Bechamel Sauce

Bechamel sauce is used a lot in Italian cooking

Bechamel sauce (also known as "white sauce") is used a lot in Italian cooking which is why I have included it here. Knowing how to make Bechamel sauce is useful as it is also used in other countrie's cuisine. I like to use Bechamel sauce in the polenta al forno recipe. Try it for yourself and enjoy!

Makes: 3 cups

Cooking Time: 25 minutes (approx)

Ingredients:

6 tbsp butter
8 tbsp flour (plain)
4 cups whole milk
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated)
1 bay leaf (fresh)

Method:

1. Place a medium saucepan over a medium heat.

2. Add the butter.

3. Once the butter has melted add the flour.

4. Stir the flour and butter mixture briskly until smooth.

5. Reduce the heat to a low setting.

6. Over the low heat, cook the mixture for about 7 minutes or until it turns a light, golden colour.

7. Meanwhile, put the milk into another saucepan.

8. Add the bay leaf.

9. Heat the milk until just about to boil.

10. Add the hot milk to the butter mixture a little at a time, whisking continuously until very smooth.

11. Bring to a boil.

12. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring constantly.

13. Remove from heat.

14. Season with salt and nutmeg.

15. Set aside until ready to use.

Locate more traditional Italian Food recipes here

To discover more about Italian food visit the Italian Traditional Food webpage