Smoked Gouda Bechamel - cooking recipe

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/4 lb smoked gouda cheese, coarsely shredded
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg
salt & freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter.
Add the flour and whisk over moderately high heat for 30 seconds.
Add the milk and bring to a boil, whisking constantly.
Cook over moderate heat, whisking constantly, until thickened, 4 to 5 minutes.
Add the cream, smoked Gouda, paprika and nutmeg and whisk just until the cheese is melted, about 2 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper.
Use right away or cover directly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.