Bread sauce is a traditional accompaniment to roast poultry in many parts of the world, particularly in Britain and Ireland. It is a creamy, savory sauce made from bread crumbs, milk, and various aromatics. Many people may be familiar with bread sauce, but not everyone knows what it’s made of or how to make it at home.
In this article, we will explore the origins of bread sauce, its ingredients and how to make it from scratch. We will also discuss the various ways to customize the sauce to suit your taste, including adding different spices or herbs. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this article is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the appeal of this delicious sauce and learn how to make it themselves.
A Brief History of Bread Sauce: An Old English Tradition
Bread sauce is a traditional English condiment that has been around for centuries. Its origins date back to medieval times when bread was used as a thickener in sauces. The earliest known recipe for bread sauce can be found in a cookbook from the 14th century. However, it wasn’t until the 18th century that bread sauce gained popularity as a side dish for roast meats, particularly turkey.
Bread sauce was originally made with bread soaked in milk, seasoned with spices like cloves and mace, and then strained to create a creamy sauce. In later years, cream was added to make the sauce even richer. The popularity of bread sauce waned during the 20th century, but it has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years as English cuisine experiences a revival.
Ingredients in Bread Sauce: The Essential Components for the Perfect Blend
Bread sauce is a traditional condiment that has been around since the 15th century. It is a creamy and savory sauce that is often served alongside roasted meats, particularly chicken and turkey. Bread sauce is made with a variety of ingredients that are essential to give it its distinct flavor.
The main ingredients in bread sauce include breadcrumbs, milk, onion, cloves, and bay leaves. Breadcrumbs are the base of the sauce, and they are often made from stale or leftover bread. The breadcrumbs are soaked in milk, which helps to give the sauce its rich and creamy texture. Onion, cloves, and bay leaves are used to flavor the sauce and give it a slightly sweet and aromatic taste. Other ingredients that can be added to bread sauce include cream, butter, nutmeg, and white pepper. The combination of these ingredients results in a delicious, creamy, and savory sauce that is perfect for any holiday meal.
The Best Bread for Bread Sauce: Tips for Choosing the Ideal Loaf
Choosing the right bread for bread sauce can make all the difference in the taste and texture of the final dish. For the best results, experts recommend opting for a plain white loaf that is slightly stale. Unlike fresh bread, stale bread will absorb more liquid and hold its shape better throughout cooking.
Additionally, the bread should be free of crusts as they can interfere with the smoothness of the sauce. Some popular options for bread in bread sauce include traditional farmhouse loaves, pain de mie, and even brioche for a richer flavor. Ultimately, the choice of bread will depend on personal preference, but choosing a high-quality, slightly stale white bread is a great place to start for a delicious and perfectly textured bread sauce.
How to Make Bread Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide
Bread sauce is a British delicacy that is made using breadcrumbs, milk, onion, cloves, bay leaves, and butter. To make bread sauce, start by heating the milk in a saucepan with the onion, cloves, and bay leaves. Once the milk is infused with the flavors of the spices, remove the onion, cloves, and bay leaves and add the breadcrumbs to the pan.
Stir the breadcrumbs and milk together until the mixture thickens. Once the mixture has thickened, add butter, salt, and pepper to taste. Continue stirring the mixture until it becomes creamy and smooth. Finally, remove the pot from heat and let the bread sauce rest for a few minutes before serving. Bread sauce can be served with roast chicken, turkey, or any dish where a creamy condiment is needed to enhance the flavors. By following these simple steps, you can make your own delicious bread sauce in no time.
Variations on a Classic: Creative Ways to Add Flavor to Your Bread Sauce
Bread sauce is a traditional English condiment that is made from bread, milk, butter, and various spices. This classic sauce is a staple at Christmas dinners and often accompanies roasted meat and poultry dishes. However, there are many variations on this traditional recipe that can add a burst of flavor and personality to your sauce.
One creative way to add depth to your bread sauce is to incorporate different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage. These earthy herbs pair well with poultry dishes and can add a savory dimension to the sauce. Another popular addition is grated cheese, which can make the sauce creamy and flavorful. Other ingredients, such as cloves, nutmeg, or even a splash of white wine, can also elevate the taste and aroma of the sauce. With a little experimentation, you can create a bread sauce that perfectly complements your dish and impresses your guests.
Serving Suggestions: Pairing Bread Sauce with Meat, Poultry, and Vegetables
Bread sauce is a creamy condiment that complements meats, poultry and vegetables alike. Made from stale bread, milk, butter, and a blend of spices, it has a rich and comforting taste that makes it a versatile addition to any meal.
For meat lovers, bread sauce pairs beautifully with roast beef, pork, lamb, and game meats. Serve it alongside these meats to add a depth of flavor and texture to your meal. Bread sauce also pairs perfectly with roast chicken or turkey, and is a popular accompaniment during Christmas dinners and other festive occasions. For vegetarians, bread sauce can be served with roasted vegetables, like brussels sprouts, carrots, and parsnips, to add a creamy and comforting element to the dish. Overall, bread sauce is a great condiment to experiment with, as it can add a new dimension of flavor to your favorite foods.
Bread Sauce vs. Cranberry Sauce: Which One to Serve with Your Holiday Meal?
When it comes to holiday meals, the choice of sauce can add an extra layer of flavor to your dishes. Bread sauce and cranberry sauce are two popular options that are often served with mains such as turkey or chicken. While both sauces are delicious in their own way, they have distinct differences that can affect your choice of pairing.
Bread sauce is traditionally made with bread crumbs, milk, onions, butter, and spices such as cloves and nutmeg. It has a creamy texture and a subtle flavor that complements roasted meats, especially game birds such as pheasant or quail. Cranberry sauce, on the other hand, is a tangy condiment that is made with fresh or dried cranberries, sugar, orange zest, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves. It adds a pop of color and acidity to your plate and can balance out rich or fatty foods. Ultimately, the choice between bread sauce and cranberry sauce depends on your personal preference and the flavors you are looking to enhance on your holiday table.
The Bottom Line
Bread sauce is a traditional staple at British holiday dinners, especially during Christmas time. The creamy and fragrant sauce pairs excellently with roasted turkey or chicken, making it a beloved side dish.
Although the ingredients for bread sauce are quite simple, it requires a little bit of patience and attention to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. Using stale bread, an onion stuck with cloves, and a combination of whole milk and cream, the bread sauce is simmered on low heat until it thickens. Optional seasonings such as bay leaf, nutmeg, or white pepper can be added for additional flavors. Overall, this sauce is an easy and delicious way to elevate any holiday meal.