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This homemade cowboy butter combines herbs, garlic, and zesty seasonings into a rich compound butter perfect for elevating steaks, seafood, or vegetables.
The combination of fresh herbs and citrus transforms simple butter into something extraordinary.
Essential Ingredients:
- Unsalted butter: Quality matters
- Fresh herbs: Parsley and thyme
- Fresh garlic: Don't use pre-minced
- Lemon: Both juice and zest
- Dijon mustard: Adds depth
- Worcestershire: Creates umami
- Smoked paprika: Provides warmth
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Detailed Instructions:
- Prepare Base
- Cut butter into pieces
- Melt gently in microwave
- Keep warm, not hot
- Add Worcestershire and Dijon
- Add Seasonings
- Mix in minced garlic
- Add fresh chopped herbs
- Incorporate lemon juice and zest
- Season with spices
- Adjust Flavors
- Taste and adjust heat
- Balance acid levels
- Add salt if needed
- Mix thoroughly
- Store or Serve
- Use immediately warm
- Cool for spreading
- Shape for storage
- Wrap tightly
My discovery of adding both lemon zest and juice creates the perfect bright note against rich butter.
Serving Suggestions:
Perfect on steaks, potatoes, bread, or vegetables.
Storage Tips:
Freeze in log or portions up to 6 months.
Make-Ahead Options:
Prepare and shape ahead; freeze in portions.
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Chef's Tips:
- Use fresh ingredients
- Mince garlic finely
- Balance flavors carefully
- Store properly
Years of perfecting compound butters taught me that fresh ingredients and proper temperature control create the most flavorful results.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How long does it keep?
- Up to 2 weeks in fridge, 6 months frozen.
- → Best way to serve?
- Room temperature for spreading, melted for drizzling.
- → Can I use salted butter?
- Yes, reduce added salt accordingly.
- → What to serve it with?
- Steak, chicken, fish, vegetables, or bread.
- → Can I use dried herbs?
- Yes, use one-third amount of fresh herbs.