Making butter at home

Butter, once shunned in favor of margarine and other substitutes, has made a triumphant return to kitchens around the world. Revered for its rich, creamy texture and unparalleled flavor, butter is now celebrated as a culinary staple. Its versatility spans across a wide range of dishes, from savory main courses to delectable desserts. In this collection of recipes, we embrace the delicious potential of butter, highlighting its role in creating comforting, flavorful meals and treats that are sure to impress. Join us as we rediscover classic recipes that remind us why butter truly is back.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)—line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, beating until combined.
4. Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
5. Roll dough into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheets.
6. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Garlic Butter Shrimp

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/4 cup (55g) unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in the parsley and cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

3. Brown Butter Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Continue to cook, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. In a large bowl, mix the browned butter and sugar until combined.
4. Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
5. Stir in the flour, baking soda, and salt until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.
7. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Herb Butter for Steak

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Place the butter mixture on a piece of plastic wrap and roll it into a log shape.
3. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
4. Slice the herb butter and place a piece on top of the hot, cooked steak just before serving.

These recipes showcase the versatility and richness of butter in both sweet and savory dishes. Enjoy!

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