Bone Marrow Butter Recipe

Bone marrow butter is a delightful culinary creation that adds a rich and savory flavor to any dish. This luxurious butter is made by combining the fatty marrow from beef or veal bones with creamy butter, resulting in a velvety spread that can elevate the taste of your meals. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try new recipes or a home cook seeking to impress your guests, making bone marrow butter can be a fantastic addition to your culinary repertoire.

What is Bone Marrow Butter?

Bone marrow butter is a compound butter made by blending bone marrow with softened butter. Compound butter is a mixture of butter and other ingredients, such as herbs, spices, or in this case, bone marrow. It is a versatile ingredient that adds depth, richness, and a unique flavor profile to various dishes.

Making Bone Marrow Butter

To make bone marrow butter, you will need a few key ingredients: bone marrow, butter, salt, and pepper. Here’s a simple step-by-step process to guide you:

1. Prepare the bones: Start by obtaining marrow bones from a butcher or a grocery store. The bones should be cut lengthwise to expose the marrow.

2. Roast the bones: Place the marrow bones on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until the marrow becomes soft and easily scoopable.

3. Extract the marrow: Remove the bones from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Using a small spoon, scoop out the cooked marrow and transfer it to a bowl.

4. Soften the butter: In another bowl, let the butter come to room temperature and soften. You can speed up the process by microwaving it for a few seconds.

5. Combine the ingredients: Mix the softened butter with the extracted bone marrow until well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Shape and store: Transfer the bone marrow butter onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Roll it into a log shape, twisting the ends to seal. Store it in the refrigerator for about an hour to set and firm up.

Ways to Use Bone Marrow Butter

Bone marrow butter can be used in a multitude of ways to enhance the flavors of various dishes. Here are a few creative ways to incorporate this delectable ingredient:

1. Grilled or roasted meats: Spread a pat of bone marrow butter over grilled steaks, chicken, or lamb just before serving. The butter will melt over the hot meat, infusing it with a rich, buttery flavor.

2. Mashed potatoes: Add a dollop of bone marrow butter to your mashed potatoes for an extra depth of flavor. It creates a luscious velvety texture and complements the earthiness of the potatoes.

3. Sauteed vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables in a pan with a knob of bone marrow butter. The butter will coat the vegetables beautifully, adding a luxurious touch to your side dish.

4. Pasta dishes: Melt bone marrow butter over warm pasta and toss to coat. Finish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a decadent and indulgent pasta dish.

5. Toast or crostini: Spread bone marrow butter onto a slice of crusty bread or toasted baguette for a simple yet sophisticated appetizer. The creamy, savory butter pairs wonderfully with the crispy texture of the bread.

6. Flavor enhancer: Use bone marrow butter to enrich sauces, gravies, or dressings. It adds a distinctive umami flavor that complements a wide range of dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use bone marrow from other types of animals?

A: While beef and veal bones are the most commonly used for bone marrow butter, you can experiment with other types of animal bones, such as lamb, pork, or even chicken. The flavor profiles may vary, so it’s best to try different combinations to find your preferred taste.

Q: How long does bone marrow butter last?

A: Properly stored bone marrow butter can last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. It’s recommended to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Q: Can I freeze bone marrow butter?

A: Yes, bone marrow butter can be frozen for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Frozen bone marrow butter can last for several months.

Q: Can I substitute bone marrow butter in recipes that call for regular butter?

A: Absolutely! Bone marrow butter can be used as a substitute for regular butter in many recipes. Keep in mind that it will add a unique flavor profile, so choose recipes where the savory richness of bone marrow can enhance the overall taste.

Q: Is bone marrow butter healthy?

A: Bone marrow is a good source of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. However, like any butter, it should be enjoyed in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content. Incorporate it as part of a balanced diet.

Final Thoughts

Bone marrow butter is a culinary delight that adds depth, richness, and complexity to a wide array of dishes. Whether you choose to spread it on warm bread, melt it over sizzling steaks, or swirl it into creamy mashed potatoes, this luxurious butter is sure to elevate your culinary creations. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and combinations to find the perfect taste that suits your palate. Enjoy the indulgent flavors of bone marrow butter and savor every bite!