Bread sauce is a traditional British condiment usually served with roast turkey, chicken or game. The spelling "bread sauce" follows the English language rules of combining the two words "bread" and "sauce". The phonetic transcription of "bread sauce" is [bɹɛd sɔːs], with the stress on the first syllable of both words. The "ea" in "bread" has a short e sound, while the "ou" in "sauce" has an aw sound. In a British accent, the "r" in "bread" is pronounced.
Bread sauce is a traditional British condiment or sauce made from bread, typically served alongside roast poultry or game. It is characterized by its creamy texture and subtle flavors, providing a comforting and slightly tangy complement to the main dish.
The sauce is typically made by simmering milk or cream with bread crumbs or small pieces of stale bread, resulting in a thickened mixture. Additional flavorings and seasonings, such as cloves, onion, bay leaves, or nutmeg, are often added to enhance the taste. The sauce is strained before serving to achieve a smooth and velvety consistency.
Bread sauce has a long history in British cuisine, dating back to at least the 18th century. It was originally created as a way to use up stale bread and make it more palatable. Over time, it became a staple accompaniment to roast meats, particularly at festive occasions such as Christmas dinners and Sunday roasts.
When served, bread sauce is often spooned over the meat or poultry, adding a comforting and indulgent element to the meal. Its creamy texture and mild flavors provide a contrast and balance to the richness and meats' robust taste. It is a versatile condiment that can be enjoyed not only during holiday feasts but also at any occasion where roast poultry or game is served.
The word "bread sauce" dates back to the early 18th century in England. The term "sauce" comes from the Old French word "sauce" meaning a relish or condiment. However, the word "bread" in this context refers to the main ingredient of the sauce, which is stale bread soaked in milk or cream and flavoured with various spices such as cloves, onion, and nutmeg. The sauce was traditionally served with roast meats, particularly turkey or chicken. Over time, "bread sauce" became the designated term for this specific sauce.