Butter is a versatile and delicious ingredient used in cooking and baking worldwide. In this blog post, we will explore the history and production of butter, as well as ways to cook with it and some common recipes where it is used.
About Butter (Diber)
Without a doubt, this dairy product has been a staple in many cuisines for thousands of years. While its exact origin is unknown, it is believed to have been discovered by nomadic tribes in ancient Africa. Eventually, the practice of churning cream spread throughout Europe.
And by the Middle Ages, it had become a popular ingredient in many dishes. In the 18th century, its production became more industrialised, and by the 19th century, it was widely available to the masses.
Production
To make butter, you have to separate cream from milk and churn it until it becomes a solid mass. The churning process causes the fat in the cream to stick together, forming tiny globules. Eventually, those globules clump together to create butter.
The leftover liquid is called buttermilk and can be used in a variety of recipes. While it can be made from the milk of cows, sheep and goats, cow’s milk is the most commonly used.
Using Butter (Diber)
Unsurprisingly, you can use this ingredient in a variety of ways in cooking. Some common examples include sautéing, frying, baking and as a finishing touch to a dish. Actually, it is a common ingredient in French-style patisserie and recipes such as Gato Napolitenn.
Since it has a high smoke point, you can reach high temperatures without burning. As a result, it is an excellent choice for frying and sautéing. Moreover, butter is a great addition to sauces and soups, as it can add richness and depth to the flavour.
When cooking with butter, it is essential to monitor the heat as it can burn quickly. Clarified butter, also known as Ghee, is a popular alternative as it has an even higher smoke point. As a result, you can cook ghee at higher temperatures.
Favourite Recipes
Butter is a key ingredient in many dishes, both savoury and sweet. Here are some common recipes that use butter:
Gato Napolitenn
Tart Banann
Makacha Koko
