Smoked Gouda Bechamel

Another recipe from Food & Wine

• Ready In: 10 mins
• Yields: 1 1/2 cups

Ingredients

• 2  tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2  tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1⁄2 cups  whole milk
• 1⁄4 cup heavy cream
• 1⁄4 lb smoked gouda cheese, coarsely shredded
• 1⁄2 teaspoon  smoked paprika (optional)
• 1  pinch  of freshly grated nutmeg
•  salt & freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter.
2. Add the flour and whisk over moderately high heat for 30 seconds.
3. Add the milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly.
4. Cook over moderate heat, whisking constantly, until thickened, 4 to 5 minutes.
5. Add the cream, smoked Gouda, paprika and nutmeg and whisk just until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Use right away or cover directly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.