Basic Roux
Master the foundational skill of any great sauce or stew with this versatile Basic Roux recipe, a simple yet indispensable mixture of unsalted butter and all-purpose flour. Ready in just 10 minutes, this classic recipe allows you to create three unique types of roux—white, blond, and dark—each adding a distinct depth of flavor and color to your dishes. Whether you're whipping up a silky béchamel, a velvety velouté, or a hearty gumbo, this step-by-step guide ensures smooth, lump-free results every time. Perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, this adaptable roux is a culinary essential you'll return to again and again.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
In a medium-sized heavy-bottomed saucepan or skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir frequently to ensure even melting and to prevent browning.
Once the butter has melted completely and starts to foam, gradually add the all-purpose flour. Sprinkle it in slowly while continuously whisking to avoid lumps.
Continue whisking the butter-flour mixture to form a smooth paste. Cook over medium heat while whisking constantly for 2-3 minutes to eliminate the raw taste of the flour. This point gives you a 'white roux,' which is best for delicate dishes like béchamel sauce or chowders.
If you desire a 'blond roux,' cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly darken to a light, golden color. This roux is often used for velouté sauces and light gravies.
For a 'dark roux,' continue cooking and whisking patiently for 6-8 more minutes until the mixture becomes a deep caramel or nutty brown color. This type of roux is frequently used in Creole and Cajun dishes like gumbo.
Turn off the heat once the desired color is achieved. Use the roux immediately in your recipe or let it cool slightly before storing in an airtight container for later use.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
522 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.4 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 29.2 g | 146% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 124 mg | 41% | |
| Sodium | 5 mg | 0% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23.8 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.8 g | 3% | |
| Total Sugars | 0.1 g | ||
| Protein | 3.7 g | 7% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.7 mcg | 4% | |
| Calcium | 16 mg | 1% | |
| Iron | 1.1 mg | 6% | |
| Potassium | 39 mg | 1% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
