Creamy ham and cheese sauce

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• 50 g butter or margarine
• 200 ml cream or milk
• 100g Gouda
• 100 g Parmesan
• 200 g cooked ham
• 1 small onion(s)
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp flour
• salt and pepper
• 1 tbsp vegetable stock powder
• 1 tsp, heaped herbs of Provence or thyme, oregano, rosemary and savory

Instructions

Working time approx. 10 minutes; Cooking/baking time approx. 10 minutes; Total time approx. 20 minutes

Dice the onion and ham. Finely chop the garlic cloves. Grate or cut the cheese into small pieces. Put about half of the butter or margarine in a saucepan and briefly fry the ham. Add the onions and fry over medium heat until translucent. Add the garlic for a richer flavor. Add the remaining butter or margarine to the pan over low heat. Once melted, slowly sprinkle in the flour and stir to form a smooth roux. This will be the base of the sauce. Increase the heat and slowly pour in the milk or cream, stirring constantly. Stir patiently to prevent sticking. Season with salt, pepper, and vegetable stock. Add Provençal herbs or, alternatively, use thyme, oregano, rosemary, and savory. Finally, add the cheese and stir until completely melted. Bring the sauce back to a boil briefly until it reaches the desired consistency. This cheese sauce pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes, but it’s especially good with fresh pasta. A treat you shouldn’t miss.