Making flavored butters, also known as compound butters, is one of my favorite ways to jazz up plain old sauteed vegetables. Compound butter is a gourmet take on an everyday ingredient that elevates your cooking — and makes a great present to hand out to friends and family. It’s almost too easy, and using it where you would regular butter in your cooking is a sure way to wow the crowd!
Recipes for compound butter are almost too easy: all you need to do is soften the butter, finely chop any herbs you’re using, and then use a wooden spoon to stir the herbs and spices into the butter. Store the butter in the fridge and use it in your cooking for as long as it lasts!
Here are some of our favorite flavored butter recipes to try at home.
Flavored Butter Variations:
All of these recipes make 1/2 cup of flavored butter and take approximately 5 minutes to make.
Gochujang Butter: A Spicy Serenade for Your Taste Buds
Elevate the ordinary with the bold flavors of Gochujang Butter. Dive into a fusion experience where the creamy richness of butter is complemented by the robust heat of Gochujang, a Korean chili paste, with the refreshing crisp of scallions. It’s a symphony of East meets West, bringing a unique kick to your table. This is a delightful treat that will have you questioning why you’ve been settling for plain butter all along.
Why Gochujang Butter Works:
- Balanced Fusion: Gochujang lends its signature fermented chili kick, which is perfectly mellowed down by the creamy texture of the butter. The outcome? A spicy yet silky spread that’s just waiting to enhance your favorite dishes.
- Versatility: From grilled steaks to your morning toast, this butter can be slathered, dolloped, or melted across an array of dishes, making it an instant favorite for both daily meals and special occasions.
- Easy Prep, Big Rewards: With just three simple ingredients, the effort-to-impact ratio is unbeatable. A few minutes of prep transports plain butter into a gourmet condiment that’s hard to resist.
Fun Facts About This Butter: Gochujang is a rich source of capsaicin, a compound found in spicy peppers responsible for their fiery taste. Capsaicin has been researched for its potential health benefits including anti-inflammatory properties, boosting metabolism, and even pain relief. So, not only does this butter pack a flavor punch, but you’re also getting a sprinkle of wellness with each spread!
The Best Ways To Use This Butter: Unleash a Korean twist on your classics by melting this fiery Gochujang Butter over a sizzling steak or slathering on a grilled cheese sandwich. The blend of spicy gochujang and aromatic scallions makes for an unexpected and delightful pairing with barbecued meats, elevating your BBQ game. Alternatively, consider stirring it into a bowl of freshly cooked ramen or pasta to give it a zesty kick and a buttery finish.
Customization Ideas: To infuse a smokier undertone, consider blending in a touch of smoked paprika. For those craving an even fiercer kick, a splash of sriracha or some crushed red pepper flakes can be a good addition.
Storing and Shelf-Life Tips: Store in an airtight container or well-wrapped in cling film in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you’re considering longer storage, you can freeze the butter in ice cube trays and then transfer the frozen cubes to a zip-top bag, storing them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
How to Make Gochujang Butter:
- 1 stick of salted butter, softened
- 3 tsp of gochujang
- 2 scallions, finely chopped
Mix gochujang and scallions into softened butter.
Garlicky Dill Butter: A Herbaceous Romance for Every Meal
There’s magic to be found when garlic meets dill in the heart of creamy butter. Unveiling our Garlicky Dill Butter — a harmonious blend that promises to elevate every meal. Think of the whispers of dill intertwined with the bold declaration of garlic, creating a symphony on your palate. It’s not just any flavored butter; it’s a culinary crescendo waiting to happen.
Why Garlicky Dill Butter Works:
- Classic Companionship: Garlic and dill are culinary soulmates, and when merged with the richness of butter, they bring forth a time-tested flavor profile that’s impossible to resist.
- Universal Enhancer: Whether it’s a piece of seared salmon, a bowl of mashed potatoes, or a slice of rustic bread, this butter lends its charm effortlessly, ensuring each dish reaches its flavorful zenith.
- Quick Transformation: Simplicity is its strength. With a trio of ingredients and a few moments of mixing, you get a gourmet experience. Suddenly, every meal feels like it’s been touched by a chef’s magic.
Fun Facts About This Butter: Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which has potent medicinal properties. When garlic is crushed or chewed, allicin is formed and is known for its ability to combat sickness, including the common cold. Dill, on the other hand, contains compounds called monoterpenes that possess antioxidant properties. Together, they don’t just taste good but potentially offer health-boosting benefits!
The Best Ways To Use This Butter: When the rich essence of garlic meets the herbal aroma of dill, you get a butter that’s destined for seafood. Melt this Garlicky Dill Butter over baked or grilled salmon, or toss it with some shrimp just before serving. It’s also a fantastic companion to freshly baked bread, turning your ordinary loaf into a garlic bread masterpiece that’s bursting with dill-infused goodness. And don’t forget about those potato dishes; a dollop of this will turn your mashed or roasted potatoes into a gourmet side.
Customization Ideas: For a fresh zest, incorporate some lemon rind or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Want a creamier texture? Blend in a touch of cream cheese or feta.
Storing and Shelf-Life Tips: Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 10 days. For extended freshness, follow the freezing method mentioned above, ensuring you label and date your storage bag.
How To Make Garlicky Dill Butter:
- 1 stick of salted butter, softened
- 2 tsp of dried dill
- 1 tsp of garlic powder
Mix the dill and garlic powder into the softened butter.
Rosemary Butter: The Timeless Dance of Herbs and Cream
Sometimes, the most profound flavors are born from the simplest pairings. Enter the Rosemary Butter – where the age-old charm of rosemary meets the silky allure of butter. It’s the kind of accompaniment that feels right in any season, with any dish.
Why This Works:
- Elevated Simplicity: The aromatic pungency of rosemary, with its pine-like scent and flavor, lends a touch of rustic elegance to the rich butter, creating a spread that’s straightforward yet sophisticated.
- Garlic’s Gentle Boost: Incorporating grated garlic not only provides a subtle spicy undertone but also acts as a bridge, harmonizing the butter and rosemary to create a unified taste sensation.
- Versatility Unleashed: Whether you’re spreading it on a fresh baguette, melting over steamed vegetables, or giving your steak a flavorful finish, this butter adapts and enhances, making it a must-have for versatile home cooks.
Fun Facts About This Butter: Rosemary isn’t just a fragrant herb; it’s a powerhouse of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. One of its key components, rosmarinic acid, has been studied for its potential in improving digestion and enhancing memory and concentration. Smearing this butter might just give your brain a tiny, flavorful boost!
The Best Ways To Use This Butter: This herbaceous Rosemary Butter is a match made in heaven for your roasted dishes. Brush over lamb chops before grilling or roasting to allow the flavors of garlic and rosemary to deeply infuse the meat. Alternatively, consider kneading it into your bread dough or simply slathering it on warm focaccia. For a Mediterranean twist, drizzle this butter over oven-roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
Customization Ideas: For a Mediterranean twist, mix in some finely chopped olives or sundried tomatoes. A sprinkle of parmesan can also lend a lovely savory depth.
Storing and Shelf-Life Tips: Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 10 days. The freezing method applies here too, keeping in mind that fresh herbs like rosemary can slightly change in flavor profile when frozen.
How To Make Rosemary Butter:
- 1 stick of salted butter, softened
- 2 tsp of finely chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 clove of garlic, grated
Mix the chopped rosemary and garlic into softened butter.
Miso Butter: A Fusion of Tradition and Creamy Indulgence
Journey into a realm where the profound depth of miso dances with the creamy texture of butter. Here, the umami-rich notes of fermented soybeans blend seamlessly with the mellow richness of butter, crafting an experience that’s as soulful as it is delightful.
Why This Works:
- Umami Delight: White miso, with its savory-sweet profile, enhances the butter’s innate creaminess while introducing a delightful layer of umami that’s hard to resist.
- Garlic’s Whisper: A pinch of garlic powder adds a soft echo of warmth, ensuring that the miso doesn’t overpower but rather plays harmoniously with the butter’s flavor.
- Universal Enhancer: From lathering on fresh bread to finishing off grilled vegetables or fish, this miso-infused butter is versatile enough to elevate a multitude of dishes, making it a culinary treasure in any kitchen.
Fun Facts About This Butter: Miso, a traditional Japanese seasoning, undergoes a fermentation process that’s not only responsible for its umami flavor but also makes it a source of beneficial probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut. So, when you’re savoring the umami depth of this butter, remember you’re also indulging in some gut-friendly love!
The Best Ways To Use This Butter: The umami-rich Miso Butter is a versatile gem that’s perfect for adding depth to a variety of dishes. Melt it over roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus for a delightful twist. It can also be spread on salmon before broiling, creating a savory glaze that complements the fish perfectly. And if you’re in the mood for a warm, comforting bowl of soup, stir a spoonful of this butter into your broth to elevate its flavor profile.
Customization Ideas: You can experiment with different types of miso – red miso for a bolder taste or a dash of soy sauce for an added umami punch. Toasted sesame seeds could also provide a delightful crunch.
Storing and Shelf-Life Tips: Given miso’s natural preservative qualities, this butter can be refrigerated in a sealed container for up to three weeks. Freezing is also an option, especially if you’ve made a larger batch.
How to Make Miso Butter:
- 1 stick of salted butter, softened
- 2 TBSP of white miso paste
- Pinch of garlic powder
Mix the miso and garlic powder into the softened butter.
Spicy Jalapeno Butter: A Zesty Kick to Your Culinary Repertoire
Dive into the electrifying world of zesty butter, where the vivacious heat of jalapeno finds its comforting counterpart in creamy butter. This isn’t just a spice kick; it’s a harmonious blend of warmth met with the smooth caress of butter, brightened by a burst of citrusy lime.
Why This Works:
- Dynamic Duo: The pronounced heat of the jalapeno seamlessly complements the butter’s creamy nature, creating a balanced yet fiery experience in every spread.
- Citrusy Charm: The addition of lime juice introduces a citrusy zing, cutting through the richness and ensuring the butter doesn’t feel too heavy on the palate.
- Gastronomic Versatility: Perfect for grilled corn, a luscious steak, or just a simple toast, this butter is bound to become a favorite, adding a spicy twist to an array of dishes.
Fun Facts About This Butter: Jalapeños, like their spicier pepper cousins, contain capsaicin which we earlier learned has health benefits. But did you know that jalapeños also contain a good amount of vitamin C? In fact, chili peppers were found to contain nearly double the amount of vitamin C found in oranges. A spread of this butter might just be a zesty defense against colds!
The Best Ways To Use This Butter: Bring the heat and zest of Latin cuisine to your dishes with the Spicy Jalapeño Butter. Perfect for corn on the cob, this butter melds into the sweet kernels, giving them a spicy kick. Use it to brush over chicken or shrimp skewers before grilling for a fiery touch. Or imagine a baked potato, bursting at its seams, oozing with this spicy, tangy butter – it’s a side dish that could steal the show.
Customization Ideas: For a smoky version, roast the jalapeños before dicing. Adding some finely chopped cilantro can introduce a fresh dimension, while a sprinkle of cumin could provide an earthy depth.
Storing and Shelf-Life Tips: Refrigerate in a well-sealed container for up to 10 days. If you’ve used fresh lime juice, aim to use the butter within a week. As with the others, freezing works for longer storage.
How to Make Spicy Jalapeno Butter:
- 1 stick of salted butter butter, softened
- ½ jalapeno, diced very finely
- 1 tsp lime juice
Mix the jalapeno and lime juice into the softened butter.
Thai Inspired Butter: A Culinary Trip to the Heart of Thailand
Venture into the aromatic avenues of Thai cuisine with this innovative butter, where every spread feels like a journey through bustling Bangkok streets. Envision the harmonious play of sweet basil, the gentle heat of serrano pepper, and the invigorating zest of ginger coming together. With this butter, you’re not just adding a condiment—you’re adding a passport stamp to your culinary adventure.
Why This Works:
- A Flavorful Fusion: The basil brings forth a sweet, anise-like quality that balances perfectly with the peppery bite of the serrano, creating a multi-dimensional taste profile.
- Zesty Ginger: Ginger offers a fresh, aromatic punch, ensuring that the butter has depth, character, and an element of surprise with its warming undertone.
- Versatile Vibe: Beyond just toast, imagine this butter melting over grilled shrimp, chicken skewers, or even enhancing a simple bowl of noodles. The Thai-inspired fusion turns everyday dishes into something exotic.
Fun Facts About This Butter: Ginger, a key component in this butter, contains a compound called gingerol. Gingerol is responsible for much of the medicinal properties of ginger, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Studies have even shown gingerol to be effective against nausea, especially morning sickness. This Thai-inspired treat is more than just tantalizing for the taste buds; it’s a fusion of nature’s best!
The Best Ways To Use This Butter: Travel to Southeast Asia with each bite by using the Thai Inspired Butter. It’s an exotic choice to spread over grilled seafood, especially shrimp and white fish, letting the flavors of basil, serrano pepper, and ginger shine. Consider tossing it with some freshly cooked noodles, or stir-frying with vegetables for a quick and aromatic Thai-inspired dish. The playful dance of spicy, sweet, and herby makes for a unique flavor profile in every dish it graces.
Customization Ideas: Incorporate some zesty kaffir lime leaves or a dash of fish sauce for an even more authentic Thai flavor. Crushed peanuts can add a delightful texture and flavor.
Storing and Shelf-Life Tips: Given the fresh ingredients in this butter, aim to consume within a week when stored in the fridge in a sealed container. The freezing method remains consistent for those wanting to store for longer periods
How to Make Thai Inspired Butter:
- 1 stick of salted butter, softened
- 6 basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 serrano pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
Mix basil leaves, serrano pepper, and grated ginger into softened butter.
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