Roux

Take a look at these tips for creating Roux:

Step 1.

1. Begin a roux by stirring together the flour and cooking oil, as shown. Then cook for 5 minutes over medium-high heat.

Step 2.

2. Reduce the heat to medium so you can better control the cooking. For a light roux, heat about 10 minutes more. Stop cooking when your roux is reddish brown, as shown. Use this mildly flavored roux for fish and seafood dishes.

Step 3.

3. For a dark roux, cook on medium about 15 minutes. Here's what your roux should look like. Use this darker version for more robust meat and poultry dishes.