Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a sensational French sauce that promises to elevate every dish from ordinary to extraordinary! Lemon Sauce de Gilles is not just a condiment, it's a culinary revelation that brings bright, tangy elegance to your table in just 15 magical minutes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this incredibly simple yet sophisticated sauce will make you feel like a true French gastronome with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 15 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine water, sugar, and lemon zest. Heat over medium heat, stirring until sugar completely dissolves.
- In a small bowl, whisk cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water to create a smooth slurry, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Gradually pour lemon juice into the sugar-water mixture, stirring continuously to integrate the flavors.
- Slowly add the cornstarch slurry to the saucepan, whisking constantly to prevent clumping and ensure smooth consistency.
- Continue cooking and stirring, allowing the sauce to simmer and thicken for approximately 3-4 minutes. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon when ready.
- Remove from heat and gently stir in the butter until fully incorporated, creating a glossy and rich texture.
- Let the sauce cool for 2-3 minutes, which will allow it to further thicken slightly.
- Strain through a fine-mesh sieve if desired for an extra smooth finish, removing lemon zest and any potential cornstarch lumps.
- Serve warm over desserts, fish, or as a complementary sauce for various dishes.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Use cold water when creating your cornstarch slurry to prevent lumps and ensure a silky-smooth sauce.
- Whisk Constantly: Continuous whisking is crucial when adding cornstarch and during the simmering process to maintain a uniform texture.
- Watch the Consistency: The sauce is ready when it coats the back of a spoon - this indicates the perfect thickening point.
- Zest Matters: Use fresh lemon zest for the most vibrant, aromatic flavor. Avoid using pre-dried zest if possible.
- Strain for Perfection: For an ultra-refined sauce, always strain through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any potential zest or cornstarch bits.
- Serving Suggestions: This versatile sauce pairs beautifully with fish, desserts, and can even be a gourmet drizzle over roasted vegetables.
- Make Ahead: The sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Gently reheat and whisk before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 70kcal
Carbohydrates: 14g
Protein: 0g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
