Description
This Garlic Herb Butter is a flavorful compound butter made with softened butter, garlic, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest and Worcestershire sauce. It’s perfect for adding a delicious, aromatic touch to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or warm breads. Easy to prepare with simple ingredients, this butter brings vibrant herbal notes and a slight tang, making it a versatile kitchen staple.
Ingredients
Scale
Butter Mixture
- 1 stick butter (softened)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce)
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest (optional)
- ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
- Salt & pepper (to taste)
Herbs
- ¼ cup fresh herbs, chopped (parsley and basil recommended; use only soft, leafy herbs)
Instructions
- Beat the Butter and Flavorings: Using a hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat the softened butter with minced garlic, lemon zest, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a medium mixing bowl. Continue mixing until the butter is creamy and well combined with the seasonings.
- Add the Fresh Herbs: Add the chopped herbs to the butter mixture. Mix on low speed briefly until the herbs are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent crushing the herbs too much.
- Shape and Chill: Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter. Spread the compound butter mixture in the center, shaping it into a log approximately 8×1½ inches. Wrap the plastic tightly around the butter, forming a sausage shape, and twist the ends to seal. Place the wrapped butter in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour before unwrapping and slicing to serve.
Notes
- For the freshest garlic flavor, mince the garlic just before making the butter to prevent bitterness and discoloration.
- Use only soft, leafy herbs like parsley, basil, chives, or tarragon for the best texture and flavor. Avoid woody herbs like rosemary or thyme as they can be too tough.
- This compound butter can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or frozen for several months.
- Feel free to customize with different herbs or add a pinch of chili flakes for some heat.
