Clarified Butter
Silky clarified butter with rich, nutty flavor, perfect for dipping seafood like clams, crab legs, lobster, or shrimp, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding depth.
Ingredients
- 1 c. butter ⓘ
Instructions
- Place butter in a 2-cup glass measure.
- Cook on 20% power for 3 1/2 minutes.
- Let stand for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Skim foam from the top.
- Slowly pour off the yellow oil into a small serving dish.
- Discard the leftover impurities.
- Serve as a dipping sauce for seafood.
Tips & Substitutions
When making clarified butter, ensure you use unsalted butter for better control over saltiness. If you notice excessive foam, reduce the power level slightly and extend the cooking time. This method is great for preparing butter for recipes like Fudge Marshmallow Candy, as it provides a clean flavor. You can also substitute ghee if you're looking for a more aromatic option.
Serving Suggestions
Clarified butter makes a fantastic dipping sauce for seafood, enhancing the flavors of shrimp, crab, and lobster. It also pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables or roasted potatoes. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or pair with dishes like Jeannie Fuger'S Fruit Crust Pizza for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover clarified butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. It can also be frozen for longer storage. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat until it returns to liquid form, avoiding any boiling to maintain its quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Clarified Butter contains roughly 540 calories, with 60g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While margarine can technically be used, it may not yield the same rich flavor and texture as clarified butter made from real butter. For the best results, stick with unsalted butter to achieve the authentic taste and quality that complements dishes elegantly.
What dishes can I use clarified butter in?
Clarified butter is versatile and can be used in various dishes, from sautéing vegetables to drizzling over popcorn. It's especially good for high-heat cooking due to its higher smoke point. Try it in recipes like Tennessee Fudge Pie for a delicious twist.
How do I know when the butter is fully clarified?
You can tell when the butter is fully clarified when the milk solids have settled at the bottom, and the liquid on top is a clear, golden color. Skimming off the foam and carefully pouring off the clarified butter will give you the pure form needed for your recipes.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).