Learn to make a white sauce and you have the basics for Cheese Sauce and the ‘method’ for gravy.

Makes 2 cups

¼ cup butter
¼ cup all purpose flour
1 teaspoon sea salt
A few grinds of fresh black pepper
2 cups milk

In a medium sauce pan, melt butter over low heat. Be careful not to let butter brown. Whisk in flour, salt, and pepper; stir until smooth. Add milk, a small amount at a time, whisking after each addition. When tall the milk has been incorporated into the flour mixture, turn heat up to medium and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Reduce heat and allow to simmer for 1 minute.


Basic Cheese Sauce
Makes 3 cups

To make Cheese Sauce, add ½ teaspoon dry mustard and 2 cups grated sharp Cheddar cheese to the hot white sauce. Stir, over low heat, until cheese is melted and the sauce is hot.