To Keep Sauces Warm

When a sauce has to stand for some time before serving, place the saucepan containing it in a larger one with hot, not boiling, water, or in a bain-marie, and cover the saucepan to prevent a skin forming. With thicker sauces, a spoonful of liquid - water, stock or milk - or melted butter may be run over the top. Just before serving, whisk this protective covering into the sauce.