How to make bordelaise sauce –Transform your culinary skills with this classic Bordelaise sauce recipe. This rich, flavorful sauce is a staple in French cuisine and pairs beautifully with steaks and other meats. This guide will help you create a sauce that will impress your guests and elevate your dinner table. Let’s dive into the process of making this delightful sauce!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Before starting, ensure you have all the ingredients on hand to make the preparation smooth:
- 1 cup red wine
- 1/2 cup beef stock
- 1 shallot, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Step 2: Preparing the Base
The key to a delicious Bordelaise sauce lies in the preparation of its base. Start by melting the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced shallot and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. This step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the sauce.
Step 3: Deglazing with Wine
Once the shallots are ready, it’s time to deglaze the pan. Pour in the red wine, stirring to combine. Allow this mixture to simmer gently until it reduces by half, which should take around 10-15 minutes. The reduction process enhances the intensity of the flavors.
Step 4: Adding the Stock and Seasoning
After the wine has reduced, add the beef stock and chopped thyme. Continue to simmer the sauce for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the sauce has thickened and achieved the desired consistency, remove it from heat. Strain the sauce through a fine-mesh sieve to achieve a smooth texture, if desired. Serve immediately or keep warm until you are ready to enjoy it complementing your favorite dishes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
This Bordelaise sauce adds richness and sophistication to any meal. Drizzle it over perfectly cooked steaks or use it to elevate other meat dishes. Garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful presentation, and enjoy the robust flavors that this classic sauce brings to your table!