When it comes to classic French sauces, Béarnaise is definitely one of the most popular ones. It’s rich, tangy, and perfect for topping grilled meats or roasted vegetables. However, sometimes it’s fun to put a twist on the classics and experiment with new flavors and ingredients. In this article, we’ll explore some creative variations of Béarnaise sauce that will add a new level of complexity and depth to your dishes.
Béarnaise with a Kick
If you’re a fan of spicy food, this Béarnaise variation is perfect for you. To make it, simply add one finely chopped jalapeño pepper to the saucepan when you’re making the Béarnaise. The jalapeño will infuse the sauce with a subtle heat that complements the tanginess of the vinegar and brightness of the herbs. Serve with grilled steak or roasted chicken for an added kick of flavor.
Garlic Béarnaise
Garlic is a natural partner to the rich flavors of Béarnaise. To make a garlic Béarnaise, finely mince 4-5 garlic cloves and add them to the saucepan with the shallots. Sauté them until they’re fragrant and have softened, then proceed with the recipe as usual. The result is a sauce that’s savory, robust, and irresistible. This variation is perfect for topping roasted vegetables or grilled meats like lamb or pork.
Lemon Béarnaise
For a refreshing take on Béarnaise, try infusing it with lemon flavor. To make lemon Béarnaise, add the zest of one lemon to the saucepan with the shallots and vinegar. Squeeze a small amount of juice into the mixture as well, and stir to combine. This variation is perfect for seafood dishes like scallops or shrimp, where the bright and tangy flavors will cut through the richness of the sauce.
Tarragon Béarnaise
Tarragon is a classic herb used in Béarnaise, but this variation takes it to the next level. To make tarragon Béarnaise, increase the amount of fresh tarragon you use in the recipe from one tablespoon to two. You can also add a teaspoon of dried tarragon if you’re using fresh herbs. This variation is perfect for topping grilled salmon or asparagus, where the anise-like flavor of tarragon pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the ingredients.
Citrus Béarnaise
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and blood oranges can add a beautiful dimension to Béarnaise sauce. To make citrus Béarnaise, add the zest of one of these fruits to the saucepan with the shallots and vinegar. Squeeze a small amount of juice into the mixture as well, and stir to combine. This variation is perfect for topping grilled chicken or pork, where the sweetness of the fruit will complement the smoky flavors of the meat.
Conclusion
Béarnaise sauce is a classic French sauce that has stood the test of time. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with new flavors and ingredients to put a twist on it. From spicy jalapeño to anise-like tarragon, each variation adds a new dimension to the sauce that will elevate your dishes to new heights. Give them a try and see which one becomes your new favorite!
Tips for Twisting up a Béarnaise Recipe
Béarnaise sauce is one of the most classic French sauces. This smooth and tangy sauce is usually paired with beef tenderloin, steak, or any grilled red meat that complements its rich taste. Though the classic Béarnaise recipe has not changed over the years, chefs around the world have started putting their spin on the dish. In this article, we have compiled some invaluable tips on how to make a twist on the Béarnaise recipe.
1. Use different herbs
One of the most prominent features of Béarnaise sauce is its delicate taste and aroma that comes from the use of tarragon herb. However, you can switch things up by using other herbs like chives, parsley, or basil in your Béarnaise recipe. This not only gives the sauce a unique taste but also pairs well with a variety of dishes like chicken, fish, and vegetables.
2. Add a new flavor to the sauce
While Béarnaise sauce is already full of flavor, you can add a twist to the recipe by incorporating new ingredients. Adding a dash of lemon juice, vinegar, or white wine can give the sauce a fresh and tangy taste. You can also use Dijon mustard, hot sauce, or garlic to add a kick to the recipe.
3. Try different butter varieties
Béarnaise sauce heavily relies on the quality and flavor of the butter. You can add a twist to the recipe by using different types of butter in your recipe. For example, you can use herb-infused or flavored butter, like garlic butter or truffle butter, to give the sauce an even more delicious flavor.
4. Experiment with the consistency of the sauce
Béarnaise sauce is known for its smooth and silky texture, but you can experiment with the consistency of the sauce by adding different ingredients or adjusting the amount of butter used. For example, you can make the sauce thicker by adding more egg yolks, or you can make it thinner by adding a dash of heavy cream or milk.
5. Use unconventional ingredients
If you are feeling adventurous, you can use unconventional ingredients in your Béarnaise sauce recipe to make it unique. Some chefs use ingredients like miso paste, soy sauce, or hoisin sauce to give the sauce an Asian flavor. You can also use smoked paprika, chipotle chili powder, or curry powder to add a smoky or spicy taste to the sauce.
6. Use different acids instead of vinegar
While vinegar is a staple in Béarnaise sauce, you can experiment with different acids to add a unique twist to the recipe. For example, you can use lemon juice, lime juice, or grapefruit juice to give the sauce a fresh and tangy flavor. You can also use different types of vinegar, like rice wine vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or balsamic vinegar, to give the sauce a unique taste.
7. Experiment with different cooking methods
Traditionally, Béarnaise sauce is made on a stovetop using a double boiler method. However, you can try different cooking methods to give the sauce a unique twist. For example, you can make the sauce using a sous vide method, or you can use a blender or food processor to emulsify the sauce. You can also try making the sauce using a microwave, which can save time and give you a velvety texture.
8. Add a touch of sweetness
While Béarnaise sauce is mostly known for its tangy and savory flavors, you can incorporate a touch of sweetness in the recipe to balance out the flavors. For example, you can use honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar to add a sweet taste to the sauce. You can also use fruits like mango or pineapple to add a tropical flavor to the sauce.
9. Use different types of oil
Béarnaise sauce is traditionally made with clarified butter; however, you can use other types of oil to add a unique twist. For example, you can use avocado oil or coconut oil for a healthy variation of the recipe. You can also use flavored oils, like truffle oil or garlic oil, to give the sauce a delicious flavor.
10. Pair the sauce with different dishes
While Béarnaise sauce is usually paired with beef or steak, you can experiment with different dishes to complement the sauce. For example, you can use the sauce with salmon, chicken, or even a vegetable dish like roasted asparagus. Using the sauce with different dishes can give it a fresh twist and make it even more versatile.
In conclusion, the Béarnaise sauce recipe is a classic that can be given a unique twist by using different ingredients, cooking methods, and even different dishes. These tips can help you make a delicious variation of the Béarnaise sauce recipe that will impress your guests and taste buds alike.
