What To Know
- The choice of butter for your steak is a matter of both personal preference and the desired result.
- Opt for a more flavorful butter such as Plugrá European Style Butter or Vermont Creamery Cultured Butter.
- Selecting the best butter for top of steak is a crucial step in creating a truly exceptional steak experience.
Indulging in a perfectly grilled steak is a culinary masterpiece that deserves the finest accompaniments. Among them, butter reigns supreme, adding an extra layer of flavor and richness that elevates the steak to new heights. But not all butters are created equal. Selecting the best butter for top of steak is paramount to unlocking the full potential of this iconic dish.
The Art of Selecting the Best Butter
The choice of butter for your steak is a matter of both personal preference and the desired result. Consider these key factors:
- Flavor Profile: Do you prefer a mild, sweet butter or a more robust, savory one?
- Fat Content: Higher fat content results in a richer, creamier butter that melts more easily.
- Texture: Opt for a butter that spreads easily and evenly, without tearing or crumbling.
- Saltiness: Some butters are salted, while others are unsalted. If you prefer to control the saltiness of your steak, choose unsalted butter.
Top Contenders for the Best Butter for Steak
After extensive research and taste testing, we present our top contenders for the best butter for steak:
1. Kerrygold Irish Butter
Renowned for its velvety texture and rich, grassy flavor, Kerrygold Irish Butter is a classic choice for steak enthusiasts. Its high butterfat content (82%) ensures a smooth and creamy melt that perfectly complements the meat.
2. Plugrá European Style Butter
Plugrá European Style Butter combines the quality of European butter with the convenience of American production. Its 84% butterfat content and distinct tangy flavor make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
3. Vermont Creamery Cultured Butter
Vermont Creamery Cultured Butter is a testament to the art of buttermaking. Cultured with live bacteria, it develops a complex, slightly tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled steaks. Its high butterfat content (86%) ensures a luxurious mouthfeel.
4. Beurre d’Isigny Ste-Mère
Beurre d’Isigny Ste-Mère is the epitome of French butter. Its creamy texture and delicate, nutty flavor make it a gourmet choice for discerning palates. Its protected designation of origin (PDO) guarantees the highest quality standards.
5. President Butter
President Butter is a versatile choice that offers a balance of flavor and affordability. Its 82% butterfat content provides a rich and creamy melt, while its mild flavor allows the steak to shine through.
How to Apply Butter to Steak
The technique of applying butter to steak is crucial to maximizing its flavor and impact. Follow these steps:
- Remove Steak from Heat: Allow the steak to rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Slice Butter: Cut the butter into thin slices or pats.
- Place Butter on Steak: Place the butter slices or pats on top of the steak and allow them to melt slightly.
- Spread Butter: Use a spoon or knife to gently spread the melted butter over the steak, ensuring even coverage.
Enhancing Steak Flavor with Compound Butter
Compound butters are a culinary innovation that combines the richness of butter with the flavors of herbs, spices, or other ingredients. They offer a unique way to elevate the steak experience. Here are some popular compound butter recipes:
- Garlic Butter: Mix softened butter with minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Herb Butter: Combine softened butter with chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, rosemary, or thyme.
- Blue Cheese Butter: Mix softened butter with crumbled blue cheese, salt, and pepper.
- Horseradish Butter: Blend softened butter with prepared horseradish, salt, and pepper.
The Perfect Steak Butter Pairing
The perfect steak butter pairing depends on your personal taste and the type of steak you’re grilling. Here are some general guidelines:
- Mild Steaks: Pair with a mild butter such as President Butter or Kerrygold Irish Butter.
- Robust Steaks: Opt for a more flavorful butter such as Plugrá European Style Butter or Vermont Creamery Cultured Butter.
- Compound Butters: Experiment with different compound butter recipes to complement the steak’s flavor profile.
Key Points: The Key to Steak Perfection
Selecting the best butter for top of steak is a crucial step in creating a truly exceptional steak experience. By considering the flavor profile, fat content, texture, and saltiness of the butter, you can elevate your steak to new heights. Experiment with different butters and techniques to find the perfect combination that suits your taste.
Information You Need to Know
1. What is the best way to store butter for steak?
Store butter in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. For optimal flavor, bring the butter to room temperature 30 minutes before using.
2. Can I use margarine instead of butter on steak?
Margarine is a processed butter substitute that may contain trans fats, which are unhealthy. It is not recommended as a replacement for butter on steak.
3. How much butter should I use on a steak?
As a general rule, use 1-2 tablespoons of butter per steak. Adjust the amount based on your personal preference and the size of the steak.
