LINDA'S SPINACH IN GARLIC SAUCE

Steps:

• Slice or dice the butter into small pieces, and melt it over low heat in a NON-aluminum saucepan.
• It's important to avoid aluminum, because it tends to turn light-colored sauces an unappetizing gray hue.
• When the butter has begun to foam and bubble, vigorously mix in the flour with a wooden spoon, or wire whisk.
• If you want your final sauce to be white, make absolutely sure not to let the roux turn brown.
• If it does begin to get tinged with beige, turn down the burner, or remove the pot from the heat altogether, to let the roux cool down for a few seconds.
• Let cook and bubble 2-3 minutes, until the roux is smooth, and has the consistency of cake frosting.
• This removes the floury taste.
• When making a roux-based sauce, always be sure that the roux and the liquid (milk or stock) are different temperatures before you combine them.
• If the roux is hot, the liquid should be cold; if the roux is cold, the liquid should be hot.
• Combining the 2 ingredients at different temperatures allows them to heat up at a moderate rate, not too fast, and not too slow, ensuring a velvety-smooth, lump-free sauce.
• If you're not yet a sauce expert, try the hot liquid/cold roux approach first.
• That way, you can gradually add roux until the sauce is the exact thickness you like.
• Gradually stir in milk, and garlic powder.
• Bring to boil, and then reduce heat.
• Let simmer 3-5 minutes, or until thickened.
• Keep warm.
• Cook 3 lbs of fresh spinach in boiling water, for about 5 minutess.
• You don't want it to be mushy, just al dente.
• Strain, and put in serving dish.
• Pour sauce over spinach.
• Sprinkle with salt and pepper, and serve.