the sifted flour to the melted butter and mix until small golden clumps form.
- Step 5
Stir the flour and butter mixture well with a wooden spoon until it forms a ball-like consistency.
- Step 6
Gradually pour the hot milk into the pot with the flour and butter mixture. Add salt, pepper to taste, and a pinch of ground nutmeg.
- Step 7
Stir continuously with a whisk for about five to six minutes over low heat until the mixture becomes smooth and free of lumps. Use a blender if needed to remove any remaining lumps.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
120.5kcal (6.02%)
Protein
3.3g (6.6%)
Carbs
5.7g (2.05%)
Sugars
5.1g (10.2%)
Healthy Fat
2.7g
Unhealthy Fat
6.2g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
Tips & Tricks
If you want a thicker béchamel sauce for croquettes or other dishes, add more flour and cook the sauce for a longer time.
Cover the sauce with plastic wrap in direct contact with its surface to prevent air from getting in if not using immediately.
FAQS
Can I make the béchamel sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Cover it with plastic wrap in direct contact with the surface to prevent air from getting in.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
To make the sauce thicker, add more flour and cook it for a longer time.
What can I use béchamel sauce for?
Béchamel sauce can be used in pasta dishes like lasagna or cannelloni, as well as a base for croquettes and other recipes.
What should I do if my sauce has lumps?
If your sauce has lumps, you can use a blender to remove them and achieve a smooth consistency.
Can I adjust the seasoning in béchamel sauce?
Yes, you can adjust the salt, pepper, and nutmeg to suit your taste.
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