What Does Hollandaise Sauce Taste Like?

Contemplating trying Hollandaise sauce, or ordering a dish that has this sauce? Not sure whether you will like it and want to get an idea of what it tastes like first? You’ve come to the right place. Here is all you need to know.

So, what does Hollandaise sauce taste like? Hollandaise sauce tastes creamy and rich; you can often taste the butter which is a key ingredient. However, not all Hollandaise sauce tastes the same – it does differ somewhat by recipe, brand, and how it has been stored. Prepared from scratch, this sauce is often more abundant in flavor.

Like a lot of sauces, there is always going to be some variance.

Nevertheless, this egg-based sauce does often tend to follow a similar recipe.

That doesn’t mean you cannot introduce some other flavors into the mix, though.

Certain herbs and spices can enhance the taste, or make it sweeter or hotter, for instance.

Chances are, you still have some questions regarding the taste.

So, let’s now get into them.

Besides, you may not have decided whether this sauce is for you yet!

How Would You Describe Hollandaise Sauce?

Imagine a blend of butter, egg yolk(s), and lemon juice. That is essentially a Hollandaise sauce. So, you’ve got a relatively thick yet smooth, decadent sauce that is often light and pale in color.

You’ll see above there, egg yolk(s). That’s because not every recipe will call for the same amount.

And that’s key here.

The number of egg yolks used dictates the consistency; with more providing a thicker sauce.

This is essentially why some Hollandaise sauces are runnier than others.

And from there it really does depend on the recipe.

You’ll often find some variations here and there.

What Is Hollandaise Sauce Similar To?

Hollandaise sauce is similar in many ways to Mayonaisse, although it is actually a little creamier due to the butter. It’s also like cheese sauce without the cheesiness!

In fact, the ingredients are very similar to your average mayonnaise; egg yolks and lemon juice/vinegar.

It’s only the butter that really sets it apart.

And that gives it additional creaminess.

Now imagine cheese sauce; quite thick and decadent and pale yellow in color.

But remove the cheese/dairy flavor.

Pair them together.

And that’s really your average Hollandaise sauce.

Does Hollandaise Sauce Taste Eggy?

Hollandaise sauce should not taste eggy, although it can depending on how it was cooked and prepared. For instance, if the sauce was not cooked for long enough or not enough butter was used, eggy-notes can certainly be detected.

So, it shouldn’t take eggy, but it can.

In fact, if it does, it usually means something has gone wrong.

And eggy-ness is just one way to detect problems during cooking.

Lumping, curdling; are perhaps the other main signs something has gone wrong.

Typically, you’ll only find these kinds of issues with freshly prepared or homemade Hollandaise.

It’s not something you will or should expect with a store-bought or jarred option.

At least if it is still in date and has been stored properly.

What Does Hollandaise Sauce Go Well With?

Hollandaise sauce goes well with poached eggs (as is why it is the sauce used for Eggs Benedict), different types of fish, lean meats, and several different green and root vegetables.

It’s actually a very versatile sauce.

And while you will often find recommendations of when and where to use this sauce, the truth is, you’ll be surprised at how many dishes you could potentially add it to.

So certainly test and assess here.

Give it a go with different foods.

But do put it on the side.

That way if it doesn’t work – you’ve not ruined your entire meal!

Nevertheless, the following are considered great options for this particular sauce:

Vegetables

• Asapargus,
• Broccoli,
• Potatoes,
• Green Beans
• Spinach

Meat

• Bacon,
• Chicken,
• Pork,
• Steak,
• Venison

Fish

• Salmon,
• Crab,
• Cod,
• Shrimp

And beyond this, I’ve even heard it’s great with fries!

That’s right, french fries.

Sounds delicious to me.

And with those foods listed above, you can often pair them together to make a delicious meal.

Cod, spinach, potatoes, green beans, and Hollandaise sauce.

You’re welcome.

Finally

Hollandaise sauce can go with so many different foods.

And it’s all due to its subtle taste, and texture.

But if you do feel a little bold, you can often introduce some new flavors too.

Cilantro, Paprika, Cayenne Pepper, Parsley, Chives; are all good options to try.

It all comes down to preferences and your dish really.

Nevertheless, most people enjoy the taste of this sauce.

But you’ll only know if you give it a try!

So go ahead and make your own or purchase a store-bought option for convenience.

In fact, this particular brand you can get on Amazon is my personal favorite.

It’s the perfect way to test if you like it.