White roux is a combination of flour and butter that can be added to soups, stews, sauces, and many other dishes to give them a rich, velvety texture. The process of making white roux is simple and straightforward. It only requires a few ingredients and some patience.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make white roux at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
Instructions:
Step 1: Melt the butter
Start by melting the butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan or a skillet over low heat. Make sure the butter melts completely and doesn’t burn. If the heat is too high, the butter will brown, and you’ll end up with brown roux instead of white.
Step 2: Add the flour
Once the butter has melted, add the flour to the pan and whisk the mixture thoroughly until it forms a paste. Keep whisking the mixture continuously to prevent any lumps from forming.
Step 3: Cook the Roux
Increase the heat to medium and cook the roux for about 2-3 minutes until it turns light golden in color. Keep stirring constantly to prevent it from burning. The longer you cook the roux, the darker it will become.
Step 4: Cool the Roux
Once you have achieved the desired color of the roux, take it off the heat and let it cool down for a few minutes. Be careful not to let it cool down completely, or it will harden, making it difficult to work with.
Step 5: Use the Roux
Now that your white roux is ready, you can use it to make sauces, soups, stews, and other dishes. It can be used as a thickener for any liquid-based dish, from mac and cheese to chicken pot pie.
Tip: It’s essential to use white roux immediately after making it. If left to sit for too long, it can start to break down and lose its thickening power.
Conclusion
In conclusion, white roux is a basic that can add flavor and texture to your dishes. While it may seem simple, the process of making white roux requires patience and attention to detail. With a little practice, you’ll be able to master the art of making white roux and take your cooking to the next level. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and you’ll be amazed at how it transforms your dishes.