Bordelaise Sauce Recipe

Bordelaise sauce is a classic French culinary masterpiece that has stood the test of time. Named after the Bordeaux region of France, this rich and flavorful sauce is an essential component of French gastronomy. Known for its deep, savory taste, Bordelaise is traditionally made with red wine, bone marrow, and aromatics, creating a luxurious complement to steaks and other meats. While it may sound like a simple sauce, the complexity of flavors it imparts has made it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. Its combination of bold, earthy wine notes and the richness of marrow offers a perfect balance of flavor, making Bordelaise sauce a true indulgence in fine dining.

Bordelaise sauce is a luxurious French sauce that combines the boldness of red wine with the richness of bone marrow. It’s a perfect accompaniment for steaks, roast meats, and even grilled vegetables. Here’s how to prepare it:

Ingredients:

1 cup red wine (preferably Bordeaux or another dry red wine)
1/4 cup beef stock (or demi-glace for a richer flavor)
2 tablespoons butter
1 small shallot, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons bone marrow (optional but traditional, available from butcher)
1-2 sprigs fresh thyme
1-2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Wine Reduction:

In a medium saucepan, combine the red wine, shallots, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves.
Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to reduce by about half, which usually takes around 15-20 minutes. This concentrates the flavors and creates a base for the sauce.

2. Add Beef Stock:

Once the wine mixture has reduced, add the beef stock (or demi-glace) to the saucepan.
Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes to reduce again by about one-third. The sauce should thicken slightly and become more flavorful.

3. Incorporate the Bone Marrow:

While the wine and stock are simmering, heat a small pan over medium heat and add the bone marrow. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the marrow to melt and become soft.
Once the bone marrow has rendered, strain the liquid into the wine reduction, discarding any solids. This will add a rich, velvety texture to the sauce.

4. Finish the Sauce:

Once the sauce has reached your desired consistency (it should be smooth and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon), remove it from the heat.
Stir in the butter until melted and fully incorporated. The butter adds shine and a silky finish to the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Strain and Serve:

For a smoother texture, strain the sauce through a fine mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids and herbs.
Pour the Bordelaise sauce over steaks or roasted meats, and garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Serving Suggestions:

Steak: Bordelaise sauce is a classic pairing for rich cuts of beef, such as filet mignon, ribeye, or a juicy New York strip steak.
Roasted Meats: It also works wonderfully with lamb, venison, or even roasted duck.
Grilled Vegetables: For a vegetarian twist, drizzle Bordelaise sauce over grilled vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or roasted root vegetables.

Pro Tips:

Wine Choice: The quality of wine can dramatically affect the flavor of your Bordelaise sauce. Choose a good-quality red wine that you enjoy drinking.
Bone Marrow: Bone marrow is optional, but if you’re able to include it, it elevates the richness of the sauce. You can find it at most butcher shops or specialty stores.
Consistency: If your sauce is too thin, simply reduce it a little longer until it thickens. If it’s too thick, add a little more beef stock or wine.

Final Thoughts:

Bordelaise sauce is a truly indulgent addition to any meal. The complexity of flavors and luxurious mouthfeel makes it a favorite in French cuisine. While the recipe requires a bit of time and patience, the results are well worth the effort. Enjoy your culinary masterpiece!

To discover more amazing recipes like Bordelaise sauce, check out our previous article for more delicious food ideas!