Bechamel sauce is a classic French sauce that is made by combining butter, flour, and milk. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in many dishes. The sauce is also known as white sauce.
Bechamel sauce is commonly used as a base for many recipes, such as macaroni and cheese, lasagna, and gratins. It is also used in many traditional French dishes like quiches and soufflés. In this article, we will explore some of the dishes that use bechamel sauce as part of their recipe and how to make the sauce from scratch.
The Origins of Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce is a classic French white sauce that was first introduced in the late 17th century by Marquis Louis de Bechamel, who served as the chief steward for King Louis XIV. The sauce is made by whisking together flour and butter to create a roux, which is then cooked with milk and a variety of savory seasonings like salt, black pepper, nutmeg, or bay leaves. The result is a beautifully creamy base that can be used in a variety of dishes.
One of the reasons that bechamel sauce became so popular in French cuisine is that it provided a rich and velvety mouthfeel to dishes that would otherwise be quite simple. From lasagne and macaroni and cheese to moussaka and gratins, bechamel sauce is an essential ingredient in countless dishes that are enjoyed around the world today. Despite its French origins, bechamel sauce is a versatile preparation that can be adapted to just about any culinary tradition.
Tips and Tricks for Making Perfect Bechamel
Making a perfect béchamel sauce can seem intimidating, but with a few tips and tricks, it’s easier than you might think. Firstly, use cold milk when making your roux, as this will prevent lumps from forming. Slowly add the milk to the roux, whisking constantly, and don’t be afraid to take your time. Rushing this step can cause lumps to form, ruining your sauce.
Another important tip is to keep your pan on low heat and continuously stir the sauce until it thickens. This will also prevent lumps from forming and ensure that your sauce is perfectly smooth. If you do end up with a lumpy sauce, don’t panic – simply strain it through a fine-mesh sieve. Lastly, don’t forget to season your sauce with salt and white pepper to taste once it’s finished cooking. Follow these tips and tricks for a perfect béchamel sauce every time.
Classic Recipes That Feature Bechamel Sauce
Bechamel sauce is a classic French sauce that has been used in many dishes for centuries. This versatile sauce can be used as the base for many different recipes, from creamed vegetables to macaroni and cheese. Some classic recipes that feature bechamel sauce include lasagna, scalloped potatoes, and soufflés.
Lasagna is one of the most well-known dishes that feature bechamel sauce. The sauce is layered between the cheese, meat, and pasta layers to add a creamy texture to the dish. Scalloped potatoes are another classic recipe that features bechamel sauce. The sauce is poured over thinly sliced potatoes and baked in the oven until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Finally, soufflés also feature bechamel sauce as the base. This light and fluffy dish is perfect for special occasions and can be made with a variety of fillings, such as cheese or asparagus.
Modern Twists on Traditional Bechamel-Based Dishes
Bechamel sauce has been around for centuries and has been used in many traditional dishes, such as lasagna, macaroni and cheese, and moussaka. However, with the rise of modern cooking, chefs have experimented with this classic base to create new and exciting dishes.
One example of a modern twist on a traditional bechamel dish is a seafood lasagna. Instead of using ground beef or sausage, this dish incorporates shrimp, scallops, and crab meat into the creamy sauce. Another example is a butternut squash mac and cheese, where the bechamel is flavored with pureed squash and topped with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish. These new takes on classic dishes add depth and flavor and are perfect for those looking to expand their culinary horizons.
Vegetarian and Vegan Bechamel Alternatives
Vegetarian and vegan diets follow strict guidelines about the foods they eat, including sauces and bases used in recipes. Traditional Bechamel sauce is made with milk and butter, which makes it incompatible with either of those diets. However, it is possible to create a delicious and creamy Bechamel sauce alternative without using any animal products. Vegan Bechamel sauce is typically made with plant-based milk such as soy milk, almond milk, or oat milk, and vegan butter or oil in place of dairy butter.
For a vegetarian option, some recipes recommend using vegetable broth instead of milk and then adding flour and butter or oil. Others use alternatives like cashew cream to achieve a smooth and silky texture similar to traditional Bechamel sauce. These alternatives are a great way to add a creamy and rich flavor to any dish without compromising on dietary restrictions set forth in a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.
Bechamel Sauce in International Cuisines
Bechamel sauce is not just limited to French cuisine but has been incorporated into several international foods. In Italy, it is commonly used in lasagna and baked ziti. Aussies and British, on the other hand, love to add bechamel sauce in their pies and pastries like chicken pot pie, curry pie, and fish pie.
In Greece, the bechamel sauce is essential in making moussaka, a popular dish made of layers of eggplant, minced beef, and potatoes. In the Middle East, bechamel is used as a filling for a variety of savory pastries like Fatayer, which is a popular Lebanese savory pastry made of spinach and feta cheese. Further, in the Indian subcontinent, bechamel sauce is commonly used in their version of Shepherd’s pie called Keema Matar, where it is used to add creaminess to the mashed potato topping. The versatility of this sauce has made it a global favorite and a must-have in any cook’s kitchen.
Pairing Wines with Your Bechamel-Based Dishes.
Pairing wines with Bechamel-based dishes requires a bit of thought, as the creamy, rich sauce can easily overpower mild wines. But when done right, it can make for a delicious meal pairing. For white wines, Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio are great choices, particularly if the dish contains seafood or white meats. The acidity in these wines can help cut through the richness of the sauce.
Red wines with lighter fruit flavors, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais, can also be paired successfully with Bechamel-based dishes that feature red meats. If you’re serving a decadent pasta dish with Bechamel, an Italian red wine, such as Chianti Classico or Barolo, can be a great match. The tannins in these wines will help to balance out the creaminess of the sauce. As always, it’s best to experiment with a few different wine pairings to see what works best with your particular meal.
The Bottom Line
Bechamel sauce is one of the most essential sauces in French cuisine and has been widely used in many other parts of the world. It is easy to make and versatile, providing a creamy and smooth texture to many dishes. From the classic lasagne and moussaka to the fondue and croque-monsieur sandwich, Bechamel sauce can enhance the flavor, texture, and presentation of any dish it is used in.
Moreover, Bechamel sauce has many variations that allow endless possibilities for culinary creativity. Many cooks add their own personal touch to Bechamel sauce by mixing different herbs, spices and cheeses for a more dynamic flavor. Whether you are an experienced chef or just learning to cook, Bechamel sauce is an essential component that should be mastered to step up your cooking game.