Chef's Notes Plus

All About Roux

If you’re feeling the spirit of Mardi Gras, you may be inspired to try your hand at a Cajun or Creole recipe, like gumbo or shrimp etouffee. The key to many of these flavorful, complex dishes is the roux, a cooked flour and fat mixture that thickens, colors, and flavors […]

Sauces, Dressings, and Condiments

Béchamel Sauce

Ingredients 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons vegetable oil 1/4 cup minced yellow onion 5 cups milk, warm Salt, as needed Ground black or white pepper, as needed Freshly grated nutmeg, as needed (optional) Directions In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the oil and butter. […]

Chef's Notes Plus

Culinary School: How to Make Béchamel Sauce

Béchamel is classical white sauce that is made with milk thickened with a roux. Blond roux is traditionally used, and the amount of roux will determine the sauce’s consistency.  Vegetables or aromatics are sometimes added to strengthen the flavor, but they are normally strained out after cooking to preserve the […]

Soups and Stews

Seafood Gumbo

Makes 8 servings Ingredients 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper Pinch freshly ground black pepper Pinch cayenne Pinch hot paprika Pinch dried thyme Pinch dried oregano 1 tablespoon canola oil or unsalted butter 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 1/2 cups diced onion 1 1/2 cups diced […]