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Gordon Ramsay Hollandaise Sauce

Silky hollandaise sauce dripping from a whisk

A silky, lemony hollandaise built on a quick vinegar and peppercorn reduction and finished with warm butter. The yolks are cooked gently to a safe 160°F (71°C) for a stable, glossy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Reduction

  • 2 tablespoons white vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons water
  • 1 small shallot, finely chopped
  • 4 black peppercorns, lightly crushed
  • 1 small bay leaf

For the Sauce

  • 3 large egg yolks, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and warm
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus more to taste

Seasoning

  • 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons warm water, as needed

Instructions

  1. Simmer the vinegar, water, shallot, peppercorns and bay leaf in a small saucepan for 3 to 4 minutes until reduced to about 1 tablespoon. Strain into a heatproof bowl and cool for 1 minute.
  2. Melt the butter until hot but not browned, skimming off the foam if you like.
  3. Rinse the saucepan, add 1 inch of water and bring to a bare simmer so the bowl can sit over it without touching the water.
  4. Add the egg yolks and lemon juice to the reduction. Set the bowl over the simmering water and whisk constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until thick and pale and the yolks reach 160°F (71°C).
  5. Remove the bowl from the heat and set it on a damp towel. Whisk in the warm butter a teaspoon at a time, then in a thin stream once the sauce thickens.
  6. Whisk in the salt, cayenne and extra lemon juice to taste, loosening with warm water if needed.
  7. Serve immediately, or hold over warm water for up to 30 minutes, whisking occasionally.

Notes

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days; do not freeze. Rewarm slowly over barely simmering water, whisking in a little warm water, until smooth and heated to 165°F (74°C).

Nutrition

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