How to Make Soubise Sauce: A Creamy, Flavorful Addition to Any Meal

Soubise sauce – it might sound fancy, but don’t let the name intimidate you! This classic French sauce is simply a beautiful marriage of caramelized onions, creamy béchamel, and a touch of nutmeg. The result? A velvety smooth, subtly sweet, and utterly irresistible sauce that elevates everything from roasted meats and vegetables to simple sandwiches and savory tarts.

Delving into the History and Versatility of Soubise Sauce

The history of Soubise sauce is as rich and flavorful as the sauce itself. Rumored to be a favorite of Princess Marie Sophie de Soubise in the 18th century, this sauce has graced the tables of French nobility and continues to be celebrated in modern kitchens around the world. And for good reason! Soubise sauce is incredibly versatile. Its delicate sweetness perfectly complements a wide range of dishes, making it a true culinary chameleon.

Creating Your Own Soubise Sauce: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to impress your family and friends with your culinary prowess? Follow this easy-to-follow recipe to create your own batch of homemade Soubise sauce:

Ingredients:

For the Caramelized Onions:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk, warmed
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground white pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Optional Garnishes:

• Freshly chopped chives
• Croutons
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Equipment:

• Large skillet or Dutch oven
• Whisk
• Medium saucepan

Instructions:

1. Caramelize the Onions:

This step requires patience, but trust me, it’s worth it! The slow caramelization of the onions is what gives Soubise sauce its signature sweetness and depth of flavor.

1. Melt butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they become soft and translucent, about 10 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low, season with salt and pepper, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn a deep golden brown and caramelized, about 45-60 minutes. Don’t rush this process! Low and slow is the key to achieving perfect caramelization.

2. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:

While the onions are caramelizing, prepare your béchamel sauce. This classic French sauce serves as the creamy base for our Soubise.

1. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes. This step is called making a roux, and it helps to thicken the sauce.
3. Gradually whisk in the warmed milk, ensuring there are no lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
5. Season with salt, white pepper, and nutmeg.

3. Combine and Blend:

Now it’s time to bring our caramelized onions and béchamel sauce together to create the magic that is Soubise sauce.

1. Add the caramelized onions to the béchamel sauce.
2. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, carefully blend the mixture until smooth. If using a regular blender, be sure to let the mixture cool slightly before blending and vent the lid to prevent pressure buildup.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Soubise Sauce:

• For a richer flavor: Use a combination of butter and olive oil for caramelizing the onions.
• Short on time? You can speed up the caramelization process by adding a teaspoon of sugar to the onions along with the salt and pepper.
• Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk at a time until the desired consistency is reached. If it’s too thin, simmer for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
• Get creative with flavor: Experiment with different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

Serving and Enjoying Your Soubise Sauce:

Soubise sauce is incredibly versatile and can be served hot or cold.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Serve it as a decadent topping for grilled steak, roasted chicken, or fish.
• Spoon it over roasted vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or root vegetables.
• Use it as a base for savory tarts, quiches, or gratins.
• Spread it on sandwiches or wraps for a flavorful twist.
• Pair it with potato dishes like mashed potatoes or potato gratin.

No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Soubise sauce is sure to impress!

Soubise Sauce Drizzled Over Steak

Soubise Sauce Ingredients

Storing Your Leftover Soubise Sauce:

Soubise sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Making Soubise Sauce:

Can I make Soubise sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Soubise sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat it gently before serving.

What can I substitute for whole milk in Soubise sauce?

You can use any type of milk you prefer, such as 2%, skim, or even unsweetened almond milk. Just keep in mind that the consistency and richness of the sauce may vary slightly depending on the type of milk used.

Can I freeze Soubise sauce?

While you can freeze Soubise sauce, it’s not generally recommended as the texture can sometimes separate upon thawing.

My Soubise sauce seems a bit bland. How can I fix it?

Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. A pinch of salt, pepper, or even a dash of cayenne pepper can go a long way in enhancing the flavor.

What are some other sauces similar to Soubise sauce?

If you enjoy the creamy texture and subtle sweetness of Soubise sauce, you might also enjoy exploring other classic French sauces like Mornay sauce (which is essentially Soubise sauce with cheese added) or Sauce Choron (a Béarnaise sauce variation that incorporates tomato purée).

There you have it – your guide to creating a truly spectacular Soubise sauce.

Are you ready to embrace your inner chef and whip up a batch of this classic French sauce? We bet you are!

Want to explore more delicious sauce recipes? Check out our guide on How to Make Sauce Choron, another exquisite French classic!