Walnut Creek Foods
Unsalted Butter
What it is
This is a dairy product made from churning cream. It is a solid fat at room temperature and melts when heated. This particular product is unsalted, meaning it does not have any added salt. This allows for greater control over the saltiness of dishes. It is a staple in many kitchens for both cooking and baking.
How people cook with it
Butter is incredibly versatile. It can be used to add richness and flavor to a wide range of dishes, from sweet to savory.
- Baking cakes and cookies
- Sautéing vegetables
- Spreading on toast
- Sauce base
Butter can be melted and used as a cooking fat for sautéing or frying. It can be creamed with sugar for baked goods, creating a tender crumb. It is also used to bind ingredients together or to add a smooth texture to sauces. For spreading, it is best at room temperature so it glides easily. When baking, the temperature of the butter, whether cold, softened, or melted, significantly impacts the final texture of the product.
How it differs from similar foods
Unsalted butter differs from salted butter by the absence of added salt. This is preferred by many bakers and cooks who want to precisely control the salt content of their recipes. Salted butter has a longer shelf life due to the preservative properties of salt.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs use butter regularly in their culinary preparations.
How to keep the rest
To store the remaining butter, wrap it tightly in its original packaging or in parchment paper. Keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from going rancid. For longer storage, butter can be frozen.