This is a thick creamy Cheese Sauce that can be made with any type of Cheese but Mature or Extra Mature Cheddar is best for a distinctive cheesy flavour.
Cheese sauce is used in many recipes including Cauliflower Cheese, Cheesy Nachos or Cheesy Potatoes.
...
Origins of Cheese Sauce
The history of cheese sauce is a delicious journey that traces back to ancient times when cheese was first discovered.
While the exact origins are a bit murky, it's believed that cheese-making began around 8000 B.C. in the Middle East, with various cultures experimenting with different types of milk and fermentation processes.
Fast forward to the 18th century, and cheese sauce began to gain popularity in Europe, particularly in France and Italy, where culinary innovation was at its peak. The classic combination of melted cheese with cream or butter created a rich, velvety sauce that quickly became a staple in many dishes, from pasta to vegetables.
In the United States, cheese sauce took on a life of its own, especially with the rise of fast food in the mid-20th century, where it became a beloved topping for nachos and a key ingredient in mac and cheese.
Today, cheese sauce continues to evolve, with chefs experimenting with different cheeses, spices, and even incorporating elements like beer or jalapenos, making it a versatile and cherished component of modern cuisine.
How Cheese was Discovered
The discovery of cheese is a fascinating tale that dates back thousands of years, likely originating around 8000 BCE when humans first began domesticating animals like goats and sheep.
It is believed that early herders, while transporting milk in containers made from animal stomachs, accidentally stumbled upon the process of curdling. The natural enzymes present in the stomach lining, combined with the warmth of the environment, caused the milk to separate into curds and whey.
This serendipitous event led to the realization that the curds could be consumed, resulting in a new food source that was not only nutritious but also had a longer shelf life than fresh milk.
Over time, different cultures began to refine the cheese-making process, experimenting with various techniques and ingredients, which ultimately gave rise to the diverse array of cheeses we enjoy today.
From the creamy Brie of France to the sharp Cheddar of England, cheese has evolved into a beloved staple in cuisines around the world, all thanks to that fortuitous moment in history when milk transformed into something extraordinary.
Please read our Ad Policy
Serves: Four
Easy
Cook in: 10 min
Prep: 5 min
What equipment do you need ?
Title
Video : Making a Cheese Sauce
Video available soon
What is Cheese Sauce?
This recipe for Cheese Sauce is a pretty basic recipe, but you can mix it up a bit and use half Cheddar Cheese & Half Stilton Cheese for a delicious stilton sauce.
This recipe can be adapted to many different Cheese Sauces, even a spicy Nacho Sauce - Just season with Tabasco Sauce and use American Cheese (7 slices).
...
Variations of Cheese Sauce
Cheese sauce can be prepared in various ways, each offering a unique flavour and texture.
For instance, a classic cheddar cheese sauce is often used for macaroni and cheese, while a creamy blue cheese variant can enhance salads or steak dishes.
Additionally, incorporating spices such as garlic or mustard can elevate the sauce, providing a more complex taste profile.
Experimenting with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, can also yield delicious results, catering to diverse culinary preferences.
Ultimately, the versatility of cheese sauce allows for endless creativity in both home cooking and professional kitchens.
Grate the cheese into a suitable container and set aside.
Melt the butter in a saucepan, on a low heat.
Mix the Flour, Nutmeg & Black pepper together in a small bowl.
Warm the Milk in a microwave for a minute or two so that it is warm.
When the butter has melted add the Flour mix then whisk it together to form a Roux.
Slowly add the warm milk, whisking all the time until the sauce starts to thicken.
Add the Cheese and let it melt into a thick cheese sauce.
Please read our Ad Policy
Chefs Tips for making Cheese Sauce
Is cheese sauce healthy?
The healthiness of cheese sauce largely depends on its ingredients and portion size. Typically made from cheese, milk, and various seasonings, cheese sauce can be high in calories, saturated fats, and sodium.
Can I make cheese sauce without flour?
Yes, it is possible to make cheese sauce without using flour. Instead of flour as a thickening agent, you can utilize alternatives such as cornstarch or arrowroot powder, which can effectively achieve a similar consistency.
What is a roux?
A roux is a thickening agent made from flour and fat, typically butter, that is cooked together until it reaches a desired colour : white (pale, 5 mins), blonde (golden, 10 mins), brown (peanut butter, 20+ mins), and dark brown/chocolate (30+ mins). The darker the roux the less thickening power it has.
Can I freeze cheese sauce?
Yes, cheese sauce can be frozen, but it is important to consider that the texture may change upon thawing. Freezing can cause the sauce to become grainy or separate, which may affect its overall quality.
How can I store leftover cheese sauce?
To store leftover cheese sauce, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Place the container in the refrigerator, where the cheese sauce can be kept for up to three to four days. If you wish to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the sauce.
Cuisine:British
