Herb Compound Butter

My summer herbs are at their peak, and I have been using them in everything.  One of my favorite ways to preserve the flavor is to make compound butter. Compound butter is basically just butter whipped with additional ingredients, usually herbs or spices. I use the compound butter on french bread, on top of steaks, on baked potatoes, or other vegetables.  It's a great way to add intense flavor to everyday foods!

Start with your choice of herbs. I used a handful of basil, parsley, rosemary, and thyme.

Chop the herbs. Add the herbs to one stick softened butter.

Stir herbs into butter until mixed well. Spread butter mixture onto a piece of plastic wrap.

Smooth butter into a log and roll up. Place in freezer until ready to use.

Notes:   The variations of compound butter are endless! In addition to the savory butter above, you can also make sweet compound butter. I had 1/2 cup of local blueberries on hand. I made a compound butter with 1 stick butter, the blueberries, and 1 tablespoon powdered sugar using the same process as above.  I'll use this blueberry butter this winter on pancakes or biscuits.