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Classic Bearnaise Sauce Recipe

This rich and flavorful sauce is a classic accompaniment to steak, grilled fish, and vegetables. Made with shallots, tarragon, and a rich buttery flavor, it is sure to elevate any dish.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Course Sauce
Cuisine French
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 310 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 3 egg yolks
  • 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup minced shallots
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh tarragon
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • In a small saucepan, combine the white wine vinegar, white wine, shallots, and 1 tablespoon of the chopped tarragon. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer until the liquid has reduced by half, about 5-7 minutes.
  • In a small heatproof bowl, whisk the egg yolks until they are light and frothy.
  • Add 1 tablespoon of the reduced liquid from the saucepan to the egg yolks and whisk vigorously to combine. Repeat this process with another tablespoon of the reduced liquid.
  • Return the saucepan with the remaining reduced liquid to the stove over low heat. While whisking the egg yolks constantly, slowly pour the egg mixture into the saucepan in a thin stream.
  • Continue to whisk the mixture until it thickens and doubles in volume, about 3-5 minutes.
  • Remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly pour in the melted butter, whisking constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  • Add the remaining chopped tarragon to the sauce and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  • Serve the Bearnaise sauce immediately with steak, grilled fish, or vegetables.