Step 1

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Do not let it brown. Mix the flour and dry mustard powder together, then add to the butter and stir until the mixture is well blended and bubbling. Gradually stir in the hot milk, whisking continuously until the mixture returns to the boil and begins to thicken. Simmer, stirring frequently, over very low heat for 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt, white pepper and a pinch of nutmeg (optional). Makes 1 cup of thick sauce.

Step 2

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Do not let it brown. Mix the flour and dry mustard powder together, then add to the butter and stir until the mixture is well blended and bubbling. Gradually stir in the hot milk, whisking continuously until the mixture returns to the boil and begins to thicken. Simmer, stirring frequently, over very low heat for 5 minutes. Season to taste with salt, white pepper and a pinch of nutmeg (optional). Makes 1 cup of thick sauce.