Southern Béchamel Sauce

• 1/2 cup butter
• 2 medium shallots, minced
• 2 garlic cloves, pressed
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

1. Melt butter in a heavy saucepan over low heat; add shallots and garlic, and sauté 1 minute. Whisk in flour until smooth. Cook 1 minute, whisking constantly. Increase heat to medium. Gradually whisk in milk; cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, 5 to 7 minutes or until mixture is thickened and bubbly. Stir in salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Note: Mixture can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to two days. Warm sauce over low heat before using.