Classic Lemon Hollandaise Sauce Recipe

Looking to elevate your breakfast or brunch? This classic hollandaise sauce with lemon is the perfect accompaniment for eggs Benedict or steamed vegetables. With its rich, buttery flavor and zesty lemon twist, it’s a true classic that will impress your guests and brighten up your meals.

Making hollandaise sauce may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple and requires just a few ingredients. The emulsion of egg yolks and melted butter creates a velvety texture that coats your food perfectly, while the lemon adds a refreshing brightness.

Crafting the Perfect Hollandaise Sauce

Hollandaise sauce stands out with its rich, creamy texture and bright, zesty flavor. This classic sauce is a staple in French cuisine, providing a luxurious touch to various dishes.

The process of making hollandaise may sound daunting, yet it is surprisingly straightforward. It mainly relies on just a few ingredients, making it accessible for home cooks ready to elevate their breakfast or brunch experience.

The Richness of Ingredients

The foundation of hollandaise sauce is simple but essential. The main components include egg yolks, fresh lemon juice, and melted unsalted butter. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the sauce’s signature flavor and texture.

Egg yolks are responsible for the creamy consistency, while lemon juice contributes a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness. Unsalted butter adds a velvety quality, bringing everything together beautifully.

Mastering the Technique

To create a flawless hollandaise sauce, using a double boiler is key. This method allows for gentle heating, preventing the egg yolks from scrambling. Proper whisking is vital as well to ensure a smooth emulsion.

Begin by whisking the egg yolks with lemon juice until the mixture thickens. Gradually incorporate the melted butter while whisking continuously. This step is essential for forming the emulsion that characterizes hollandaise.

Seasoning for Balance

Once the sauce is beautifully thick and creamy, it’s time to season. Adding salt enhances the flavors, while a pinch of cayenne pepper can introduce a hint of heat. Taste as you go to achieve a well-balanced sauce that suits your preference.

The final product should have a luxurious texture and an inviting aroma, making it hard to resist. Serve it fresh, as hollandaise is best enjoyed right after preparation.

Serving Suggestions

Hollandaise sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Its classic accompaniment is poached eggs served on toasted English muffins, creating the ever-popular Eggs Benedict. The bright yellow sauce cascades over the eggs, adding richness to each bite.

Beyond breakfast staples, hollandaise can elevate steamed vegetables, grilled fish, or even a hearty brunch spread. Its versatility makes it a delightful addition to many meals.

Presentation and Garnishing

Aesthetics play a significant role in enjoying food. When serving hollandaise, garnish with fresh herbs or a slice of lemon to enhance the visual appeal. The contrasting colors create an inviting plate that looks as good as it tastes.

Taking the time to present food beautifully adds to the overall dining experience, making it memorable for guests and family alike. Enjoy the rich flavors and creamy texture of this classic sauce, and savor it in good company.

The Ultimate Hollandaise Sauce

This hollandaise sauce is creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced. The combination of rich butter and bright lemon creates a luxurious experience that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes.

Its taste is a delightful blend of rich and tangy, with a buttery finish that lingers on the palate.

Ingredients

• 3 large egg yolks
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• Salt to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Double Boiler: Fill a medium saucepan with a couple of inches of water and bring it to a simmer. Place a heatproof bowl on top, ensuring it doesn’t touch the water.
2. Whisk Egg Yolks: In the heatproof bowl, combine the egg yolks and lemon juice. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is slightly thickened and pale in color.
3. Add Melted Butter: Slowly drizzle in the melted butter while continuously whisking to create an emulsion. Continue until all the butter is incorporated and the sauce is thick and smooth.
4. Season: Taste the hollandaise sauce and add salt and cayenne pepper if desired, whisking to combine.
5. Serve: Remove the bowl from heat and serve immediately over your favorite dishes.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 220kcal
• Fat: 24g
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 1g