Panada

Panada is a creamy base made from butter, flour, and milk, perfect for thickening soups and sauces. This simple recipe yields a smooth texture that enhances a variety of dishes.

09 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2.50 cups milk (1% fat)
Panada

Panada is a simple and versatile base used in many recipes, serving as a thickening agent for soups, sauces, and a range of other dishes. With just a few basic ingredients such as butter, flour, and milk, you can create a smooth and creamy panada that enhances the texture and flavor of your culinary creations.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Measure out the butter, flour, and milk. Having everything ready to go ensures a smooth cooking process.
2. Melt the Butter: Place a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. Add the 1/2 cup of butter to the saucepan. Allow the butter to melt completely, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon or spatula to prevent it from burning.
3. Make the Roux: Once the butter has melted, reduce the heat to low and gradually add the 3/4 cup of all-purpose white wheat flour to the saucepan. Stir continuously to combine the butter and flour, ensuring the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Continue to cook the roux for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes slightly golden and emits a nutty aroma. This helps to cook out the raw flour taste.
4. Add the Milk: Gradually pour the 2.5 cups of milk into the roux, stirring constantly. Start by adding the milk in small increments, about 1/4 cup at a time, and mix thoroughly after each addition. This helps to prevent lumps from forming and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
5. Cook Until Thickened: Once all the milk has been added and the mixture is well combined, increase the heat to medium. Continue to cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens to a creamy, sauce-like consistency. This should take about 5-7 minutes. The panada is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clean line when you run your finger through it.
6. Season (Optional): At this stage, you can season your panada with a pinch of salt and pepper, or any other spices and herbs you prefer, to taste. This step is optional but can enhance the flavor of the final dish.
7. Serve or Use In Recipes: The panada is now ready to use. It can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, such as thickening soups, sauces, or fillings for pastries and other baked goods. If not using immediately, allow it to cool slightly before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using.

Making panada at home is both quick and easy, requiring only a few staple ingredients. This versatile mixture can be used to enrich a variety of dishes, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can create a velvety panada that adds both texture and flavor to your favorite recipes.

Panada FAQ:

How long should I cook the roux for a panada?

Cook the roux for about 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes slightly golden and emits a nutty aroma. This helps eliminate the raw flour taste.

What should the texture of the panada be when it's done?

The panada should have a creamy, sauce-like consistency that coats the back of a spoon and leaves a clean line when you run your finger through it. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes after adding the milk.

Can I substitute whole milk for 1% milk in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole milk for 1% milk. The panada will be richer and creamier, but the overall cooking process and consistency should remain the same.

How do I store panada if not using it immediately?

Allow the panada to cool slightly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before using in recipes.

What pan size should I use to make panada?

A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for making panada. This size allows for even heat distribution while cooking the roux and mixing in the milk.

Tips:

- Ensure you whisk continuously when adding the milk to avoid lumps.

- Use a fine-mesh sieve if any lumps do form, to get a smooth final mixture.

- Adjust the thickness by adding more or less milk according to your preference.

- For added flavor, consider incorporating spices or a pinch of salt into the roux.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 350kcal
Protein 8g
Carbohydrates 24g
Fiber 0.70g
Sugar 8g
Fat 24g

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