Lemon Cream Sauce Recipe: A Culinary Delight
Introduction
Lemon cream sauce, also known as beurre noisette, is a delightful and versatile sauce that can elevate any dish to new heights. Made with simple ingredients, this sauce is a must-have for any home chef looking to impress their guests. In this article, we will explore the history, preparation, and uses of lemon cream sauce, providing you with all the information you need to master this culinary gem.
The History of Lemon Cream Sauce
Lemon cream sauce has its origins in French cuisine, where it is known as sauce au beurre noisette. The name beurre noisette translates to browned butter in English, which is the key ingredient in this sauce. The sauce was first created in the 19th century and has since become a staple in French cuisine, particularly in dishes such as chicken piccata and lemon sole.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make lemon cream sauce, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 2 cups (480ml) whole milk
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
The equipment you will need includes:
– A saucepan
– A whisk
– A wooden spoon
– A fine-mesh sieve
Preparation
1. Melt the Butter: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to brown, but be careful not to burn it. Once the butter has reached a nutty brown color, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
2. Make a Roux: In the same saucepan, add the flour and whisk it continuously for about 2 minutes. This will create a roux, which is a mixture of flour and fat that is the base for many sauces.
3. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually add the milk and cream to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add Lemon Juice and Zest: Once the sauce has thickened, remove it from the heat. Stir in the lemon juice and zest, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Strain the Sauce: Pour the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove any lumps. Return the sauce to the saucepan and heat it over low heat until it is ready to serve.
Uses of Lemon Cream Sauce
Lemon cream sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some popular uses:
– Chicken Piccata: Lemon cream sauce is the perfect complement to chicken piccata, adding a tangy and creamy flavor to the dish.
– Lemon Sole: Lemon cream sauce is a classic sauce for lemon sole, providing a rich and flavorful coating for the delicate fish.
– Pasta: Lemon cream sauce can be used as a sauce for pasta dishes, adding a refreshing and zesty flavor to the meal.
– Vegetables: Lemon cream sauce can also be used as a sauce for vegetables, such as asparagus or green beans, adding a touch of elegance to any side dish.
Tips and Tricks
– Be Patient: Making lemon cream sauce requires patience and attention to detail. Take your time and follow the recipe carefully to ensure the best results.
– Use Fresh Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients will greatly affect the flavor of the sauce. Use fresh lemon juice and zest, and ensure the butter and flour are of high quality.
– Strain the Sauce: Straining the sauce will remove any lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
Conclusion
Lemon cream sauce is a delightful and versatile sauce that can elevate any dish to new heights. With its rich and tangy flavor, it is a must-have for any home chef looking to impress their guests. By following this recipe and using fresh ingredients, you can easily create a delicious lemon cream sauce that will be the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
