Cauliflower, a versatile and nutritious vegetable, really shines when accompanied by a silky white sauce. Whether you are a kitchen prince(s) or have a busy lifestyle, there are two ways to prepare this delicious sauce: the artisanal version and the quick, convenient bagged option. Let’s dive into both methods and discover which one suits you best.
Homemade white sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a pinch of nutmeg for a subtle nutty flavour
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a pan over medium-high heat. Make sure the butter does not brown.
- Add the flour to the melted butter and stir continuously for about a minute, until the mixture turns a pale yellow colour and begins to foam. This causes the flour to cook and form a roux, the base of the sauce.
- Gradually add the milk, while continuing to stir to avoid lumps. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens and all lumps disappear, this usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper and a pinch of nutmeg, if necessary.
- Serve the white sauce warm over steamed or boiled cauliflower and enjoy its creamy, heavenly flavour.
The quick option: white sauce from a sachet
Ingredients
1 bag of white sauce mix
Instructions
- Follow the instructions on the bag’s packaging. This usually involves combining the mix with milk or water and heating the mixture according to the specified time on the cooker or in the microwave.
- Stir well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper if necessary.
Which one to choose?
Making white sauce to go with cauliflower can be a satisfying experience, whether you choose the artisanal route or the quick option. The homemade version offers a deeper flavour and the ability to customise the sauce to your preferences, while the bagged option is perfect for busy days when convenience is paramount.
So, whether you are the artisan chef in the kitchen or looking for a quick fix, with these two recipes you will always have the perfect white sauce to take your cauliflower dishes to the next level. Enjoy your meal!