Textual Chef

Classic Hollandaise Sauce

A rich, buttery sauce with lemon, perfect for eggs benedict, vegetables, or fish. This traditional French mother sauce is silky smooth with a bright tanginess.

15 minMediumServes 4220 cal/serving

FrenchSauceStovetopVegetarianNut-FreeSoy-FreeGluten-Free

Ingredients

  • 3 large egg yolks
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp cold water
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • pinch cayenne pepper
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, melted, warm

Instructions

  1. 1

    In a heatproof bowl, whisk together 3 large egg yolks, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, and 1 tbsp cold water until light and frothy.

  2. 2

    Place the bowl over a saucepan of barely simmering water (double boiler method), ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water.

  3. 3

    Whisk constantly until the mixture thickens and reaches 160°F (71°C), about 3-4 minutes. The mixture should coat the back of a spoon.

  4. 4

    Remove from heat and slowly drizzle in 3/4 cup melted, warm unsalted butter while whisking continuously, creating a smooth emulsion.

  5. 5

    Season with 1/4 tsp salt and pinch cayenne pepper. Keep warm until ready to serve.

  6. 6

    If the sauce becomes too thick, whisk in a few drops of warm water. If it starts to separate, add a teaspoon of cold water and whisk vigorously.

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