2 tbsp. butter
1 c. milk
Dash of white pepper
2 tbsp. flour
1/4 tsp. salt

Melt butter in a heavy saucepan; add flour and stir until smooth. Cook 1 minute stirring constantly, gradually add milk and cook over medium heat stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly. Stir in desired seasoning:

1. Cheddar cheese: stir 1 cup shredded cheese and 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard.

2. Curry sauce: stir in 1 1/2 teaspoon curry powder and 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger with salt and pepper.

3. Parsley sauce: stir in 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley with salt.

4. Veloute sauce: substitute 1 cup chicken, beef, or fish broth for milk.