Mary Berry Bread Sauce

Discover the warmth and richness of Mary Berry's Bread Sauce, a quintessential British accompaniment that transforms any roast dinner into a festive feast. Originating from "Mary Berry’s Christmas Collection," this sauce is not only a traditional part of the Christmas dinner but also a delightful addition to any meal featuring roast poultry.

Brief Description of the Recipe Mary Berry's Bread Sauce is celebrated for its creamy texture and comforting flavors, highlighted by cloves, bay leaves, and a hint of nutmeg. It's made by infusing milk with these aromatic ingredients, then thickening it with fresh breadcrumbs and enriching it with butter and double cream, resulting in a sauce that is both savory and slightly spiced.

Cultural or Historical Context Bread sauce has a rich history dating back to medieval times, serving not only as a means to thicken sauces and soups but also as a way to use up stale bread. It gained popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries among the upper classes and has remained a beloved part of British cuisine ever since​​.

Ingredients for Mary Berry Bread Sauce

• Onion, quartered: 1
• Cloves: 4
• Bay Leaves: 2
• Milk: 450ml
• Fresh White Breadcrumbs: 100g
• Double Cream: 150ml
• Unsalted Butter: 25g
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
• Freshly grated Nutmeg: a pinch

Preparation Instructions

1. Begin by studding the onion with cloves, then place it in a saucepan with bay leaves and milk.
2. Bring to a boil, then let steep off the heat for about 10 minutes before removing and discarding the onion and bay leaves.
3. Stir in breadcrumbs and return to a boil, simmering until thickened.
4. Finish by adding cream and butter, seasoning with salt, pepper, and nutmeg​​.

Storage and Reheating Mary Berry's Bread Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For freezing, ensure it's cooled to room temperature before storing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, adding milk to adjust the consistency if necessary​​.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 141 kcal per serving
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Protein: 4g
• Salt: 0.43mg

FAQ about Mary Berry Bread Sauce

• Can I make Mary Berry’s bread sauce in advance? Yes, it can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer. Just ensure to reheat it gently while stirring, possibly adding a bit of milk to adjust the consistency​​.
• Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs? Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute, though they may absorb moisture differently. Adjust the milk quantity as needed to achieve the desired consistency​​.

Mary Berry's Bread Sauce is a testament to the beauty of British culinary traditions, offering a simple yet profound way to elevate your roast dishes. Whether it's Christmas or any other occasion, this sauce is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.