White Sauce Recipe

White sauce, also known as béchamel sauce, is a classic French sauce that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to vegetables to casseroles. The history of white sauce can be traced back to the 17th century, when it was first mentioned in French cooking literature. Interestingly, béchamel sauce is named after Louis de Béchamel, a financier to Louis XIV, who is credited with popularizing the sauce.

Now, let's dive into the recipe for white sauce:

Ingredients:
- 1/2 pint Milk
- 1 oz. Butter
- 1/2 oz. Flour
- Salt and Pepper

Instructions:
1. Put the butter into a small saucepan and melt it over low heat.
2. Once the butter is completely melted, add the flour to the saucepan. Mix well until the flour is fully incorporated into the butter.
3. Gradually pour in the cold milk while continuously stirring to avoid lumps from forming.
4. Continue to stir the mixture over medium heat until it reaches a boil. This should take about 2 minutes.
5. Let the sauce boil for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Remove the saucepan from the heat. The white sauce is now ready to be used.

White sauce can be enjoyed both as a sweet or savory sauce, depending on your preference. To make it sweet, simply add sugar to taste. If you prefer a savory sauce, season with salt and pepper to your liking. The white sauce can be served immediately or kept warm until ready to use.

Fun fact: In traditional French cuisine, white sauce is one of the five "mother sauces." These sauces form the basis for many other classic French sauces, including hollandaise, velouté, tomato sauce, and espagnole. The versatility of white sauce makes it a staple in the culinary world.

Similar recipe dishes that use white sauce as a base include:

1. Creamy Pasta: Cook your favorite pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, sauté vegetables such as carrots, peas, and mushrooms. Once the vegetables are cooked, add the white sauce to the pan and mix well. Pour the sauce over the cooked pasta and toss to coat. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese on top.

2. Vegetable Casserole: In a baking dish, layer cooked vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers. Pour the white sauce evenly over the vegetables and sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

3. Chicken Pot Pie: In a skillet, cook diced chicken until no longer pink. Add mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn) to the skillet and cook until heated through. Transfer the chicken and vegetables to a baking dish. Pour the white sauce over the mixture and stir to combine. Top with a layer of puff pastry or pie crust and bake at 400°F (200°C) until the crust is golden brown.

White sauce adds a creamy and comforting element to these dishes, elevating their flavors and textures. Whether you're making a classic pasta dish or experimenting with your own creations, white sauce is a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.