3-4 tbsp. butter or safflower oil
3 tbsp. whole wheat or unbleached flour
1/2 c. water
3/4 c. soy milk
1/2 tsp. salt

Melt butter or heat oil in saucepan. Add any herbs or vegetables at this time. Saute 2 or 3 minutes. Next add flour, stirring well. Let cook at medium high heat another 2 to 3 minutes.

With a whisk, add water, then milk, stirring frequently to avoid lumps. Alas - if lumps do occur, a blender can remedy the situation.