Compound butters are a fantastic way to add flavor and depth to a wide range of dishes. By combining softened butter with various herbs, spices, and other ingredients, you can create a versatile and customizable condiment that’s perfect for enhancing meats, vegetables, and even bread. In this article, we’ll explore three delectable compound butter recipes, along with suggestions and substitutions to help you create your own unique flavor combinations.
- Garlic Herb Compound Butter
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing until well incorporated. Transfer the butter mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper and shape into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm.
Suggestions: Use this flavorful butter to top grilled steaks, chicken, or fish, or spread it on warm, crusty bread for a delicious garlic bread. You can also toss it with cooked pasta for a simple and tasty dish.
Substitutions: Try using different fresh herbs, such as cilantro, dill, or rosemary, to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Citrus Herb Compound Butter
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing until well incorporated. Transfer the butter mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper and shape into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm.
Suggestions: This bright, zesty compound butter is perfect for topping grilled or baked fish, shrimp, or scallops. It also pairs well with roasted or steamed vegetables, such as asparagus, green beans, or carrots.
Substitutions: Experiment with other citrus fruits, like lime or grapefruit, and swap out the herbs for your favorites, such as parsley or dill.
- Honey Cinnamon Compound Butter
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions: Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing until well incorporated. Transfer the butter mixture onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper and shape into a log. Wrap tightly and refrigerate until firm.
Suggestions: This sweet and aromatic compound butter is perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, waffles, or warm muffins. It’s also a delicious addition to oatmeal, sweet potatoes, or roasted winter squash.
Substitutions: Try using maple syrup instead of honey, or experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice.
Conclusion
Compound butters offer a simple and delicious way to elevate your cooking and impress your friends and family. With endless flavor combinations and applications, you can customize your compound butter to suit your taste preferences and the dishes you’re preparing. By experimenting with the recipes above, along with the suggested substitutions, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious assortment of compound butters to enhance your culinary creations.
