Bearnaise Sauce
Ingredients
Tap the ingredients you have on hand
- egg yolks≈ $0.40
- butter≈ $1.20
- tarragon≈ $0.80
- shallots≈ $0.50
- white wine vinegar≈ $2.00
Prices are rough US grocery estimates per ingredient and may vary by store and season.
Instructions
- 1
Reduce shallots and vinegar.
- 2
Whisk yolks into reduction.
- 3
Stream butter to emulsify.
- 4
Finish with tarragon.
About this recipe
Elevate your next meal with a classic sauce that brings sophistication and incredible flavor to the table. This elegant butter emulsion, kissed with tarragon and shallots, is a cornerstone of fine French dining and surprisingly achievable in your home kitchen. Perfect for a special occasion or simply to make an ordinary weeknight steak or fish dish feel extraordinary, mastering this rich, tangy sauce is a culinary triumph.
Ready in about 30 minutes, this recipe serves four beautifully, making it ideal for a small dinner party or a memorable family meal. Its vibrant, herb-infused profile pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, poached salmon, roasted asparagus, or even as a decadent dip for crispy potatoes. Discover the secret to restaurant-quality flavor with this iconic condiment.
The story behind it
Originating in 19th-century France, specifically at the Pavillon Henri IV in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, this iconic sauce is a derivative of its mother sauce, Hollandaise. It was supposedly created to celebrate the region's famed Béarn province, hence its name. This rich, emulsified sauce quickly became a staple in classic French gastronomy, celebrated for its luxurious texture and bright, herbal notes that perfectly complement savory dishes.
Chef's tips
- 1Use fresh, good quality tarragon for the best aromatic flavor in your reduction.
- 2Whisk constantly and vigorously when adding butter to the egg yolks to ensure a stable emulsion and prevent curdling.
- 3Keep your butter warm but not hot; melted butter that is too hot will cook the eggs too quickly.
- 4If the sauce thickens too much, whisk in a teaspoon of warm water or a touch more melted butter, gradually.
- 5Season the reduction first, before adding the egg yolks and butter, to ensure a balanced flavor profile.
Ways to make it your own
Stir in a tablespoon or two of tomato paste or tomato purée at the end for a rosy hue and a subtle fruity sweetness.
Substitute the butter with a high-quality vegan butter alternative and the egg yolks with a blend of silken tofu and a pinch of black salt for an eggy flavor.
Infuse a pinch of finely minced jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper into the vinegar reduction for a touch of heat.
Replace half of the tarragon vinegar with fresh lemon juice in the reduction for a brighter, tangier finish.
Frequently asked
Why is my sauce breaking or separating+
Your sauce is likely breaking because the butter was added too quickly, or it was too hot, causing the eggs to scramble. Whisking too slowly can also be a culprit.
Can I make hollandaise sauce in advance+
It is best served immediately after preparation, as reheating can cause it to separate and lose its creamy texture. You can keep it lukewarm for a short time in a thermos.
What is the difference between bearnaise and hollandaise sauce+
Both are emulsified butter sauces, but bearnaise is flavored with a reduction of vinegar, shallots, tarragon, and peppercorns, while hollandaise uses lemon juice and often cayenne.
How can I fix a broken bearnaise sauce+
Whisk a teaspoon of hot water or a fresh egg yolk into a clean bowl, then slowly drizzle the broken sauce into it while continuously whisking until emulsified again.
Is Bearnaise Sauce gluten-free+
Yes, classic sauce is naturally gluten-free as its main ingredients are butter, egg yolks, vinegar, shallots, and herbs, none of which contain gluten.