Makes 2 cups. Serves 4. 1/2 cup per serving. This basic French sauce can be used with poultry, meat or vegetables.

2 tbsp. acceptable vegetable oil
3 tbsp. all-purpose flour
2 c. skim milk
1/4 tsp. salt (optional)
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 bay leaf (optional)

In a 1-quart saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Blend in flour. Cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute, or until mixture becomes foamy. Gradually add milk. Stir in seasonings and bay leaf. Stir vigorously with a wooden spoon until mixture thickens, 5 to 8 minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving.

NUTRIENT ANALYSIS: Calories 61.70kcal, Protein 2.38gm, Carbohydrate, 5.15gm, Total fat - Saturated 0.51gm, Polyunsaturated 2.02gm, Monounsaturated 9.85gm, Cholesterol 1.22mg, Sodium 98.55mg.