Why You Don’t Want To Miss This: Does Hollandaise Sauce Go With Chicken Cordon Bleu?

The culinary world is a realm of endless possibilities, where flavors intertwine and create tantalizing experiences. Among the iconic culinary creations, chicken cordon bleu stands tall as a masterpiece of French cuisine. Its succulent chicken, indulgent ham, and melted cheese filling make it a symphony of flavors. But what about the perfect sauce to accompany this delectable dish? Enter hollandaise sauce, a rich and velvety emulsion that has captivated taste buds for centuries. In this culinary exploration, we delve into the question: does hollandaise sauce go with chicken cordon bleu?

A Taste of History

Hollandaise sauce, with its origins in the Netherlands, has long been a staple in European cuisine. Its creamy texture and tangy flavor, attributed to egg yolks and lemon juice, have made it a favorite for pairing with various dishes. Chicken cordon bleu, on the other hand, emerged in Switzerland in the 1940s as a culinary tribute to the blue ribbon (cordon bleu) awarded to exceptional chefs.

The Culinary Connection

The combination of chicken cordon bleu and hollandaise sauce is a culinary match made in heaven. The richness of the sauce complements the savory flavors of the chicken, ham, and cheese, creating a harmonious balance. The acidity of the lemon juice in the hollandaise cuts through the fattiness of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast.

Enhanced Flavors

Hollandaise sauce amplifies the flavors of chicken cordon bleu by adding a layer of richness and depth. The sauce’s velvety texture coats the chicken, enhancing its moistness and tenderness. The tangy lemon flavor brightens the dish, bringing out the subtle nuances of the ham and cheese.

Visual Appeal

The vibrant yellow color of hollandaise sauce adds a touch of elegance to the presentation of chicken cordon bleu. It creates a visually appealing contrast with the golden-brown crust of the chicken and the white filling.

Versatility

Hollandaise sauce is not just limited to classic chicken cordon bleu. It can also be paired with variations of the dish, such as chicken cordon bleu with spinach, mushrooms, or even seafood. The sauce’s versatility makes it a perfect accompaniment for a wide range of flavors.

Alternative Sauces

While hollandaise sauce pairs exceptionally well with chicken cordon bleu, there are other sauces that can also complement the dish.

Béchamel Sauce

Béchamel sauce, a classic French sauce, provides a creamy and comforting base for chicken cordon bleu. Its mild flavor allows the natural flavors of the dish to shine through.

Mushroom Sauce

A rich and earthy mushroom sauce is another excellent choice for chicken cordon bleu. The umami-packed sauce adds a savory depth to the dish, enhancing the flavors of the ham and cheese.

Wrap-Up: A Symphony of Flavors

The question of whether hollandaise sauce goes with chicken cordon bleu can be answered with a resounding yes. The combination of the rich, velvety sauce with the savory flavors of the chicken, ham, and cheese creates a culinary symphony that delights the palate. While alternative sauces can also complement the dish, hollandaise sauce remains the classic and most harmonious pairing.

Popular Questions

Q: What is the best way to make hollandaise sauce for chicken cordon bleu?
A: To make a classic hollandaise sauce, whisk together egg yolks, lemon juice, salt, and pepper over a double boiler until thickened. Slowly drizzle in melted butter while whisking constantly.

Q: Can I use store-bought hollandaise sauce with chicken cordon bleu?
A: While homemade hollandaise sauce is always preferred, store-bought sauce can be used as an alternative. However, it may not have the same richness and flavor as a freshly made sauce.

Q: What other dishes can I serve hollandaise sauce with?
A: Hollandaise sauce is a versatile sauce that pairs well with a variety of dishes, including asparagus, eggs Benedict, and seafood.