Description
Cowboy Butter is a versatile and flavorful compound butter that adds a kick to almost any dish. It’s a delicious blend of creamy butter, zesty Dijon mustard, fresh herbs, garlic, and a touch of spice. Whether you use it as a savory spread, a flavorful dip, or a finishing sauce for grilled meats and vegetables, Cowboy Butter is sure to elevate your meal.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon coarse Dijon Mustard
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Preparation
Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, thyme, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Mix all ingredients together until well combined. You can also use a food processor for a smoother texture.
Step 3: To make a compound butter log: Scoop the Cowboy Butter onto a piece of plastic wrap.
Step 4: Roll the butter into a log shape, pressing and shaping as you go until the butter is completely wrapped in plastic.
Step 5: Twist the ends of the plastic wrap together and refrigerate until firm (2 hours up to overnight).
Step 6: To make a butter dip: Melt the mixture in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of herbs, spices, and Dijon mustard creates a complex and addictive flavor profile.
- Versatile: Use it as a spread, dip, sauce, or topping for countless dishes.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and ingredients.
- Customizable: Adjust the spices and herbs to your personal preferences.
- Impressive: Elevate your meals with this simple yet elegant addition.
Serving Suggestions
- Spread on grilled steak, chicken, or fish.
- Drizzle over roasted vegetables like potatoes, asparagus, or corn on the cob.
- Serve as a dip for crusty bread or artisan crackers.
- Top a baked potato or sweet potato.
- Stir into scrambled eggs or omelets.
- Melt over popcorn for a savory snack.
Tips
- Use high-quality unsalted butter for the best flavor.
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- Fresh herbs are recommended, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon of each dried herb).
- For a smoother texture, use a food processor to combine the ingredients.
- Cowboy Butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.
- When melting the butter, do so in short increments to prevent it from splattering or burning.
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0-2 minutes (for melting)
Total Time: 10-12 minutes (plus chilling time if making a compound butter log)
Nutrition Information
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 100 per tablespoon
- Protein: Less than 1 gram per tablespoon
- Sodium: Approximately 50-75mg per tablespoon
Conclusion
Cowboy Butter is a fantastic way to add a burst of flavor to your meals. Its versatility and ease of preparation make it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire. Experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature blend, and enjoy the deliciousness that Cowboy Butter brings to the table!
Questions and Answers
Q1: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: While you can use salted butter, it’s generally recommended to use unsalted butter so you have better control over the saltiness of the final product. If you do use salted butter, you may want to reduce the amount of kosher salt in the recipe.
Q2: Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh herbs?
A: Yes, you can substitute dried herbs for fresh herbs. As a general rule, use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs. Keep in mind that the flavor of dried herbs is more concentrated, so you may want to start with a smaller amount and add more to taste.
Q3: How long does Cowboy Butter last in the refrigerator?
A: Cowboy Butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q4: Can I freeze Cowboy Butter?
A: Yes, you can freeze Cowboy Butter for longer storage. Wrap the butter tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
Q5: What’s the best way to melt Cowboy Butter?
A: The best way to melt Cowboy Butter is in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between, until fully melted. You can also melt it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly. Be careful not to overheat or burn the butter.
