diff --git a/food_related/roux.md b/food_related/roux.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..8461044 --- /dev/null +++ b/food_related/roux.md @@ -0,0 +1,75 @@ +# Basic Butter Roux Recipe + +## Ingredients: +- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter +- 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour + +## Instructions: + +1. Melt butter: + - Place butter in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. + - Allow it to melt completely, but don't let it brown. + +2. Add flour: + - Once butter is melted, add all the flour at once. + - Immediately start whisking to combine. + +3. Cook the roux: + - Whisk constantly to prevent burning. + - Cook for about 3-5 minutes for a white roux. + - For blonde roux, cook for 5-10 minutes until it smells slightly nutty. + - For brown roux, cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently. + +4. Check consistency: + - The mixture should be smooth and free of lumps. + - It should have a paste-like consistency. + +5. Use or store: + - Use immediately in your recipe, or + - Let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. + +## Notes: +- Keep a close eye on the roux as it cooks to prevent burning. +- The darker the roux, the nuttier the flavor but the less thickening power it has. +- This recipe makes about 1 cup of roux, enough to thicken 4-6 cups of liquid. + +--- + +# Creamy Cheese Sauce Recipe + +## Ingredients: +- 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter +- 3 tablespoons (23g) all-purpose flour +- 2 cups (480ml) whole milk, warmed +- 2 cups (8 oz / 226g) shredded cheese (e.g., sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or a mix) +- 1/4 teaspoon salt +- 1/8 teaspoon white pepper +- Pinch of nutmeg (optional) + +## Instructions: + +1. Make the roux: + - Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. + - Once melted, add flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until smooth and bubbling slightly. This is your white roux. + +2. Create the béchamel: + - Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. + - Continue cooking and whisking until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon (about 3-5 minutes). + +3. Add cheese and seasonings: + - Reduce heat to low. + - Add shredded cheese in small handfuls, stirring until each addition is fully melted before adding more. + - Stir in salt, white pepper, and nutmeg (if using). + +4. Final touches: + - Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. + - If the sauce is too thick, whisk in a little more warm milk. + - If too thin, simmer gently while stirring until it reaches desired consistency. + +5. Serve: + - Use immediately, or keep warm over very low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming. + +## Notes: +- For best results, shred your own cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the sauce's smoothness. +- This recipe yields about 3 cups of cheese sauce. +- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore consistency. \ No newline at end of file