Béarnaise sauce is a classic French condiment that elevates a steak dinner to gourmet status. Rich, creamy, and infused with aromatic herbs, béarnaise is a derivative of hollandaise sauce and is celebrated for its tangy and savory flavor profile. Here’s everything you need to know about this indulgent sauce and how to pair it with steak.
What is Béarnaise Sauce?
Béarnaise sauce is a warm emulsified sauce made primarily of butter, egg yolks, white wine vinegar, shallots, and tarragon. Its origin dates back to the 19th century, and it was named after the Béarn region in France. The sauce is beloved for its velvety texture and the way it balances richness with the herbal and acidic notes of its ingredients.
Why Pair Béarnaise with Steak?
Steak is often rich and hearty, with bold, savory flavors. Béarnaise sauce complements steak beautifully by adding a luxurious creaminess and a tangy kick that cuts through the meat’s richness. The herbal notes from tarragon and the mild sweetness from shallots enhance the steak’s flavor, making each bite more complex and satisfying.
Choosing the Right Cut of Steak
While béarnaise sauce pairs well with almost any steak cut, certain cuts shine particularly bright when served with this sauce:
- Filet Mignon: The tender, mild flavor of filet mignon is a perfect match for béarnaise sauce, as the sauce adds a rich, flavorful dimension to the lean meat.
- Ribeye: The marbled fat in a ribeye pairs wonderfully with béarnaise, creating an indulgent combination.
- New York Strip: This cut’s bold, beefy flavor is complemented by the creamy tang of béarnaise.
Serving Tips
- Warm the sauce gently if needed but avoid overheating, as it can cause the emulsion to break.
- Garnish with fresh tarragon leaves for a touch of elegance.
- Pair your steak and béarnaise sauce with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Bordeaux or Cabernet Sauvignon, to complete the meal.
Béarnaise Sauce – Nutritional Facts
Per Serving (Based on a 2,000-Calorie Daily Diet)
| Nutrient | Amount (% DV) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Total Fat | 23g (29%) |
| Saturated Fat | 14g (70%) |
| Cholesterol | 115mg (38%) |
| Sodium | 120mg (5%) |
| Total Carbohydrate | 1g (<1%) |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g (0%) |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 1g (2%) |
| Iron | 0.2mg (1%) |
| Vitamin C | 0mg (0%) |
| Calcium | 8mg (1%) |
| Potassium | 35mg (1%) |
Conclusion
Béarnaise sauce is a timeless classic that can transform a simple steak into a culinary masterpiece. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or indulging in a special meal at home, this sauce is sure to impress. With its rich texture and vibrant flavor, béarnaise is a must-try for steak lovers everywhere.
Bearnaise Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 shallot finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon champagne vinegar
- ½ cup crème fraiche
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon tarragon, chopped
- Sea salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Melt butter over medium heat, add shallot, cook five minutes
- Add champagne vinegar, cook for additional 2 minutes
- Stir in crème fraiche, Dijon, tarragon and remove from heat