Almond Velouté Sauce Recipe
From: LoveWithRecipes.com
Description:
This creamy, rich Almond Velouté Sauce is the perfect complement to a variety of dishes, from tender chicken to fresh vegetables. With a silky texture and a subtle hint of ground nutmeg, it’s a sauce that is sure to elevate your meal. Best of all, it comes together quickly, making it a great option for those busy evenings or special occasions where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it generously over your favorite dish and savor the blend of smoothness and flavor.
Ingredients & Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Margarine | 2 tablespoons |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| All-purpose flour | 1 tablespoon |
| Chicken broth | 1/4 cup |
| Salt | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/8 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 31.5 kcal |
| Fat | 2.7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 100.7 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1.2 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugars | 0.2 g |
| Protein | 0.9 g |
Servings: 16
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Instructions:
-
Melt the margarine and butter:
Begin by heating the margarine and butter together in a 1 1/2-quart saucepan over medium heat. The blend of these two fats adds a unique richness to the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure that both fats melt evenly. -
Add the flour to form a roux:
Once the fats have melted completely, stir in the all-purpose flour. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly. The goal here is to create a smooth, bubbly mixture, known as a roux. This roux will help thicken your sauce and give it that velvety consistency. Continue stirring until the mixture is uniform, then remove the saucepan from heat to prevent overcooking. -
Gradually add chicken broth:
With the roux off the heat, begin to slowly stir in the chicken broth. Adding it gradually helps you avoid lumps and ensures a smooth sauce. Once the broth is fully incorporated, return the saucepan to medium heat and continue stirring. -
Bring to a boil:
Heat the mixture until it begins to boil, all the while stirring constantly. Boiling allows the sauce to thicken properly. Once it reaches a boil, keep stirring for about 1 minute to achieve the desired consistency. This will make the sauce smooth and thick, perfect for coating your food. -
Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg:
After boiling the sauce for a minute, it’s time to season it. Add the salt, pepper, and ground nutmeg to the saucepan, stirring well to blend the spices into the velvety base. The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth and depth that complements the rich, creamy texture of the sauce. -
Finish with almonds (optional):
For an extra layer of flavor and texture, stir in finely chopped almonds just before serving. The almonds add a slight crunch and a delicate nutty taste, elevating the sauce further. -
Serve and enjoy:
Your Almond Velouté Sauce is now ready to serve! Pour it over grilled chicken, steamed vegetables, or any dish that could use a rich, creamy finish. This sauce works particularly well with dishes that have subtle flavors, as it adds both texture and a delicate richness without overpowering the main ingredients.
Tips for Success:
- Consistency Control: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a little longer after it comes to a boil. For a thinner sauce, you can add a little more broth to the mixture until you reach your desired texture.
- Nutmeg Substitution: If you’re not a fan of nutmeg, you can substitute it with a pinch of thyme or rosemary to add a different layer of flavor.
- Almonds: While the almonds are optional, they add a lovely crunch and a hint of nuttiness. If you prefer a smoother sauce, simply skip the almonds or use ground almonds for a subtler texture.
Recipe Notes:
- Pairing Suggestions: Almond Velouté Sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over roasted or grilled chicken, turkey, pork, or even fish. It’s also an excellent choice for drizzling over roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.
- Storing: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick.
By following this recipe, you’ll be able to create a luxurious, restaurant-quality sauce in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire.
