Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of milk
- 1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon of hot sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Whisk
- Saucepan
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the flour and whisk until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
3. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Continue whisking until the mixture thickens and comes to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheese, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
6. Whisk until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat
Serving size:
- This recipe makes about 2 cups of sauce, enough for 4-6 servings.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 200 per serving (1/3 cup)
- Total fat: 14g
- Saturated fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 10g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of grated cheese you like, such as Gouda, Swiss, or Parmesan.
- If you don't have tomato paste, you can use ketchup instead.
- If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or balsamic vinegar instead.
Variations:
- You can add chopped onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor.
- You can use beer instead of milk for a more traditional Francesinha sauce.
- You can add cooked bacon or sausage to the sauce for a meatier version.
Tips and tricks:
- Whisk constantly while making the sauce to avoid lumps and burning.
- Use a good quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Adjust the amount of hot sauce according to your taste.
Storage instructions:
- You can store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the sauce in a saucepan over low heat, whisking constantly until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the sauce over a Francesinha sandwich, a Portuguese specialty made with bread, ham, sausage, steak, and a fried egg.
- Drizzle the sauce over grilled chicken or steak for a cheesy twist.
- Use the sauce as a dip for fries or vegetables.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the sauce for a pop of color.
- Top the sauce with sliced olives or pickled vegetables for extra flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve the sauce with a cold beer or a glass of red wine.
Suggested side dishes:
- French fries
- Grilled vegetables
- Salad
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sauce is too thick, add more milk or broth to thin it out.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the sauce until it reaches a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C) to avoid foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Francesinha is a popular sandwich from Porto, Portugal, made with bread, ham, sausage, steak, and a fried egg, topped with a spicy tomato sauce and melted cheese.
Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, tangy, and slightly spicy.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the sauce hot or warm over your favorite dish.
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Region: Portuguese