What is the primary component of a Bernaise sauce?

The primary component of a Béarnaise sauce is yolk and vinegar. Béarnaise is an emulsion sauce, typically made with clarified butter, egg yolks, white wine vinegar, and shallots, along with herbs such as tarragon. The yolks provide the necessary richness and help create the stable emulsion with the clarified butter, while the vinegar adds acidity, which is a key flavor component.

This sauce is often associated with steak and other rich meats, where its velvety texture and bright flavor contrast beautifully. Understanding the role of yolk and vinegar in this classic French sauce highlights not just the balance of flavors but also the technique involved in creating emulsions, which is fundamental in many sauce preparations in culinary practice.