Delia Smith Bread Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Stud the onion with cloves

Insert the pointed end of each clove into the onion quarters, spacing them evenly. You should have about 15 cloves in total. This will infuse the onion and the milk with a warm and aromatic flavor. 🌿

Step 2: Simmer the onion and the milk

Place the onion in a small saucepan and pour the milk over it. Add the bay leaves and a pinch of salt. Bring the milk to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer gently for 50 minutes, partially covered with a lid. Stir occasionally to prevent the milk from scorching. 🥛

Step 3: Strain the milk and discard the onion

After 50 minutes, the onion and the milk should be well-infused. Remove the saucepan from the heat and strain the milk through a fine sieve or strainer into a measuring jug. You should have about 425 ml (15 fl oz) of milk left. Discard the onion, the cloves, and the bay leaves. 🗑️

Step 4: Add the bread crumbs and the butter

Return the milk to the same saucepan and bring it back to a boil. Add the bread crumbs and the butter and stir well to combine. The bread crumbs will absorb the milk and thicken the sauce. The butter will add richness and flavor. 🧈

Step 5: Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and nutmeg

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Add a generous amount of freshly grated nutmeg and stir well. Nutmeg is the key spice for bread sauce and gives it a distinctive and festive taste.

Step 6: Serve the sauce hot or warm

Transfer the sauce to a serving bowl and serve it hot or warm with your roast chicken or turkey. You can also reheat the sauce later if you make it ahead. Enjoy your bread sauce with your family and friends.

What Do I Serve With Delia Smith Bread Sauce?

• Roast potatoes or mashed potatoes
• Cranberry sauce or red currant jelly
• Stuffing or dressing
• Yorkshire pudding or popovers
• Gravy or jus

Pro Tips to Make Perfect Delia Smith Bread Sauce

Follow these tips when preparing this bread sauce recipe to guarantee optimal flavor, texture, and ease.

• Use whole milk rather than skim or semi-skimmed. The higher fat content prevents a thin, watery sauce.
• Fresh white bread makes the ideal crisp crumbs without altering flavor or color. Avoid seeds, nuts, or whole grains.
• Studying the onion with cloves before simmering infuses the milk with warmth and aromatic flavor. Bay leaves offer additional depth.
• Grate the nutmeg fresh rather than using pre-ground. Fresh nutmeg boasts an intense, vibrant character.
• Stir constantly when adding bread crumbs and butter. This prevents sticking or lumps from forming.
• Taste and season generously with salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Spike with cayenne or mustard powder for a touch of heat if desired.

Variations of Delia Smith Bread Sauce

Customize this bread sauce recipe to your preferences with tasty mix-ins.

• For a richer, creamier sauce, stir in double cream after adding bread crumbs and butter. Half-and-half or light cream works too.
• Add grated cheddar, parmesan, or other favorite cheese for extra flavor and cheese appeal.
• Fresh or dried herbs like dill, parsley, rosemary, or sage provide color and brightness.
• Spices like cayenne, paprika, or curry mix in nicely for extra vibrancy and heat.

How do I store Delia Smith Bread Sauce Leftovers?

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Chill completely before storing.
• Freeze leftovers in a freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Leave room for expansion and label.

How do I reheat Delia Smith Bread Sauce Leftovers?

• Stovetop: You can reheat Delia Smith Bread Sauce leftovers in a saucepan over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally, until hot and smooth. You may need to add some more milk or cream to thin the sauce if it is too thick.
• Microwave: You can reheat Delia Smith Bread Sauce leftovers in a microwave-safe bowl or dish, covered with a lid or a plate, in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds, until hot and smooth. You may need to add some more milk or cream to thin the sauce if it is too thick.