Unlock the secret: is hollandaise sauce the perfect pairing for chicken cordon bleu?

The tantalizing combination of chicken, cheese, and ham in chicken cordon bleu is a culinary masterpiece. But what if you could elevate this classic dish to new heights? Enter hollandaise sauce, a rich and velvety condiment that adds a touch of elegance and indulgence.

The Perfect Pairing: Hollandaise and Chicken Cordon Bleu

Hollandaise sauce is a classic French sauce made from egg yolks, butter, lemon juice, and salt. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the savory flavors of chicken cordon bleu perfectly. The sauce adds a richness that enhances the dish without overpowering its delicate balance.

How to Make Hollandaise Sauce

Making hollandaise sauce may seem daunting, but it’s surprisingly easy with the right technique. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Whisk the egg yolks: In a heatproof bowl, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, and salt.
2. Heat the butter: In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter over low heat.
3. Temper the egg yolks: Gradually whisk the melted butter into the egg yolks, a little at a time, to prevent curdling.
4. Cook over heat: Continue whisking over low heat until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
5. Remove from heat: Take the sauce off the heat and whisk in any remaining butter.
6. Season to taste: Add additional lemon juice, salt, or cayenne pepper to your desired taste.

Serving Hollandaise Sauce with Chicken Cordon Bleu

Once you’ve made your hollandaise sauce, it’s time to serve it with your chicken cordon bleu. Here are a few tips:

• Drizzle over the chicken: Generously drizzle the hollandaise sauce over the cooked chicken cordon bleu.
• Dip and savor: Serve the chicken cordon bleu with extra hollandaise sauce for dipping.
• Garnish with herbs: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or chives over the sauce for an elegant touch.

Variations on the Hollandaise Theme

While the classic hollandaise sauce is a perfect match for chicken cordon bleu, you can experiment with different variations to suit your taste:

• Béarnaise sauce: A variation that includes tarragon and shallots for a more herbaceous flavor.
• Malt vinegar hollandaise: A tangy twist using malt vinegar instead of lemon juice.
• Chive hollandaise: A vibrant sauce with the addition of finely chopped chives.

Other Sauces to Consider

While hollandaise sauce is a popular choice for chicken cordon bleu, there are other sauces that can also complement the dish:

• Mornay sauce: A creamy cheese sauce that adds a rich and indulgent flavor.
• Béchamel sauce: A versatile white sauce that can be used as a base for various other sauces.
• Mustard sauce: A tangy and flavorful sauce that pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken cordon bleu.

The Final Verdict: Yes, You Can!

So, can you put hollandaise sauce on chicken cordon bleu? Absolutely! The creamy richness of hollandaise sauce elevates the classic dish to a whole new level of culinary delight. Whether you prefer the classic version or a variation, this sauce is a perfect complement to the savory flavors of chicken cordon bleu.

Questions You May Have

Q: Is it difficult to make hollandaise sauce?
A: With the right technique, making hollandaise sauce is surprisingly easy. Follow the step-by-step guide above for a foolproof result.

Q: Can I make hollandaise sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make hollandaise sauce up to 2 days ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it gently over low heat before serving.

Q: What if my hollandaise sauce breaks?
A: If your hollandaise sauce separates or becomes grainy, whisk in a tablespoon of cold water and continue whisking until it emulsifies again.