This creamy and versatile white sauce is a staple recipe for many halal dishes. Perfect for dipping, drizzling, or smothering, it elevates everything from vegetables and fries to wraps and pizzas. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients readily available in most kitchens.
Ingredients:
2 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Be careful not to let it brown.
2. Whisk in the flour: Once the butter is melted, whisk in the flour until it forms a smooth paste. This is called a roux and it’s the base for thickening the sauce.
3. Cook the roux: Cook the roux for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually whisk in the milk: Slowly whisk in the milk, a little at a time, until fully incorporated. Make sure there are no lumps.
5. Bring to a simmer: Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a simmer. The sauce will start to thicken.
6. Whisk in remaining ingredients: Once simmering, whisk in the chicken broth, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and nutmeg (if using).
7. Season and simmer: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce reaches desired consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding a little more milk for a thinner sauce or simmering for a longer time for a thicker consistency.
8. Serve and enjoy! Your delicious white sauce is ready! Serve it hot over your favorite dishes or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
(Please note that these are approximate values and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.)
Calories: 150
Conclusion
This halal white sauce is a fantastic addition to any meal. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and incredibly versatile. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this creamy sauce and elevate your dishes to a whole new level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of milk? Absolutely! You can substitute the whole milk with any halal milk alternative you prefer, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Just be aware that the taste and texture may vary slightly depending on the milk you choose.
2. Can I make this sauce vegan? Yes, you can easily make a vegan version of this sauce by using a plant-based butter alternative and vegetable broth.
3. How can I make the sauce thicker? If your sauce is too thin, simply simmer it for a few minutes longer. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cooks. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp of water) and whisk it into the simmering sauce until thickened.
4. How can I make the sauce thinner? If your sauce is too thick, simply whisk in a little more milk until it reaches your desired consistency.
5. What other spices can I add to the sauce? Feel free to experiment with different spices to personalize the flavor of your white sauce. Some great options include paprika, cayenne pepper, Italian seasoning, or a pinch of curry powder.
With these tips and tricks, you can easily customize this white sauce recipe to fit your preferences and dietary needs. Enjoy!
