Herb-Infused Basil and Thyme Butter
Elevate your culinary creations with this delightful Herb-Infused Basil and Thyme Butter. This versatile compound butter combines the fragrant flavors of fresh basil and thyme with creamy unsalted butter, pure olive oil, and a hint of sour cream for a luxurious spread that's perfect for enhancing grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or simply slathered on warm, crusty bread. The preparation is quick and easy, making it an excellent choice for surprising guests or treating yourself. Prepare ahead and let it chill for a couple of hours to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
16
Servings
113
Calories
6
Ingredients
Ingredients
Unsalted Butter
1 lb (Softened at room temperature)
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
2 tablespoons (N/A)
Fresh Basil
2 tablespoons (Chopped)
Fresh Thyme
1 tablespoon (Chopped)
Sour Cream
1/2 tablespoon (N/A)
Wax Paper
1 sheet (N/A)
Instructions
1
In a food processor, combine the olive oil, chopped basil, and chopped thyme. Pulse a few times until the herbs are well mixed but not pureed.
2
Cut the softened unsalted butter into small chunks and place it in a large mixing bowl.
3
Add the blended herb mixture and sour cream to the bowl with the butter.
4
Using a fork, thoroughly mix the herbs and sour cream into the butter until evenly distributed.
5
Transfer the butter mixture onto a sheet of wax paper, shaping it into a thick line.
6
Fold the wax paper over the butter and roll it tightly into a cylindrical tube, twisting the ends to seal them securely.
7
Refrigerate the wrapped butter for at least 2 hours, or until firm. This allows the flavors to meld and intensify.
8
Once chilled, slice the butter into rounds and serve with your favorite dishes or as a gourmet spread.
Nutrition Information
12.5g
Fat
0.2g
Carbs
0.1g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Herb-Infused Basil and Thyme Butter?
It is a versatile compound butter that combines fragrant fresh basil and thyme with creamy unsalted butter, olive oil, and a touch of sour cream.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include 1 lb of softened unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme, and 1/2 tablespoon of sour cream.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it is categorized as 'Very Low Carbs' with only 0.2g of carbohydrates per serving.
How many calories are in one serving of this butter?
Each serving contains 113 calories.
How much fat is in a single serving?
One serving of this herb butter contains 12.5g of fat.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields 16 servings.
What is the first step in preparing the herb mixture?
The first step is to combine the olive oil, chopped basil, and chopped thyme in a food processor and pulse until well mixed.
Should I use fresh or dried herbs?
The recipe calls for fresh basil and fresh thyme to achieve the best fragrance and flavor.
What type of butter is recommended?
The recipe specifies using unsalted butter softened at room temperature.
Why is sour cream added to the mixture?
Sour cream is added to provide a hint of tang and a luxurious, creamy texture to the spread.
How should the herbs and butter be combined?
After pulsing the herbs and oil, you mix them with the sour cream and chunks of softened butter in a large bowl using a fork.
What is the best way to shape the butter?
Transfer the mixture to wax paper, shape it into a thick line, and then roll it into a tight cylindrical tube.
How do I seal the butter for chilling?
Fold the wax paper over the butter and twist the ends securely to seal the tube.
How long does the butter need to refrigerate?
The wrapped butter should be refrigerated for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the butter to become firm.
How is the butter served once it is chilled?
Once firm, you can slice the butter into rounds to serve with your favorite dishes.
What are some suggested pairings for this butter?
It is excellent for enhancing grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a spread on warm, crusty bread.
Does this recipe contain any sugar?
No, the nutritional profile indicates 0g of sugar.
What is the protein content of the butter?
Each serving contains approximately 0.1g of protein.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, the recipe suggests preparing it ahead of time so the flavors can meld beautifully while chilling.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is described as a quick and easy preparation, ideal for surprising guests.
How much basil is required?
You will need 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh basil.
How much thyme is required?
The recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh thyme.
What kind of oil should I use?
The recipe specifically uses extra virgin olive oil.
What supplies are needed for shaping?
You will need one sheet of wax paper to roll and shape the butter mixture.
What is the purpose of pulsing the herbs in a food processor?
Pulsing ensures the herbs are well mixed with the oil without being completely pureed.
Is there any fiber in this herb butter?
The nutritional information lists fiber as null, meaning it is negligible.
What category does this recipe fall under?
It is categorized under 'Very Low Carbs'.
Can this be used as a gourmet spread?
Yes, it is tagged as a gourmet spread and a cooking essential.
How much butter is used in total?
The recipe uses 1 lb of unsalted butter.
What should I do if the butter isn't soft?
You should allow the butter to sit at room temperature until softened before starting the recipe to ensure it mixes properly.