Cilantro-Infused Butter

by

Cilantro-Infused Butter: A Fresh and Zesty Spread

Introduction

Cilantro-infused butter is a delightful and aromatic spread that can enhance a variety of dishes, from bread to meats and vegetables. The fresh, slightly citrusy flavor of cilantro combined with the creamy richness of butter creates a harmonious blend that enhances the taste of many recipes. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make cilantro-infused butter, its culinary uses, health benefits, and tips for storing it properly.

Key Takeaways

  • Easy to Make: Cilantro-infused butter is simple to prepare and can elevate many dishes.
  • Culinary Uses: Use cilantro-infused butter on bread, meats, vegetables, and more.
  • Health Benefits: Cilantro and butter both offer numerous health benefits.
  • Storage Tips: Learn how to store cilantro-infused butter for maximum freshness.

How to Make Cilantro-Infused Butter

Making cilantro-infused butter at home is quick and easy. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Butter: Allow the unsalted butter to soften at room temperature. This makes it easier to mix.
  2. Chop the Cilantro: Finely chop the fresh cilantro leaves. You can adjust the amount of cilantro to your taste.
  3. Mix Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, chopped cilantro, lime zest (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  4. Blend Well: Use a fork or a hand mixer to blend the ingredients until they are well combined and smooth.
  5. Store or Serve: Transfer the cilantro-infused butter to a small serving dish or airtight container. Refrigerate if not using immediately.

Culinary Uses

Cilantro-infused butter is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some popular culinary applications:

1. Cilantro Butter on Bread

Ingredients:

  • Fresh bread (such as baguette or sourdough)
  • Cilantro-infused butter
  • Sea salt (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Slice the bread and toast it lightly if desired.
  2. Spread a generous amount of cilantro-infused butter on each slice.
  3. Sprinkle with sea salt if desired.
  4. Serve as a tasty appetizer or side dish.

2. Cilantro Butter Grilled Corn

Ingredients:

  • Fresh corn on the cob
  • Cilantro-infused butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Lime wedges (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Brush the corn with melted cilantro-infused butter and season with salt and pepper.
  3. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
  4. Serve hot, with lime wedges on the side.

3. Cilantro Butter Grilled Shrimp

Ingredients:

  • Shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Cilantro-infused butter
  • Salt and pepper
  • Garlic cloves, minced (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with melted cilantro-infused butter, minced garlic (if using), salt, and pepper.
  3. Grill the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
  4. Serve hot, with additional cilantro butter for dipping.

Health Benefits

Both cilantro and butter are packed with nutrients and offer numerous health benefits:

Ingredient Nutritional Benefits Health Benefits
Cilantro Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, magnesium, and iron Detoxifies the body, supports digestion, promotes healthy skin
Butter High in vitamins A, D, E, and K, healthy fats Supports bone health, improves vision, boosts immune function

Storage Tips

To keep your cilantro-infused butter fresh and flavorful, follow these storage tips:

  • Refrigeration: Store cilantro-infused butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
  • Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cilantro-infused butter in small portions, such as in an ice cube tray. Transfer the frozen cubes to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months.
  • Portion Control: Divide cilantro-infused butter into smaller portions to use as needed, ensuring the rest stays fresh.

Conclusion

Cilantro-infused butter is a simple yet delicious spread that can enhance a variety of dishes. Whether you’re making cilantro butter bread, grilling corn, or cooking shrimp, this versatile condiment is sure to impress your taste buds. With its numerous health benefits and easy preparation, cilantro-infused butter is a must-have in any kitchen. Try making it at home and enjoy the fresh, flavorful results!