Save Experience the perfect harmony of sweetness and savory depth with this Salted Honey Butter. This creamy compound butter blends rich unsalted butter with the delicate floral notes of wildflower honey, punctuated by the crunch of fleur de sel and the aromatic freshness of garden herbs like thyme and chives. It is an effortless way to elevate any meal from simple to gourmet.
Save By incorporating fresh rosemary and chives, this butter transforms into a sophisticated spread. Whether you shape it into a rustic log or serve it in a decorative ramekin, it serves as a stunning centerpiece for your bread basket.
Ingredients
- Butter Mixture
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 tablespoons honey (preferably wildflower or acacia)
- 1 teaspoon fleur de sel (or flaky sea salt), plus more for garnish
- Fresh Herbs
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine Base
- In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter and honey. Beat with a spatula or hand mixer until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Step 2: Add Seasoning
- Add the fleur de sel and chopped herbs. Mix gently until evenly distributed.
- Step 3: Adjust Flavor
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding a pinch more salt or honey if desired.
- Step 4: Shape
- Scrape the butter onto a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Shape into a log and twist the ends to seal, or transfer to a small ramekin.
- Step 5: Chill
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up the flavors.
- Step 6: Serve
- Before serving, sprinkle with a touch of extra fleur de sel. Serve at room temperature for easy spreading.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a hand mixer is highly recommended to achieve a light, whipped texture that incorporates the honey seamlessly. Ensure your butter is completely softened to room temperature before starting, otherwise, the honey and salt will not distribute evenly throughout the mixture.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Feel free to experiment with the herbal profile by substituting the thyme and chives for basil, tarragon, or dill. For those who enjoy a bright acidity, adding one teaspoon of finely grated lemon zest can provide a refreshing citrus twist that pairs excellently with seafood or poultry.
Serviervorschläge
This butter is absolutely delicious on warm baguettes, English muffins, or grilled corn on the cob. It also serves as a fantastic finishing touch for roasted seasonal vegetables, allowing the honey and herbs to melt into a luscious glaze.
Save This Salted Honey Butter is a simple yet impactful way to bring a touch of elegance to your daily meals. With its delicate balance of floral, sweet, and salty notes, it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen repertoire.
Recipe FAQ
- → What herbs work best in this butter blend?
Thyme and chives are classic choices, while rosemary adds a subtle piney note. Basil, tarragon, or dill can also be delicious alternatives.
- → How should this spread be stored?
Store in the refrigerator, wrapped or in a covered container, to keep freshness. Bring to room temperature before serving for easy spreading.
- → Can I adjust the sweetness level?
Yes, simply add more or less honey to suit your taste preferences while mixing the ingredients.
- → What dishes pair well with this butter?
It’s excellent on warm breads like baguette or corn muffins, and makes a flavorful finish for roasted or grilled vegetables.
- → Is fleur de sel necessary in this blend?
Fleur de sel adds a delicate crunch and brightness. If unavailable, flaky sea salt is a good substitute to enhance flavor.