Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is a culinary marvel that transforms simple dishes into gourmet experiences. Its rich flavor and aromatic qualities make it a go-to for chefs and home cooks alike. Whether you’re drizzling it over pasta, spreading it on warm bread, or using it to sauté vegetables, garlic butter is an essential addition to your kitchen repertoire. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that will elevate your cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields approximately 1 cup of garlic butter, enough for 4-6 servings. Preparation time is 10 minutes, with no cooking time required.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 tablespoon):
– Calories: 100
– Total Fat: 11g
– Saturated Fat: 7g
– Cholesterol: 30mg
– Sodium: 100mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 1g
– Protein: 0g
This nutritional information is based on one serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Start by ensuring the butter is softened at room temperature.
2. In a bowl, combine the softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Add in the chopped parsley for freshness.
4. Sprinkle in salt and black pepper for seasoning.
5. Incorporate the lemon juice to enhance flavor.
6. If desired, add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
7. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
9. Transfer the garlic butter to a piece of parchment paper.
10. Roll it into a log shape and refrigerate until firm.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute unsalted butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version. Fresh garlic can be replaced with garlic powder, though fresh offers the best flavor. Adjust quantities to taste.

Serving and Pairings

Garlic butter pairs wonderfully with freshly baked bread, pasta, grilled vegetables, and seafood. It also enhances roasted meats and can be used as a dipping sauce for appetizers.

Storage and Reheating

Store garlic butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply let it sit at room temperature or microwave briefly until softened.

Cooking Mistakes

• Using cold butter can make it hard to mix.
• Overcooking garlic can lead to a bitter taste.
• Not seasoning enough can dull the flavor.
• Skipping fresh herbs can reduce freshness.
• Using too much lemon juice can overpower the garlic flavor.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
• Experiment with different herbs like thyme or basil.
• Adjust the thickness of the butter by varying the amount of garlic.
• Try adding Parmesan cheese for a richer taste.

FAQs

How long can garlic butter be stored?

Garlic butter can be refrigerated for up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, it can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can substitute garlic powder for fresh garlic, but the flavor will be different. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic.

What dishes can I use garlic butter with?

Garlic butter is versatile; use it with pasta, on bread, with seafood, or even as a topping for steak and vegetables.

Can garlic butter be made vegan?

Absolutely! You can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative. The flavor will still be delicious.

Is garlic butter good for health?

While it adds flavor, garlic butter is high in calories and fat. Use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Garlic butter is a simple yet flavorful addition to many dishes. Its rich taste makes it a favorite among home cooks and chefs alike. With easy preparation and versatile uses, garlic butter is sure to enhance your culinary creations. Enjoy this delightful ingredient and elevate your meals effortlessly!

Garlic Butter

Garlic butter is a rich and savory blend that enhances any dish, perfect for pasta, bread, and more.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Condiment

Cuisine: Global

Keyword: garlic butter, condiment, cooking, recipes

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 1 cup (4-6 servings)

Calories: 100kcal

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 6 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes optional

Instructions

• Ensure the butter is softened at room temperature.
• Combine the softened butter and minced garlic in a bowl.
• Add chopped parsley for freshness.
• Sprinkle in salt and black pepper for seasoning.
• Incorporate lemon juice to enhance flavor.
• Add chili flakes if desired.
• Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
• Transfer the garlic butter to parchment paper.
• Roll it into a log shape and refrigerate until firm.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Fat: 11g