Julia Childs Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce
When it comes to classic sauces, few can rival the rich, buttery goodness of hollandaise. Julia Child, the beloved culinary icon, made this sauce approachable with her easy blender method, perfect for drizzling over poached eggs, asparagus, or even a perfectly cooked Pan Seared Tri Tip Steak. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a batch that will elevate any dish to gourmet status. Let’s dive into the world of Julia Child’s Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce!
Why It Deserves a Spot
Hollandaise sauce is one of the five mother sauces in classical cooking, and mastering it can open up a whole new dimension of culinary creativity. This particular recipe simplifies the process, allowing even novice cooks to achieve a velvety, luscious sauce. Whether you’re preparing a special brunch or looking to impress at dinner, this sauce deserves a spot in your recipe repertoire.
What You’ll Need
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of pepper (I use a small pinch of cayenne for warmth)
- 1-2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (closer to 2 tablespoons for a tangy kick)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
Equipment & Tools
- Blender: The star of the show, making this sauce a breeze.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
- Small saucepan: To melt the butter gently.
- Spatula: For scraping down the sides of the blender.
Julia Childs Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Melt the Butter
Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. You want it to be fully melted but not browned, as burnt butter can impart an unpleasant flavor to your sauce.
Step 2: Prepare the Blender
Add the egg yolks, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to the blender. Blend these ingredients together on medium speed until they become thick and pale, usually about 30 seconds.
Step 3: Add the Butter
With the blender running, slowly pour the melted butter into the egg mixture in a thin stream. This step is crucial, as it helps to emulsify the sauce, creating that signature creamy texture.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Flavor
Once all the butter is incorporated, check the consistency of your hollandaise. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out by adding a teaspoon of warm water. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or lemon juice as desired.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Hollandaise is best served fresh. Drizzle it over your favorite dishes, such as eggs benedict or steamed vegetables, and enjoy!
Season-by-Season Upgrades
- Spring: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or chives for a bright, seasonal twist.
- Summer: Add a touch of fresh tomato or roasted red pepper for a vibrant flavor.
- Fall: Incorporate a pinch of nutmeg or sage for a warm, comforting variation.
- Winter: Mix in some grated parmesan for a creamy, cheesy hollandaise perfect for heartier dishes.
Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary
- This sauce is highly versatile; feel free to experiment with spices and flavorings that suit your taste.
- If you’re new to hollandaise, keep a close eye on the blending process to avoid over-mixing.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or sriracha right before serving.
- This recipe makes about one cup of sauce, which is usually enough for 4-6 servings.
Store, Freeze & Reheat
Hollandaise sauce is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over a double boiler, stirring constantly until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can cause the sauce to separate.
Freezing is not recommended, as the sauce does not hold its texture well once frozen and thawed.
Julia Childs Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce Q&A
Can I use whole eggs instead of just egg yolks?
While traditional hollandaise is made with egg yolks for richness, using whole eggs will result in a lighter sauce. The flavor will be slightly different and less creamy, but it can still be delicious.
What can I serve hollandaise sauce with?
Hollandaise is fantastic drizzled over eggs benedict, poached eggs, asparagus, or even fish. It can elevate a simple breakfast or dinner to something extraordinary!
How do I know if my hollandaise sauce has curdled?
If the sauce looks grainy or has separated, it has likely curdled. To fix it, you can try whisking in a teaspoon of warm water or starting over with a new egg yolk and slowly incorporating the curdled mixture.
Can I make hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
Hollandaise is best made fresh, but if you need to prepare it in advance, you can store it in the fridge for a short period. Just remember to gently reheat it before serving.
Healthy-ish Favorites
- Best Ever Fettuccine Alfredo: A creamy pasta dish that pairs beautifully with hollandaise.
- Grilled vegetables: Hollandaise adds a rich layer of flavor to your favorite grilled veggies.
- Quinoa salad: Drizzle over quinoa for a protein-packed meal with a zesty twist.
- Poached salmon: A light, healthy dinner choice that complements the sauce perfectly.
Hungry for More?
If you’re eager to explore more delicious recipes that can enhance your culinary skills, don’t hesitate to dive into the world of classic sauces and elegant dishes. Julia Child’s Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce is just the beginning of your journey into gourmet cooking. With practice, you’ll find new ways to integrate this creamy delight into your meals, making every dining experience a special occasion. Happy cooking!
Julia Childs Easy Blender Hollandaise Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by melting the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat until fully melted but not browned.
- Add the egg yolks, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to the blender. Blend on medium speed until thick and pale, about 30 seconds.
- With the blender running, slowly pour the melted butter into the egg mixture in a thin stream to emulsify the sauce.
- Check the consistency and adjust with warm water if too thick. Taste and add more salt or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve immediately over dishes like eggs benedict or steamed vegetables.
Notes
- Experiment with spices and flavors to suit your taste.
- Keep a close eye on the blending process to avoid over-mixing.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick before serving.
- This recipe yields about one cup, enough for 4-6 servings.
