Imagine transforming ordinary butter into a culinary masterpiece that can elevate any dish from mundane to magnificent! This Garlic Herb Compound Butter is not just a condiment; it's a flavor explosion waiting to revolutionize your cooking. With just a few fresh ingredients and minimal effort, you'll create a gourmet spread that will have your family and friends thinking you've secretly trained in a French culinary school.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 5 mins
Cuisine: French
Serves: 1 cup
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Remove the unsalted butter from the refrigerator and allow it to soften at room temperature for approximately 30-45 minutes. The butter should be soft enough to easily mix but not completely melted.
- While the butter is softening, thoroughly wash and pat dry the fresh herbs: parsley, thyme, and rosemary to remove any dirt or debris.
- Finely mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife or a garlic press, ensuring the pieces are uniform and small.
- Carefully chop the fresh herbs, discarding any tough stems. Aim for a fine, consistent chop to distribute the herbs evenly throughout the butter.
- In a medium mixing bowl, place the softened butter and add the minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and rosemary.
- Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the butter and herbs.
- Using a spatula or fork, thoroughly mix all ingredients until completely combined, ensuring the herbs and garlic are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Transfer the compound butter onto a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape into a log, twisting the ends to seal.
- Refrigerate the compound butter for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld and butter to firm up.
- When ready to serve, slice into rounds or use as a spread on bread, grilled meats, vegetables, or melted over steak.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the perfect texture and easy mixing.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh herbs over dried to get the most vibrant, intense flavor.
- Mince Garlic Finely: The smaller and more uniform your garlic, the more evenly it will distribute through the butter.
- Chill Thoroughly: Refrigerating allows the flavors to meld and creates a firmer, more spreadable compound butter.
- Get Creative with Serving: Try melting over grilled steak, spreading on fresh bread, or using as a finishing touch for roasted vegetables.
- Make Ahead Friendly: This butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or frozen for several months, making it a perfect make-ahead condiment.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 102kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg