How to Make Brown Sauce Dressing Salad: A Family Favorite Recipe

Brown sauce dressing, with its rich history and savory depth, brings a touch of elegance to any salad. This dressing, often found gracing steakhouse tables, is easier to recreate at home than you might think! This recipe will guide you through crafting a homemade brown sauce dressing that will impress your family and leave them craving seconds.

A Taste of History and a Symphony of Flavors

Brown sauce, often called “espagnole” in classic French cuisine, has a long and fascinating history dating back centuries. Its journey through kitchens worldwide has led to many variations, each bearing unique regional twists. The version we’ll be making today takes inspiration from American steakhouse traditions, focusing on a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.

Ingredients for Brown Sauce Dressing Salad

For the dressing:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the salad:

• 6 cups mixed greens (such as romaine, spinach, arugula)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, toasted

Brown Sauce Dressing Ingredients

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Storage container

Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness

1. Create the roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in the flour, stirring constantly until a smooth paste forms. This mixture, known as a roux, will be the base of your sauce.
2. Build the Flavor: Slowly whisk in the beef broth, ensuring no lumps form. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce thickens. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Cool and Store: Remove the sauce from heat and allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a storage container. The dressing will thicken as it cools.

Making the Salad

1. Prepare Your Greens: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
2. Toast the Walnuts: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped walnuts for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned, shaking the pan occasionally to ensure even toasting. Set aside to cool.
3. Assemble and Enjoy: Drizzle the desired amount of brown sauce dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine. Top with crumbled blue cheese and toasted walnuts.

Brown Sauce Dressing Salad Plated

Tips and Tricks from a Seasoned Salad Maker

• Broth Variation: While beef broth is traditional, feel free to experiment with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
• Sweet and Tangy Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sugar and Dijon mustard to your liking. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
• Make it Ahead: This dressing can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
• Dressing Versatility: This brown sauce dressing isn’t just for salads! Use it as a marinade for steak or chicken, or as a dipping sauce for fries.

FAQs: Your Brown Sauce Dressing Questions Answered

Can I use store-bought brown sauce instead of making my own?

While homemade is always best, you can use store-bought brown sauce in a pinch. Choose a high-quality brand with minimal added sugar and preservatives.

What other toppings can I add to my salad?

Get creative! Grilled chicken or steak, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, bacon bits, and dried cranberries would all be delicious additions.

How long will the dressing last in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, the brown sauce dressing will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Ready to Impress Your Family?

This brown sauce dressing salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s a reminder that even the most classic dishes can be easily recreated in the comfort of your own home. So gather your ingredients, put on your chef’s hat (figuratively, of course), and prepare to wow your family with a salad that’s bursting with flavor and history. For more delicious salad dressing recipes, check out our guide on How to Make Miso Dressing Salad. Happy cooking!