What is the essential flavoring in a béarnaise sauce?

Béarnaise sauce is fundamentally a French sauce that is characterized by its distinct flavor profile, which predominantly comes from the use of tarragon. This herb lends the sauce its signature aromatic flavor, which is both slightly sweet and peppery, creating a unique taste experience that complements dishes particularly well, especially proteins like steak and fish.

While other ingredients may contribute to the sauce, such as shallots and white wine, it is the tarragon that provides the primary essence of béarnaise. The herb is often paired with vinegar to enhance its flavor, but tarragon remains the standout ingredient. This makes it essential to the identity of the sauce, setting it apart from other sauces and ensuring that it meets the classical definition of béarnaise.

In contrast, tomato puree, garlic, and ginger each belong to different flavor profiles and culinary uses, which do not align with the traditional essence of béarnaise sauce.