The preference for restaurant butter over homemade butter is subjective. Various factors contribute to this perception, including the different brands and styles of butter served across various restaurants. From prepackaged pats in fast-service diners to house-made butter in farm-to-table bistros, and compound butters in steakhouses, the reasons behind the preference vary.
Higher Butterfat Content
Restaurant butter often boasts a higher butterfat percentage, contributing to its richer taste. While typical grocery store butter contains around 80% butterfat, restaurant suppliers offer butter with up to 86% butterfat, enhancing its flavor profile.
Attention to Seasoning
In restaurants, butter is not merely an accompaniment but an integral part of dishes, carefully seasoned to complement the meal. Salt, in particular, plays a significant role in enhancing the butter’s taste, balancing sweet or savory notes depending on the dish.
Freshness
Butter in restaurants is used more quickly, minimizing the chance of it absorbing undesirable odors and flavors from the environment. This contrasts with butter left unused for extended periods in home refrigerators, where it can take on off-putting smells.
How to Achieve Restaurant-Quality Butter at Home
Choose Quality Butter
Invest in higher-quality butter for spreading on toast or incorporating into dishes. European-style butters with higher fat content or those sourced from farmers’ markets offer superior taste.
Proper Storage
While refrigeration is ideal for long-term storage, let butter sit at room temperature for optimal spreadability. Store unused portions in the fridge, ensuring to consume within a reasonable time frame to prevent off flavors.
Experiment with Flavors
Enhance homemade butter with various flavorings using a mixer. From sweet options like maple syrup and spices to savory additions like fresh herbs or cheese, the possibilities are endless.
Whip it
Whipping butter incorporates air bubbles, resulting in a light and fluffy texture ideal for spreading. This process can be done with salted or unsalted butter, with the option to add additional salt for flavor enhancement.
By following these tips, you can enjoy restaurant-quality butter in the comfort of your home, tailored to your taste preferences and culinary endeavors.
