9 Best Substitute For Bechamel Sauce

Bechamel sauce, one of the “mother sauces” of French cuisine, is a velvety white sauce renowned for its versatile applications and creamy texture. Traditionally composed of butter, flour, and milk, it forms the basis for many other sauces and features in countless recipes. However, due to various dietary preferences or restrictions, such as lactose intolerance, veganism, or low-carb diets, finding an effective substitute for Bechamel sauce is often necessary.

The best substitutes for Bechamel maintain the creamy texture and richness of the original sauce while adapting to the specific dietary requirements or flavor preferences of the dish. They range from alternatives like cream sauce or cornstarch-based sauce, which closely mimic the original, to unique choices such as cashew cream or cauliflower puree. Each substitute offers a distinct flavor profile and nutritional content, allowing for tailored customization in your culinary endeavors. The magic lies in choosing the right one based on the texture, flavor, and dietary considerations needed for your masterpiece.

In the realm of culinary delights, sauces play a pivotal role in defining and enhancing the flavor profiles of a multitude of dishes. Among the various sauce concoctions that have enthralled our palates, Bechamel sauce stands as a titan. Known for its creamy consistency and delicate flavor, this white sauce is a cornerstone of French and Italian cuisines. But, what if you’re out of the necessary ingredients to prepare Bechamel or need to cater to dietary restrictions? That’s where substitutes step in. This guide provides a comprehensive look at some of the best alternatives you can use for Bechamel sauce, delving into their preparation, flavor profiles, and nutritional aspects.

What is Bechamel Sauce?

Bechamel sauce, one of the five “mother sauces” in French cuisine, is a smooth, white sauce made from a roux of butter and flour, cooked in milk. It acts as a base for other sauces such as Mornay sauce, and is a key ingredient in dishes like lasagna and moussaka. Its velvety texture and mild, creamy taste make it an ideal addition to a variety of recipes.

Quick Panorama of Bechamel Sauce Substitutes

• Cream sauce
• Cornstarch-based sauce
• Soy milk and olive oil mixture
• Pureed silken tofu
• Cauliflower puree
• Greek yogurt
• Coconut milk and rice flour mixture
• Cashew cream
• Vegan cheese sauce

Best Substitutes For Bechamel Sauce

In the sections that follow, we delve deeper into each of the aforementioned substitutes. Each ingredient’s uniqueness, method of preparation, taste, and potential uses will be explored.

Cream Sauce

Cream sauce is a rich and delectable substitute for Bechamel sauce. As a dairy product, it imparts a similar creamy texture and rich flavor to dishes. Made by simmering cream over low heat and seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper, this sauce is simplicity itself.

The basic cream sauce recipe can be easily modified to mimic the taste and consistency of Bechamel sauce. To make it, all you need to do is simmer heavy cream until it reduces and thickens slightly. Adding a touch of nutmeg, a common ingredient in Bechamel sauce, gives your cream sauce that classic Bechamel flavor.

A key advantage of cream sauce is its versatility. It can be used in pasta dishes, baked vegetables, and casseroles. However, it’s essential to bear in mind that cream sauce is significantly higher in calories and fat content than Bechamel sauce, which might be a consideration for those monitoring their intake.

Cornstarch-Based Sauce

For those looking for a gluten-free alternative, a cornstarch-based sauce is an excellent choice. Cornstarch is a thickening agent that, when combined with butter and milk, can create a sauce with a similar consistency to Bechamel. The resulting sauce is smooth and glossy, with a neutral flavor that adapts well to additional seasonings.

The process of making cornstarch-based sauce involves dissolving cornstarch in a small amount of cold milk. The remaining milk is heated to a simmer, and then the cornstarch mixture is added. The sauce is cooked until it thickens, creating a perfect Bechamel substitute.

Cornstarch-based sauce is ideal for gluten-free pasta dishes, creamy soups, and casseroles. Although it lacks the distinct flavor of a roux-based sauce, the addition of seasonings like garlic, onion, and nutmeg can elevate its taste.

Soy Milk and Olive Oil Mixture

Soy milk and olive oil mixture offers a vegan-friendly Bechamel substitute. Soy milk’s creamy texture and mild flavor, combined with olive oil’s richness, make a convincing stand-in for the classic sauce. This mixture can provide a similar consistency and satisfying mouthfeel as Bechamel sauce.

In terms of preparation, it’s a fairly straightforward process. Olive oil is heated and mixed with flour to form a roux. Then, soy milk is gradually added and whisked until smooth. Seasonings such as nutmeg, salt, and pepper are added to taste.

This substitute is suitable for a variety of vegan and dairy-free dishes, such as vegan lasagna, pasta, and baked vegetables. With the increasing demand for plant-based alternatives, this mixture proves to be a valuable addition to the modern kitchen.

Pureed Silken Tofu

Pureed silken tofu can also serve as a unique substitute for Bechamel sauce. Silken tofu has a high water content and a creamy, custard-like texture. When pureed, it forms a smooth and creamy base that closely resembles the texture of Bechamel sauce. Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein and a good option for vegans and lactose-intolerant individuals.

To make this substitute, silken tofu is blended until smooth and heated with garlic and nutritional yeast for added flavor. The result is a thick and creamy sauce that’s an excellent addition to vegan and vegetarian recipes.

Given its neutral taste, pureed silken tofu can be used in a wide variety of dishes, including lasagna, moussaka, and macaroni and cheese. It’s also a fantastic option for creamy dips and spreads.

Cauliflower Puree

If you’re looking for a lower-calorie, vegetable-based substitute for Bechamel sauce, cauliflower puree is an excellent option. This sauce has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with many dishes.

Creating this substitute involves cooking cauliflower florets until soft and then blending them with milk and garlic until smooth. Nutmeg, salt, and pepper are added to taste, giving the sauce a depth of flavor similar to Bechamel.

Cauliflower puree is versatile, making it a fantastic addition to pasta dishes, casseroles, and vegetable bakes. It’s also a healthier alternative, being lower in fat and calories than Bechamel sauce.

Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt offers a tangy, protein-rich alternative to Bechamel sauce. It’s thicker and creamier than regular yogurt, making it a suitable base for sauces. Mixed with a bit of flour and heated gently, it can mimic the thick, velvety consistency of Bechamel sauce.

The slightly tart flavor of Greek yogurt can add a pleasant tang to dishes. It can be tempered with seasonings such as garlic, nutmeg, and a bit of Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor kick.

Greek yogurt works well in pasta dishes, adding a creamy texture without the added fat. It’s also an excellent choice for baking and can be used in recipes requiring a white sauce, such as lasagna and moussaka.

Coconut Milk and Rice Flour Mixture

Coconut milk and rice flour mixture is an excellent substitute for Bechamel sauce, especially for those following a vegan or gluten-free diet. Coconut milk has a rich, creamy texture and a slightly sweet taste, while rice flour acts as a thickening agent.

Preparing this mixture involves heating coconut milk and whisking in rice flour until the sauce thickens. Seasonings such as garlic, onion, and a pinch of nutmeg can be added to boost flavor.

This substitute is suitable for a variety of dishes, including vegan and gluten-free lasagna, pasta, and casseroles. Although coconut milk has a distinct flavor, it works surprisingly well in dishes that typically use Bechamel sauce.

Cashew Cream

Cashew cream is a versatile, vegan-friendly Bechamel substitute. When soaked and blended, cashews create a rich, creamy sauce with a subtle, nutty flavor. This substitute offers a similar consistency to Bechamel and adds a touch of sophistication to dishes.

To prepare cashew cream, soak raw cashews in water until they are soft. After draining, the cashews are blended with fresh water until smooth, creating a creamy, dairy-free alternative to Bechamel sauce.

Cashew cream works well in a variety of dishes, including vegan lasagna, pasta, and gratins. Its rich, creamy texture and subtle nutty flavor make it a unique and delicious Bechamel alternative.

Vegan Cheese Sauce

Finally, vegan cheese sauce offers a savory and creamy alternative to Bechamel sauce. This sauce typically uses nutritional yeast to achieve a cheesy flavor, combined with a blend of vegetables and cashews for creaminess.

The sauce is made by blending boiled potatoes and carrots with soaked cashews and nutritional yeast. The result is a creamy, cheesy sauce that is perfect for anyone looking to avoid dairy or simply try something different.

Vegan cheese sauce is incredibly versatile. It can be used in vegan lasagna, as a sauce for pasta, or even as a dip for vegetables.

Substitutes for Bechamel Sauce: Nutritional Profile

Substitute	Gluten	Calories	Fat	Carbs	Fiber	Protein
Cream Sauce	Yes	205	22g	2g	0g	1g
Cornstarch-Based Sauce	No	60	2g	10g	0g	1g
Soy Milk and Olive Oil Mixture	Yes	90	7g	3g	1g	3g
Pureed Silken Tofu	No	45	1.5g	2g	0g	5g
Cauliflower Puree	No	28	0.3g	5g	2g	2g
Greek Yogurt	No	59	0.4g	3.6g	0g	10g
Coconut Milk and Rice Flour Mixture	No	120	12g	3g	0g	1g
Cashew Cream	No	157	12g	9g	0.9g	5g
Vegan Cheese Sauce	No	140	8g	15g	3g	4g

(Note: Nutritional values are approximations and may vary.)

Conclusion

In the realm of culinary creativity, finding alternatives and substitutes is part of the adventure. From cream sauces to vegan cheese sauces, there’s a world of possibilities to replace the classic Bechamel. Whether it’s due to dietary restrictions, personal preference, or simply out of necessity, these substitutes are sure to bring an exciting twist to your dishes. The next time you find yourself in need of a Bechamel alternative, we hope you’ll consider these choices and discover a new favorite!