Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce Recipe

Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce is a classic British side dish often served with poultry, particularly with roast turkey or chicken, during festive meals like Christmas. The sauce is simple yet flavorful, made from a base of milk, butter, onion, and breadcrumbs.

The bread not only thickens the sauce but also imparts a comforting texture and a subtle, hearty flavor. The key to this sauce is its creamy consistency, paired with the aromatic infusion of onion and cloves, which gives it a mild yet distinct taste that complements the richness of roasted meats. This dish is not only a nostalgic favorite but also a relatively easy recipe to master.

Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Milk – The foundation of the sauce, providing creaminess.
2. Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
3. Onion – A whole onion, often studded with cloves, which infuses the sauce with a mild, aromatic flavor.
4. Cloves – A couple of cloves, typically stuck into the onion, for that aromatic, spiced depth.
5. White breadcrumbs – Fresh breadcrumbs are preferred, and they help thicken the sauce.
6. Seasoning – Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Nutmeg (optional) – A touch of grated nutmeg can enhance the flavor, though it’s an optional addition.
8. Bay leaf (optional) – Some recipes include a bay leaf to further enrich the flavor, though it’s not always necessary.

Equipment Needed

Making Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce doesn’t require many special tools, but there are a few items that will make the process smoother:

1. Saucepan – A medium-sized saucepan to heat the milk and infuse the flavors.
2. Knife – For peeling and studding the onion with cloves.
3. Chopping board – To chop any additional ingredients, such as a bay leaf, if you choose to use it.
4. Grater (optional) – For freshly grated nutmeg, if you’re including that extra bit of spice.
5. Wooden spoon – To stir the sauce as it cooks and ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan.
6. Strainer – If you decide to strain the sauce for a smoother texture, especially if you’ve used a bay leaf or clove-studded onion.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce

Step 1: Infuse The Milk

Start by pouring the milk into a medium saucepan. Take a whole onion, peel it, and stud it with a few cloves.

Add this onion to the saucepan along with the milk. You can also add a bay leaf at this point if you’re using one.

Heat the milk gently over medium heat, allowing it to come to a simmer, but be careful not to let it boil. Once it’s simmering, remove the pan from the heat and leave it to infuse for about 20 minutes. This will allow the flavors from the onion and cloves to permeate the milk.

Step 2: Prepare The Breadcrumbs

While the milk is infusing, take your white bread (preferably a day or two old) and remove the crusts. Grate or tear the bread into fresh breadcrumbs.

You’ll need about 1 to 1.5 cups of breadcrumbs, depending on how thick you prefer the sauce.

Step 3: Combine The Milk And Breadcrumbs

After the milk has infused, remove the onion (and bay leaf, if used) from the saucepan. Over low heat, gradually add the breadcrumbs to the milk, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. The breadcrumbs will begin to absorb the milk, thickening the sauce.

Step 4: Cook The Sauce

Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently. Let it simmer gently for 10-15 minutes, allowing the breadcrumbs to swell and the sauce to thicken.

At this stage, add butter to the sauce for richness. Typically, 2 tablespoons should suffice.

Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. You may also wish to grate a pinch of fresh nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Serve

Once the bread sauce has reached your desired consistency, remove the pan from the heat. Serve it hot, alongside your roast chicken or turkey. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for a couple of days if needed and reheated gently before serving.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Quality of Bread: Use fresh bread that has been left out for a day or two, or you can dry the bread slightly in the oven. The texture of the breadcrumbs is important, so avoid using pre-packaged crumbs.
• Milk Choice: Full-fat milk will create the creamiest result, but you can use a lower-fat variety if preferred. Some people even add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
• Infusing the Milk: Make sure to infuse the milk slowly over low heat. The longer you let the milk sit with the onion and cloves, the more intense the flavor will be.
• Texture Control: For a smoother sauce, you can strain out any clove or onion pieces before serving. If you like it chunkier, simply leave the bits in for added texture.
• Adding Flavor: Experiment with the addition of other seasonings. A pinch of dried thyme or sage can lend a beautiful herbal note to the sauce. For an even richer taste, you can stir in a small amount of grated cheese, such as Parmesan.

Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce is the perfect example of British comfort food at its finest. With its creamy, savory flavor and simple ingredients, it elevates any roasted bird, adding a rich and warming element to your meal.

Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion like Christmas or a regular Sunday roast, this bread sauce is sure to become a favorite. By following the steps and using the tips provided, you’ll be able to master this traditional dish and impress your guests with a side dish that’s both comforting and delicious.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce Recipe

Delia Smith’s bread sauce recipe is a beloved classic that pairs wonderfully with roast poultry, particularly turkey or chicken. However, like many traditional recipes, it leaves room for a little creativity. Here are a few simple twists you can apply to give this comforting side dish a new spin:

1. Herb Infusion

While Delia’s original recipe calls for the basics-milk, butter, onions, and bread crumbs-one simple way to elevate the flavor is by adding a variety of herbs. Rosemary, thyme, or sage can be added during the simmering stage to infuse the sauce with a fragrant, earthy depth. A sprig of rosemary or a few leaves of thyme simmered gently in the milk will add a subtle aroma, making it even more aromatic and complex.

2. Garlic And Shallots

If you love garlic, consider replacing the regular onion with shallots, or even adding minced garlic to the onion. Shallots provide a gentler, sweeter flavor, while garlic introduces a robust layer that complements the creamy texture of the sauce.

3. Spices For A Kick

Want to add some heat?

A small pinch of ground white pepper or even a dash of chili flakes can bring a spicy contrast to the richness of the bread sauce. A hint of nutmeg also pairs beautifully with the creamy, comforting nature of the sauce, giving it a slightly sweet, aromatic quality.

4. Cheese For Extra Creaminess

For a richer texture and an indulgent twist, try stirring in some grated cheese, such as sharp cheddar or Gruyère, after the bread sauce is cooked. This will melt into the sauce and create a velvety finish that adds both flavor and richness to the sauce, turning it into a more luxurious accompaniment.

5. Lemon Zest Or Juice

A splash of fresh lemon juice or a teaspoon of lemon zest can bring an unexpected brightness to the sauce. This can cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast that lifts the dish without overpowering the other flavors.

These twists are easy to incorporate and can be adjusted to suit your personal tastes or to match the theme of your meal. Whether you’re looking to make the bread sauce more herbaceous, creamy, or zesty, these additions will give it a delicious twist.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Leftovers are often an integral part of meal planning, especially when it comes to sauces like Delia Smith’s bread sauce. However, proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality and safety of your food. Here’s how to store your leftover bread sauce properly:

1. Cool The Sauce Quickly

Before storing, make sure the sauce has cooled down to room temperature. Leaving hot food to cool at room temperature for too long can promote bacterial growth. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the sauce in a shallow container to allow the heat to dissipate more quickly.

2. Use An Airtight Container

Once cooled, transfer the bread sauce into an airtight container. This prevents it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge and helps maintain its flavor and texture. Glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers are ideal, as they are easy to clean and won’t retain odors.

3. Refrigeration

Store your bread sauce in the refrigerator if you plan to use it within the next 2-3 days. Properly stored in an airtight container, the sauce should remain good for this amount of time. Always label the container with the date it was made so you can keep track of how long it has been stored.

4. Freezing For Long-Term Storage

If you want to keep bread sauce for a longer period, freezing is a good option. Transfer the cooled sauce into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion as the sauce freezes.

When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure the sauce heats evenly.

5. Reheating

When reheating bread sauce, do so gently over low heat. Adding a little extra milk or cream while reheating can help restore the sauce’s smooth, creamy texture.

Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating or becoming too thick. Never reheat bread sauce more than once, as doing so can degrade its quality.

By following these simple steps, your bread sauce will stay fresh and delicious, making it easy to enjoy again on another day.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce?

Bread sauce is a classic, versatile side dish, and while it’s typically served alongside roast poultry, it can be enjoyed with a wide range of dishes. Here are some delightful options to pair with this creamy, comforting sauce:

1. Roast Chicken Or Turkey

The most traditional pairing for bread sauce is with roast chicken or turkey. The rich, creamy texture of the bread sauce complements the savory flavors of roasted poultry perfectly, adding an extra layer of comfort to the dish.

2. Roast Pork Or Lamb

Bread sauce doesn’t have to be limited to poultry; it also pairs beautifully with roast pork or lamb. The mild flavor of the bread sauce complements the rich, slightly fatty nature of these meats, particularly when the roast has a crispy, golden exterior.

3. Grilled Or Roasted Vegetables

If you’re opting for a vegetarian meal, bread sauce works wonderfully with grilled or roasted vegetables like carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower. The sauce adds a creamy richness that balances the natural sweetness and slight bitterness of roasted vegetables.

4. Stuffing And Sausages

For a more traditional British take, serve bread sauce alongside stuffing and sausages, particularly during a holiday feast. The mild, creamy sauce ties together the different elements of a roast dinner, especially with the herbs and spices often found in stuffing.

5. Mashed Potatoes Or Roasted Potatoes

Bread sauce can also be paired with mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes. Its creamy, smooth texture contrasts beautifully with the fluffiness of mashed potatoes, and it adds a touch of richness to crispy roasted potatoes.

6. Meatloaf

If you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, bread sauce can also be served with meatloaf. The sauce pairs perfectly with the savory, slightly sweet flavor of meatloaf, adding a creamy element that complements the meat.

Bread sauce is versatile and adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different dishes to find the perfect pairing. It can elevate both simple meals and grand feasts, making it a great addition to any table.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s bread sauce recipe is a timeless classic that’s both comforting and versatile. With a few simple twists, you can elevate the flavor profile of this sauce, whether by adding fresh herbs, a touch of garlic, or a dash of cheese.

Storing your leftovers properly ensures that you can enjoy this rich, creamy sauce again, and when it comes to pairing, the possibilities are endless. From traditional roast poultry to hearty meatloaf or roasted vegetables, bread sauce can complement a wide range of dishes. With its flexibility and creamy texture, it’s no wonder that this sauce remains a beloved part of many festive meals and everyday dinners alike.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce Recipe?

Delia Smith’s bread sauce recipe requires simple ingredients including milk, butter, onion, fresh white bread (preferably stale), a bay leaf, whole cloves, and salt. The combination of these ingredients creates a creamy, flavorful sauce that perfectly complements roast meats, especially turkey or chicken.

Can I Prepare Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce In Advance?

Yes, Delia Smith’s bread sauce can be made in advance. Once prepared, allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a little extra milk to adjust the consistency, if needed.

Is It Possible To Make Delia Smith’s Bread Sauce Recipe Vegetarian Or Vegan?

Yes, Delia Smith’s bread sauce recipe can be easily adapted to suit a vegetarian or vegan diet. To make it vegetarian, simply replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like margarine or olive oil. For a vegan version, ensure the milk is swapped for a non-dairy milk, such as almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a vegan butter substitute.