Bordelaise sauce is a rich, velvety delight that elevates any meal to gourmet status! Imagine a luscious blend of beef broth, aromatic shallots, and a hint of tangy balsamic vinegar, simmered to perfection. This sauce envelops your favorite grilled vegetables or succulent chicken with its deep, savory notes, making every bite a celebration of flavor. Drizzle it over a perfectly seared steak or toss it with roasted potatoes for an unforgettable dining experience. Get ready to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds with this exquisite sauce!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elevates any dish with rich, savory flavors.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up at home.
- Versatile sauce pairs beautifully with meats and veggies alike.
- Impress your guests with a gourmet touch.
- Perfect for meal prep—store and use throughout the week!
bordelaise sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Collect the following: beef or vegetable broth, shallots, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, butter, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- In a saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine with the sautéed shallots and garlic.
- Add a sprig of fresh thyme and a bay leaf to the saucepan. Let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Remove the thyme and bay leaf. If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
- Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth and richness. Then, whisk in another tablespoon of butter for a silky finish.
- Give your sauce a taste. Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Pour your luscious Bordelaise sauce over your favorite dishes and watch everyone swoon!
Notes
| Calories | Fat | Protein | Carbs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 | 10g | 2g | 5g |
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Sauce |
| Cuisine: | French |
| Prep Time: | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 20 minutes |
| Total Time: | 30 minutes |
| Dietary: | Gluten-free, Dairy-free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | With steak, vegetables, or pasta |
Ingredients
- Shallots – Adds a sweet and mild onion flavor.
- Beef broth – Provides a rich, savory base for the sauce.
- Butter – Enhances creaminess and adds a luxurious texture.
- Fresh thyme – Infuses an aromatic herbal note.
- Black pepper – Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- Vegetable stock – A great alternative for a lighter flavor profile.
- Garlic – Brings a robust and fragrant element to the sauce.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Recipe
Get ready to whip up a delicious Bordelaise sauce that will elevate your dishes to new heights!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect the following: beef or vegetable broth, shallots, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, butter, and a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a saucepan, melt a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add finely chopped shallots and minced garlic. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour in 2 cups of beef or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine with the sautéed shallots and garlic.
Step 4: Infuse with Herbs
Add a sprig of fresh thyme and a bay leaf to the saucepan. Let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
Remove the thyme and bay leaf. If you want a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer or whisk in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
Step 6: Finish with Balsamic and Butter
Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth and richness. Then, whisk in another tablespoon of butter for a silky finish.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your sauce a taste. Add salt and pepper as needed to enhance the flavors.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Pour your luscious Bordelaise sauce over your favorite dishes and watch everyone swoon!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
•Use low-sodium beef broth for a balanced flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
•Simmer the sauce gently to develop rich flavors; avoid boiling.
•Strain the sauce for a silky texture, removing any solids.
•Add a touch of balsamic vinegar for depth and sweetness without wine.
•Serve immediately for the best flavor, but it can be refrigerated for up to a week.
How to Serve
Elevate your meals with these delicious serving suggestions:
- Drizzle over grilled vegetables for a rich, savory touch.
- Pair with roasted chicken for a gourmet twist.
- Serve alongside seared tofu for a plant-based delight.
- Use as a dipping sauce for crispy breadsticks.
- Top your favorite pasta with a generous spoonful for added depth.
- Enhance a simple salad with a splash for extra flavor.
- Mix into mashed potatoes for a luxurious side dish.
- Spread on a sandwich for a unique flavor boost.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the sauce to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.
Reheating
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
• Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
• Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQs
What can I use as a substitute for red wine in Bordelaise sauce?
You can use grape juice or a mixture of vinegar and water to mimic the acidity and depth of red wine. This will help maintain the flavor profile while keeping it alcohol-free.
How can I thicken my Bordelaise sauce?
If your sauce is too thin, you can simmer it longer to reduce it or add a cornstarch slurry. Just mix cornstarch with a little cold water, stir it in, and cook until thickened.
Can I make Bordelaise sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare Bordelaise sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat gently before serving to preserve its rich flavor.
What dishes pair well with Bordelaise sauce?
Bordelaise sauce complements a variety of dishes, including grilled vegetables, roasted chicken, or even hearty grains like quinoa. Its rich flavor enhances many meals!
Final Thoughts
As you savor your homemade bordelaise sauce, let the rich flavors transport you to a cozy bistro. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can create such a delightful experience! So, gather your loved ones, pour some non-alcoholic grape juice, and enjoy this culinary adventure together. Remember, cooking is all about joy and sharing—have fun with it, and relish every delicious bite!
Hungry for more delicious creations? Browse our site for more recipes and endless inspiration to spark your next culinary adventure!