Cowboy butter isn’t your average condiment; it’s a rich, zesty mix of butter, garlic, mustard, lemon, and herbs that takes everything from grilled steak to steamed veggies up a notch. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just adding a little extra punch to your weeknight dinner, this easy recipe comes together in minutes and brings serious flavor. It’s the kind of thing that once you try, you’ll want to keep a batch on hand at all times.
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Ingredients
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon (~5 g) Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon (~5 ml) lemon juice and ½ teaspoon (~1 g) lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ⅛ teaspoon (~0.25 g) crushed red pepper flakes
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Preparation Method
1. Softening the Butter
Begin by ensuring your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth, easily mixable base. If you’re short on time, cut the butter into small pieces and let it sit out, or use brief intervals in the microwave to soften it without melting.
2. Combining the Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, add the softened butter. Introduce finely minced garlic, 1 teaspoon (~5 g) Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon (~5 ml) lemon juice, and ½ teaspoon (~1 g) lemon zest. Incorporate chopped fresh parsley, chives, and thyme. Season the mixture with smoked paprika, ⅛ teaspoon (~0.25 g) crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir thoroughly until all components are evenly distributed, resulting in a cohesive, flavorful blend.
3. Shaping and Chilling
Transfer the mixed butter onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Shape it into a log by rolling and twisting the ends of the wrap to secure. Place the log in the refrigerator and allow it to chill for at least two hours. This chilling process firms up the butter, making it easier to slice and enhancing the melding of flavors.
4. Serving Suggestions
Once the cowboy butter has solidified, slice it into rounds as needed. It’s versatile in use place a slice atop grilled steaks, roasted vegetables, or spread onto warm bread. For a dipping sauce, gently melt the butter over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency. Serve immediately to complement your chosen dishes.
5. Storage Tips
Store any unused cowboy butter in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly, for up to seven days. For extended storage, freeze the butter log; it will keep well for several months. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Conclusion
Cowboy butter is one of those simple recipes that packs a surprising punch. With just a few ingredients and a couple of minutes, you’ve got a rich, flavorful butter that can level up steaks, veggies, grilled meats, or even just a slice of warm bread.
Whether you’re cooking for guests or just treating yourself to something extra, this zesty, garlicky blend is the kind of kitchen trick you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. Keep a batch in the fridge or freezer, and you’ll always have a go-to flavor boost ready to go.