Best Basic Bearnaise Sauce

Directions

1. 1
   In a small saucepan, combine tarragon, shallots, vinegar, and wine over medium-high heat.
2. 2
   Reduce by half.
3. 3
   Remove from heat and set aside.
4. 4
   This is your bearnaise reduction.
5. 5
   Fill a blender with hot tap water to warm the vessel.
6. 6
   Pour out water just prior to making the sauce.
7. 7
   Melt the butter in a small sauce pot, swirling constantly, until the butter reaches 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
8. 8
   The butter should be approximately 140 degrees prior to blending.
9. 9
   Place Bearnaise reduction, egg yolks, lemon juice, and hot sauce in the blender.
10. 10
    Blend on high for about 30 seconds.
11. 11
    (This is an important step.
12. 12
    Do not omit.)
13. 13
    Pour about 1 tablespoon of butter into the egg mixture until fully incorporated.
14. 14
    Pour another 1 or 2 tablespoons in the mixture until well incorporated.
15. 15
    In a slow, steady stream pour the rest of the warm butter.
16. 16
    Add mustard powder.
17. 17
    If the sauce starts to look like mayonnaise, add a little warm water with the blender running, about a teaspoon at a time.
18. 18
    Add salt, pepper, and hot sauce to taste.
19. 19
    The sauce should be thick but pourable.
20. 20
    Add warm water to thin as needed.
21. 21
    Sauce should taste buttery, tangy, and as spicy as desired with just a hint of egginess and, of course, a strong-but-not-overpowering tarragon flavor.
22. 22
    Pour the sauce into a slightly warmed pitcher or gravy boat and cover with cellophane.