Italian Compound Butter is a flavorful and versatile spread that can elevate any meal. Made with rich, creamy butter blended with fresh basil, garlic, and sundried tomatoes, this compound butter is perfect for spreading on bread, using in cooking, or as a finishing touch on meats and vegetables. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, and it brings a burst of Italian flavors to your dishes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened to room temperature
- 2 tablespoons basil, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ tablespoon garlic, freshly minced
- 2 tablespoons sundried tomatoes, drained and finely chopped
- 1 loaf French bread or baguette bread
Instructions:
- Prepare the Butter:
- In a medium bowl, add the softened butter. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to ensure it mixes well with the other ingredients.
- Add the Flavors:
- Add the finely chopped basil, minced garlic, finely chopped sundried tomatoes, and salt to the butter.
- Using a fork or a hand mixer, thoroughly combine all the ingredients until they are evenly distributed throughout the butter.
- Shape the Butter:
- Place a sheet of plastic wrap on a flat surface. Spoon the butter mixture onto the plastic wrap and shape it into a log or any desired shape.
- Wrap the butter tightly in the plastic wrap, twisting the ends to seal it. Refrigerate the butter for at least 1 hour, or until it is firm.
- Serve:
- Slice the loaf of French bread or baguette into individual pieces.
- Spread the Italian compound butter generously on each slice of bread.
- Serve immediately, or toast the bread with the butter spread for a warm, flavorful appetizer.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Herb Variations: You can experiment with other fresh herbs such as parsley, oregano, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
- Add Some Zest: For a citrusy twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the butter mixture.
- Storage: The compound butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply slice off the amount you need and let it come to room temperature before using.
- Roasted Garlic: For a sweeter, milder garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
- Cheese Addition: Add 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese to the butter mixture for an extra layer of savory flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil? A: Yes, you can use dried basil, but fresh basil provides a more vibrant flavor. If using dried basil, use about 1 tablespoon.
Q: How do I soften butter quickly if I forgot to take it out of the refrigerator? A: Cut the butter into small cubes and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. You can also microwave it on low power in 10-second intervals, being careful not to melt it.
Q: Can I use unsalted butter for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just be sure to adjust the amount of added salt to taste.
Q: What other dishes can I use this compound butter with? A: Italian compound butter is versatile and can be used to enhance the flavor of grilled meats, roasted vegetables, pasta, or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Q: Can I make this butter without sundried tomatoes? A: Yes, if you prefer or do not have sundried tomatoes on hand, you can omit them or substitute with another flavorful ingredient like roasted red peppers.
Italian Compound Butter is a delightful and easy way to add a burst of flavor to your meals. Whether you’re spreading it on fresh bread, using it to enhance the flavor of meats and vegetables, or incorporating it into your cooking, this butter will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. With its blend of fresh basil, garlic, and sundried tomatoes, it brings a taste of Italy to your table. Enjoy this simple yet delicious addition to your culinary repertoire!
