Saffron sauce based on hollandaise
4 servings
20 minutes
Saffron sauce based on hollandaise is a refined addition to European dishes, distinguished by its rich, creamy flavor with a subtle spicy note of saffron. Hollandaise, one of the classic French sauces, gains a special warm touch from saffron, known for its noble aroma and golden color. This sauce pairs perfectly with seafood, tender meats or vegetables, turning them into restaurant masterpieces. The delicate texture is achieved by carefully whisking egg yolks with a vinegar base and then gradually adding melted butter to create a velvety consistency. A light acidity from lemon balances the flavor, making it expressive yet refined. Such a sauce not only decorates the dish but also adds depth and complexity, making every meal special.
1
Place vinegar, water, and pepper in a small heavy-bottomed pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer at a bubbling boil for 1 minute or until reduced by a third (about 2.5 tablespoons). Add 1/2 teaspoon of saffron threads to the vinegar water.
- White wine vinegar: 2 tablespoons
- Water: 2 tablespoons
- Ground white pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Saffron: 0.5 teaspoon
2
Remove from heat and let cool, then strain the liquid into a heatproof bowl. Add the egg yolks to the liquid and whisk.
- Egg yolk: 2 pieces
3
Place a bowl over a pot of boiling water: the bottom of the bowl should not touch the water. Whisk the mixture for 5-6 minutes or until thickened to be gooey, creamy, and smooth in texture.
4
Place the bowl on a damp kitchen towel. Slowly add the melted butter in a very thin stream and whisk the sauce until thick and glossy.
- Unsalted butter: 250 g
5
Add lemon juice, season with salt and pepper.
- Lemon: 0.5 piece
- Cayenne pepper: pinch
6
Serve immediately. To maintain the sauce temperature, use a water bath or transfer the sauce to a thermos.