Indulge in the flavorful world of Cowboy Butter, a versatile and delectable compound butter perfect for dipping or spreading. Elevate your dining experience by pairing this delightful butter with steak, turkey, chicken, or any dish of your choice. Discover the rich combination of herbs, spices, and a hint of citrus that sets Cowboy Butter apart.
What is Cowboy Butter?
Explore the delightful fusion of flavors in Cowboy Butter—a compound butter that serves as both a dipping sauce and a spread. This culinary gem blends butter with an array of herbs and spices, featuring a touch of cayenne pepper and crushed red pepper flakes to add a subtle kick.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Unlock the secrets of Cowboy Butter with these carefully selected ingredients:
Butter: Opt for unsalted butter for the base. Adjust the added kosher salt if using salted butter.
Mustard: Dijon mustard is the preferred choice, but yellow mustard can be a suitable alternative, imparting a slightly different flavor.
Fresh Herbs: Embrace the freshness of parsley and thyme. If using dried herbs, a teaspoon of each can substitute for a tablespoon of fresh.
Lemon Juice: Introduce a subtle lemony note to the butter, enhancing its overall vibrancy.
Spices: Paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes contribute to the well-rounded flavor profile. Feel free to omit the cayenne and red pepper flakes for a milder version.
How to Serve Cowboy Butter
Immerse yourself in the versatility of Cowboy Butter—it’s not just a spread or dip; it’s a culinary companion to various dishes. Pair it with meats such as chicken, steak, or pork, sauté vegetables, elevate pasta or rice, or accompany air fryer French fries. Alternatively, savor the richness by spreading it on a French baguette or your favorite bread slice.
Can I Make this Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare this seasoned butter in advance and store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It remains fresh for up to 5 days.
Freezing Cowboy Butter
Extend the lifespan of Cowboy Butter by freezing it. Shape the butter into a log, wrap it in parchment or wax paper, and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 4 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight when ready to use.
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
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, minced
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅛ teaspoon pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ⅛ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Embark on the journey of crafting Cowboy Butter with these simple steps:
- In a medium bowl, combine softened butter, Dijon mustard, chives, parsley, lemon juice, thyme, garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, cayenne, and red pepper flakes. Mix until well combined. Alternatively, use a food processor for efficient blending.
- To create a compound butter, scoop the mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap. Roll it into a log shape, pressing and shaping as you go. Ensure the butter is completely wrapped in plastic. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap together and refrigerate until firm (2 hours up to overnight).
- For a butter dip, melt the mixture in the microwave in 20-second increments, stirring in between until fully melted.
- Store the Cowboy Butter in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Immerse yourself in the culinary delight of Homemade Cowboy Butter—a savory companion that enhances the flavor of your favorite dishes.
