Béchamel sauce (roux)
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Béchamel sauce is a classic French white sauce made from a white roux (flour and butter cooked together) and milk, often seasoned with salt, white pepper, and a hint of nutmeg. It's one of the five French mother sauces and serves as a creamy base for countless dishes like lasagna, gratins, and croquettes.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Béchamel is high in fat and calories, primarily from butter and milk, with a moderate amount of carbs from the flour and very little protein. A typical 1/2 cup serving can range from 150-250 calories, providing calcium from the milk but also a significant amount of saturated fat.
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Béchamel is a foundational pillar of French cuisine, named after Louis de Béchameil, a 17th-century French steward. Its simple, adaptable nature makes it a culinary 'blank canvas,' allowing it to be transformed into countless variations by adding cheese, herbs, or stock.