Central Market
Central Market European Style Salted Butter
What it is
This is a high-quality butter made in the European style, which typically means it has a higher fat content than standard American butter. The addition of salt enhances its flavor and can also act as a mild preservative. It comes in a convenient block for easy measuring and use in various culinary applications. The rich, creamy texture is a hallmark of this type of butter.
How people cook with it
European style butter is excellent for both sweet and savory cooking. Its superior flavor and texture make a noticeable difference in baked goods and sauces.
- Baking cakes and cookies
- Sautéing vegetables
- Finishing sauces
- Spreading on toast
When baking, the higher fat content can result in flakier pastries and richer cakes. For sautéing, it provides a lovely golden-brown sear on meats and vegetables, adding a depth of flavor. In sauces, it can be whisked in at the end to create a glossy, emulsified finish. It's also wonderful simply spread on warm bread or used to melt over steamed vegetables. Ensure it's at the right temperature for your recipe, whether softened for creaming or melted for incorporating.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to standard butter, European style butter generally has a higher fat percentage (around 82% or more) and a lower moisture content. This leads to a richer flavor and a creamier texture, which is particularly beneficial in baking where fat content significantly impacts the final product.
Who it is for
Home cooks and professional chefs who appreciate a richer flavor and finer texture in their dishes will find this butter valuable.
How to keep the rest
To keep the remaining butter fresh, wrap it tightly in its original packaging or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator. If you plan to use it for baking, you can soften it at room temperature for a short period before use. Avoid prolonged exposure to light and air to maintain its quality.