If you put flour in the sauce, you must never cook it again. My mother-in-law told me how to make it properly

In Czech households, flour is used as a thickening agent when making sauces. While this method is quick and easy, it can often affect the taste and consistency of the sauce. When my mother-in-law told me that flour does not belong in a sauce, I was skeptical at first. However, her advice and tips convinced me that there are better ways to achieve a perfectly smooth and delicious sauce.

Problems with flour in sauces

Flour can make a sauce heavy and mealy, which is not always desirable. Adding flour often causes the sauce to lose its natural lightness and become thick. In addition, flour adds calories and is not suitable for people with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Alternative ways to thicken sauces

My mother-in-law showed me that there are several ways to achieve a great sauce consistency without using flour. One of the best ways is to use pureed vegetables. This approach not only thickens the sauce, but also enriches it with additional flavors and nutrients.

Preparing vegetable puree is simple. First, you prepare root vegetables like carrots, celery and parsley. You sauté the vegetables in butter or olive oil until soft. Then you add the broth and let it cook until the vegetables are completely soft. Blend the mixture until smooth and return it to the pot. Add cream or yoghurt to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

This method is not only healthier, but also richer in flavor. The sauce gets a natural sweetness and depth of flavor from the vegetables that you would never achieve with flour.

How to make it

And what is the procedure if you are preparing the sauce without flour?

• Preparation of vegetables: Clean and chop carrots, celery, onion and garlic. Sauté the vegetables in butter or olive oil until soft.
• Cooking: Add the broth and cook until the vegetables are completely soft. Then blend the mixture until smooth.
• Thickening: Return the puree to the pot, add cream or yogurt to taste, and let the sauce simmer for a few more minutes to get the desired consistency. If the sauce is too thick, you can dilute it with a little stock or water.
• Seasoning: Finally, season the sauce with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings to your taste.

Advantages of this method

There are several advantages to using vegetable puree instead of flour. First of all, the sauce is healthier and richer in flavour. In addition, this method is also suitable for people on a gluten-free diet or those looking for healthier alternatives. The pureed root vegetables add a natural sweetness and depth of flavour to the sauce that you would never achieve with flour.

Making a sauce without flour is a great way to improve your culinary skills and offer family and friends healthier and tastier meals. Try this method and see for yourself how easily you can achieve great results in the kitchen.

Photo: Shutterstock