Deep Dive
What makes a good butter versus a bad butter?
A good butter starts with high-quality cream from grass-fed cows, which gives it a rich, buttery yellow color and smooth texture. Grass-fed butter has a superior flavor, often with nutty or grassy notes, while grain-fed butter tends to be pale, crumbly, and less flavorful. Lower-quality butters may include added natural flavorings to compensate for the lack of taste.
Why are European butters often considered superior?
European butters are superior because they are typically made from grass-fed cows, which produce richer, more flavorful milk. They also have a slightly lower water content, making them smoother and richer. Additionally, some European butters, like Isigny Ste Mère, are cultured, meaning the cream is fermented before churning, adding a subtle tang and complexity to the flavor.
What is the difference between cultured and non-cultured butter?
Cultured butter is made by fermenting the cream for 24 to 48 hours before churning, which adds a slight tang and complexity to the flavor. Non-cultured butter is made directly from fresh cream without fermentation, resulting in a more straightforward, creamy taste. Cultured butter is particularly popular in Europe and offers a more nuanced flavor profile.
What are some affordable options for high-quality butter?
Trader Joe’s European-style cultured butter is a cost-effective option at $4.70 for two sticks. For bulk baking, Costco’s Kirkland Signature unsalted butter is a great deal, offering four pounds for under $10. Their grass-fed salted butter is also a good value at around $11 for four blocks (equivalent to eight sticks).
How was the butter taste test conducted?
The taste test involved 17 butters, divided into salted (for eating) and unsalted (for baking) categories. Butters were tasted cold and at room temperature on sourdough and potato bread to assess spreadability and flavor. They were also tested in cooked noodles and baked goods like shortbread and pie crusts to evaluate performance in different applications.
What are the best butters for specific uses?
For fruit pie, Kerrygold is recommended. Isigny Ste Mère is ideal for butter on bread and brown butter noodles. Kirkland unsalted butter is great for bulk baking, such as Christmas cookies and buttercream frosting. Vegan butter is suggested for baking for someone you dislike, as it doesn’t perform as well as traditional butter.
How should butter be stored to maintain freshness?
Butter can be stored on the counter using a butter bell, which keeps it fresh by preventing contact with air. However, in hot environments, it should be refrigerated to avoid rancidity. For long-term storage, butter can be frozen. If refrigerated, it should be kept in an airtight container to prevent absorption of strong odors from other foods.
What are the key takeaways from the butter taste test?
Key takeaways include the importance of grass-fed butter for superior flavor and texture, the unique qualities of cultured butter, and the value of European butters. The color of butter can indicate quality, with a rich yellow hue often coming from grass-fed cows. Vegan butters, while improved, still don’t fully replicate the performance of traditional butter.
- Grass-fed butter is superior due to beta-carotene in grass giving it richer color and flavor.
- Cultured butter undergoes fermentation, resulting in a unique zing.
- European butters generally have lower water content, making them richer and smoother.
- Costco's Kirkland brand offers affordable high-quality options for both salted and unsalted butter.
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