Cowboy Butter

why make this recipe

Cowboy Butter is a mouthwatering compound butter that brings a burst of flavor to various dishes. It’s simple to make and adds a delicious twist to grilled meats, corn on the cob, or crusty bread. With a perfect blend of herbs, spices, and just the right amount of heat, this butter elevates any meal, making it a must-try for home cooks.

how to make Cowboy Butter

Ingredients:

• ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon coarse Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh garlic, minced very finely
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt
• ⅛ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions:

1. Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to true room temperature. It should be soft enough to easily indent but not melted or greasy. This is crucial for smooth incorporation.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with your very finely minced fresh garlic, finely chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped fresh chives, and finely chopped fresh thyme leaves.
3. Next, incorporate the coarse Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. These spices give the Cowboy Butter its signature warmth and depth.
4. Pour in the fresh lemon juice. Its acidity brightens the rich, savory flavors and cuts through the butter’s richness beautifully.
5. Finally, add the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Start with the recommended amounts and adjust to your personal preference.
6. Using a sturdy spatula or wooden spoon, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together until they are completely combined and evenly distributed throughout the butter. Scrape down the sides of the bowl periodically.
7. For best results and to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, transfer the mixed Cowboy Butter to a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll it into a log shape, twisting the ends to seal. Pop this log into the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or even better, a few hours. This chilling process deepens its complexity and makes it easier to slice.

how to serve Cowboy Butter

Cowboy Butter is versatile and can be served in many ways. Spread it on grilled steaks or chicken, toss it with vegetables, or melt it over hot cornbread. It also makes a fantastic topping for baked potatoes or warm crusty bread. The options are endless!

how to store Cowboy Butter

To store Cowboy Butter, keep it in the refrigerator in its log shape wrapped in parchment paper or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for about 1 to 2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage. Just slice off pieces as needed from the frozen log.

tips to make Cowboy Butter

• Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Adjust the spice levels to suit your taste; add more cayenne if you like it spicier!
• Experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil for different flavors.

variation

If you want to switch things up, try adding crumbled blue cheese or chopped olives for an extra kick. You can also use different types of mustard to create unique flavor profiles.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce or omit the sea salt in the recipe.

2. How long does Cowboy Butter last in the freezer?
Cowboy Butter can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Just wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.

3. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use dried herbs, but use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Cowboy Butter

Cowboy Butter is a flavorful compound butter infused with herbs, spices, and savory liquids, perfect for enhancing the taste of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Servings: 16 tablespoons

Calories: 110

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh chives finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Equipment

• Medium bowl
• Spoon/Spatula
• Parchment paper/Plastic wrap

Method

 

Making the Butter

1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter with parsley, chives, thyme, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice to the mixture.
3. Mix all ingredients thoroughly with a spoon or spatula until well combined and evenly distributed.
4. Spoon the butter mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap.
5. Roll the parchment paper or plastic wrap tightly around the butter to form a log shape.
6. Twist the ends to seal and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Slice and serve with steak, chicken, seafood, or vegetables.

Notes

For best results, allow the butter to soften at room temperature before mixing. The butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 3 months.