Pin it
Discover the secret behind restaurant-quality meals with this incredible Cowboy Butter recipe. This versatile compound butter combines fresh herbs, seasonings, and rich butter into a flavor powerhouse that elevates everything from steaks to vegetables. A staple in professional kitchens, this enhanced butter adds depth and richness to any dish.
Origins and Background
This enhanced butter draws inspiration from classic French compound butters while incorporating bold American flavors. The combination creates a perfectly balanced blend of herbs, spices and creamy butter that complements both grilled meats and casual breads equally well.
Essential Ingredients
- Butter: High-quality unsalted butter, softened
- Dijon Mustard: Adds essential tang and depth
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley, chives, and thyme
- Citrus: Fresh lemon zest and juice
- Seasonings: Carefully balanced warm spices
Serving Suggestions
This compound butter excels as a finishing touch for grilled steaks, creating an instant sauce as it melts. Spread it on warm bread for an elevated appetizer, toss with hot pasta, or use it to enhance roasted vegetables. The applications are endless in both casual and refined cooking.
Storage Tips
Form the prepared butter into a log and wrap tightly in parchment paper, then plastic wrap. Refrigerated, it maintains peak flavor for 5 days. For extended storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Slice portions while frozen for convenience.
Preparation Method
- Basic Mixing
- Combine softened butter with seasonings using a stand mixer or manual mixing.
- Proper Forming
- Shape into a uniform log using plastic wrap.
- Sauce Preparation
- Gently melt portions as needed for a pourable sauce.
Chef's Notes
Pin it
Recipe Variations
Adapt the basic recipe by adjusting the heat level, incorporating different fresh herbs, or adding grated hard cheeses. Whole grain mustard offers an interesting texture variation, while fresh rosemary provides an aromatic alternative to the traditional herb blend.
Complementary Dishes
This versatile butter enhances grilled seafood, transforms roasted vegetables, and creates exceptional garlic bread. Use it to finish pan sauces or melt over baked potatoes. The butter adds professional flair to any dish it accompanies.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage ensures optimal flavor preservation. Wrap tightly in parchment paper followed by plastic wrap for refrigerator storage. For freezer storage, pre-slice the butter log to allow for easy portioning without complete thawing.
Ingredient List
- Butter: 1 cup unsalted, room temperature
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Fresh Herbs: Generous portions of parsley, thyme, chives
- Seasonings: Balanced blend of paprika, cayenne, red pepper
- Lemon: Fresh juice and zest
- Garlic: Freshly minced
Recommended Pairings
This compound butter particularly shines when paired with grilled steaks, roasted chicken, or holiday roasts. It creates an exceptional finish for mashed potatoes and transforms simple vegetable sides into elegant accompaniments.
Entertaining Tips
Create an impressive butter board presentation by arranging sliced compound butter alongside artisanal breads, rolls, and roasted vegetables. This interactive serving style encourages guests to explore different combinations while adding an engaging element to gatherings.
Pin it
Final Notes
This compound butter recipe represents a fundamental enhancement to any kitchen's repertoire. Its versatility and ability to elevate simple dishes make it an invaluable addition to both everyday cooking and special occasions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap out fresh herbs for dried ones?
- While fresh herbs give the best taste, you can use dried if necessary. A third of the fresh amount should be enough since they're stronger.
- → How long will this butter last?
- You can keep it in the fridge for about 5 days if stored in a sealed container. Let it sit out to soften before using it as a spread.
- → What are the best foods to pair with this butter?
- Spread it on warm bread or rolls, or melt it for dipping vegetables, steak, seafood, or even grilled meats.
- → Is it okay to freeze herb butter?
- Yes, just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge before serving.
- → What if I prefer mild flavors?
- Cut back on or leave out the spicy ingredients like cayenne and red pepper flakes. The other flavors will still shine through!