Hollandaise sauce is a rich and creamy classic French sauce made with butter, egg yolks, and lemon juice. Perfect for eggs Benedict, asparagus, or roasted vegetables!
Ingredients:
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted and warm
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or more to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- A pinch of cayenne pepper or black pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare a Double Boiler:
- Fill a medium saucepan with about 1-2 inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl over the saucepan, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water.
2. Whisk Egg Yolks:
- Add the egg yolks to the bowl and whisk constantly until they thicken slightly and turn pale yellow (about 1-2 minutes).
3. Add Lemon Juice:
- Whisk in the lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
4. Slowly Add Butter:
- Gradually pour the melted butter into the egg yolk mixture while whisking constantly. Add it slowly to avoid curdling the sauce.
5. Cook Until Thickened:
- Continue whisking for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens to a creamy, pourable consistency.
6. Season and Serve:
- Remove from heat and stir in cayenne pepper or black pepper, if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning with more lemon juice or salt as needed.
Tips for Success:
- Keep the heat low and whisk continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water to thin it out.
- Serve the sauce immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Ideas:
- Eggs Benedict: The classic pairing of poached eggs, English muffins, and ham or smoked salmon.
- Asparagus: Drizzle over steamed or roasted asparagus for a gourmet touch.
- Vegetables: Use as a sauce for broccoli, cauliflower, or potatoes.
- Fish: Serve with poached or grilled salmon for a rich finish.
Storage:
- Hollandaise sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be kept warm for up to 1 hour by placing it in a bowl over warm water. It doesn’t reheat well.
Enjoy this silky, buttery sauce as a luxurious addition to your favorite dishes!
