How To Make Mignonette Sauce: A Simple Recipe For Oysters
By Lisa Bot | Published 29 July 2024
What Is Mignonette Sauce?
Mignonette sauce is a simple condiment made with vinegar, minced shallots, and cracked pepper. It's a classic accompaniment for raw oysters, adding a bit of tangy flavour that complements the briny taste of the oysters.
The name "mignonette" comes from a French term that originally referred to a sachet of peppercorns, cloves, and spices. Today, it refers to this specific sauce used in seafood dishes.
Mignonette Sauce Ingredients
Making mignonette sauce at home is easy and only requires a few ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- Shallots: Finely minced shallots give the sauce its distinctive flavour.
- Vinegar: You can use red wine vinegar, white wine vinegar, or champagne vinegar.
- Cracked Pepper: Freshly cracked black or white peppercorns add a bit of spice.
Types Of Vinegar For Mignonette Sauce
The type of vinegar you use can change the taste of your mignonette sauce. Here are some popular choices:
- Red Wine Vinegar: This is the most common vinegar used for mignonette sauce, providing a robust flavour.
- White Wine Vinegar: This vinegar is a bit lighter and can give the sauce a more delicate taste.
- Champagne Vinegar: This option adds a touch of elegance with a slightly sweet and bubbly flavour.
How To Make Classic Mignonette Sauce
Here's a simple mignonette sauce recipe you can make at home:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Mince the shallots finely. It's best to do this by hand to get the right texture.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the minced shallots with the vinegar of your choice. Add freshly cracked pepper to taste.
- Let It Sit: Cover the bowl and let the sauce sit in the fridge for at least an hour. This helps the flavours blend together.
Pairing Mignonette Sauce With Seafood
Mignonette sauce is best known as a topping for raw oysters. The sharpness of the vinegar and shallots balances the briny and creamy texture of the oysters.
Here are some tips for pairing mignonette sauce with seafood:
- Oysters: Serve the sauce in a small bowl alongside a platter of fresh, shucked oysters. Let guests spoon a small amount onto each oyster before eating.
- Other Seafood: Mignonette sauce can also be used with clams or prawns, adding a burst of flavour to these seafood dishes.
If you'd like to try mignonette sauce in Sydney, Cirrus Dining in Barangaroo serves Royal Miyagi Pacific Oysters with a yuzu kosho mignonette and lemon.
How To Serve Mignonette Sauce
Serving mignonette sauce is straightforward. Here’s how to do it:
- Preparation: Ensure your oysters are fresh and properly shucked. Place them on a bed of ice to keep them cold.
- Serving: Put the mignonette sauce in a small bowl with a spoon. Arrange the oysters around the bowl on a platter.
- Enjoy: Guests can spoon a small amount of mignonette sauce onto each oyster before eating.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is mignonette sauce?
Mignonette sauce is a simple sauce made from vinegar, minced shallots, and cracked pepper. It is traditionally served with raw oysters.
How do you pronounce mignonette sauce?
Mignonette sauce is pronounced "min-yuh-net."
Can you make mignonette sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make mignonette sauce ahead of time. In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight helps the flavours meld together.
How long does mignonette sauce last?
Mignonette sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just make sure it is covered properly.
What type of vinegar is best for mignonette sauce?
Red wine vinegar is the most commonly used, but white wine vinegar and champagne vinegar are also great options.
Conclusion
Making mignonette sauce at home is quick and easy. This classic condiment, made with just a few simple ingredients, is the perfect way to enhance the flavour of raw oysters.
Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a seafood treat at home, mignonette sauce is sure to impress. Try out different types of vinegar to find your favourite version and enjoy the delightful combination of oysters and mignonette sauce.
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