Butter Board Recipes: Simple and Delicious Ideas

Butter boards have taken the world by storm, captivating food enthusiasts with their simplicity and the endless flavor combinations they offer. A butter board is essentially a charcuterie board but centered around, you guessed it, butter. It's an innovative way to serve bread and crackers with an array of delectable spreads, herbs, and seasonings. Here, we'll dive into various recipes that will make your butter board not just a spread, but a centerpiece of your dining experience.

Classic Garlic Herb Butter Board

Nothing beats the classic flavor of garlic and herbs when it comes to butter. Here’s how to create a simple yet irresistible garlic herb butter board:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and chives, finely chopped
• A pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Soften the Butter: Let the butter soften at room temperature or soften it by microwaving in short bursts.
2. Mix: Combine the butter with garlic, a generous handful of chopped herbs, and salt in a mixing bowl. Mix until well incorporated.
3. Prepare the Board: Spread a thick layer of this butter mixture onto a wooden board or a slate.
4. Garnish: Sprinkle with additional chopped herbs for visual appeal.

💡 Note: Ensure your butter is spreadable but not melted. Garlic and herbs should be finely chopped to avoid a chunky texture.

Savory Truffle Butter Board

For those seeking luxury on their palette, a truffle butter board is an exquisite choice:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1-2 tablespoons black or white truffle paste or truffle oil
• Sea salt flakes

Instructions:

1. Soften Butter: As above, ensure your butter is soft and spreadable.
2. Incorporate Truffles: Mix in truffle paste or oil with butter. Be conservative with the amount, as truffle flavors are potent.
3. Prepare the Board: Spread the truffle butter generously.
4. Finish: Add a touch of sea salt flakes for texture and flavor contrast.

🍽 Note: Truffle oils can be overpowering; start with less and taste as you go.

Spicy Honey and Chili Butter Board

Combining sweetness with a kick, this butter board is perfect for those who love a little heat:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons chili oil or finely chopped fresh chili
• 3 tablespoons honey

Instructions:

1. Mix Butter: Whip the butter until creamy.
2. Add Heat and Sweetness: Stir in chili oil or fresh chili and honey until evenly distributed.
3. Spread and Swirl: Spread on the board, swirling the butter to create an inviting pattern.

🔥 Note: If using fresh chili, wear gloves to prevent burning your skin with capsaicin.

Smoked Salmon and Dill Butter Board

This elegant board is ideal for brunch or as an appetizer:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 oz smoked salmon, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• Lemon zest

Instructions:

1. Blend Butter: Start by whipping the butter to incorporate air for a lighter spread.
2. Combine Ingredients: Gently fold in the salmon, dill, and lemon zest.
3. Display: Spread on the board, ensuring not to crush the salmon pieces.

🐟 Note: For an extra touch, add capers or a squeeze of lemon juice for a vibrant finish.

Herbed Cheese and Butter Board

Adding cheese to your butter board creates a delightful fusion of flavors:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¹⁄₂ cup fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, and oregano, finely chopped
• ¹⁄₂ cup soft cheese like boursin or goat cheese

Instructions:

1. Mix Butter: In a bowl, mix the butter with finely chopped herbs.
2. Incorporate Cheese: Add cheese and blend until you have a uniform spread.
3. Create Patterns: Spread on the board and use a fork to create decorative patterns.

🧀 Note: Experiment with different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

In wrapping up, butter boards are a versatile canvas for culinary creativity, from the simplicity of garlic and herbs to the sophistication of truffles or smoked salmon. They offer a communal dining experience, allowing guests to interact with their food in a tactile, social way. Each recipe here provides not just a taste, but an experience, where the butter acts as a conduit for an array of flavors and textures. Dive into the world of butter boards, and let each spread be an invitation to indulge, socialize, and savor every bite.

What are the best types of bread to serve with a butter board?

+

Crusty artisan breads like baguettes or sourdough are ideal because their texture complements the spreadable butter. However, flatbreads, brioche, or even crackers can work wonderfully with specific butter boards.

How long can butter boards be left out?

+

Butter boards should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. For longer gatherings, consider placing smaller portions on the board and keep the rest chilled, refreshing the board as needed.

Can butter boards be made in advance?

+

Absolutely! You can prepare the butter mixtures and store them in the fridge for up to a week. Just bring to room temperature before assembling your board for easy spreading.