Cheese Sauce

Ingredients

• 1  bay leaf 
• 3  peppercorns whole black
• 3 tablespoons flour all-purpose
• 1.3 cups milk 1% low-fat
• 4 ounces cheddar cheese shredded extra-sharp finely

Equipment

• frying pan
• whisk
• sieve

Directions

1. Combine the first 3 ingredients in a medium sauce-pan, and cook over low heat 5 minutes.
2. Remove from heat, and cool 5 minutes. Strain milk mixture through a sieve, discarding solids.
3. Place flour in pan; gradually add 1/4 cup milk, stirring with a whisk until blended. Cook over low heat 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add remaining milk; cook until thick (about 5 minutes), stirring constantly.
5. Remove from heat, and add cheese, stirring until melted.