M A K E S ½ C U P
Herbed butter, sometimes called compound butter, is simply butter to which herbs and spices have been added. Place on top of grilled steaks or vegetables just before serving, so the marvelous flavor seeps into the food as it melts. Keep a log in the freezer at all times so you can pop a slice onto food at a moment's notice.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter or buttery spread, such as Earth Balance at room temperature
1 garlic clove, minced
2 teaspoons chopped fresh thyme
1⁄8 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Directions
1 In a small bowl, blend the butter, garlic, thyme, and salt with a spatula. Transfer the butter to a large strip of plastic wrap.
2 With a spatula, shape the butter into a 1-inch log and roll up the plastic around the log, twisting the ends to seal. Gently roll the log to evenly round out the shape. Place the log in the freezer to make the butter cold enough to slice again.
3 When ready to serve, remove the log from the plastic wrap, slice it in ½-inch pieces with a sharp knife that has been dipped in hot water, and place the butter on top of your food.
