Poor Man'S Butter

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

Poor Man's Butter is a simple, creamy spread with rich buttery flavor, ideal for bread or toast. Its smooth texture and mild taste make it a versatile addition to any meal, especially when looking for an inexpensive yet satisfying butter substitute that chills to develop its best flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. whipped margarine
  • 3/4 c. oil
  • 1 c. thick buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Blend the whipped margarine, oil, and thick buttermilk well.
  2. Put the mixture into the refrigerator and chill.
  3. Do not eat until properly chilled.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, try using a combination of half whipped margarine and half unsalted butter. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup. Make sure to blend the ingredients thoroughly to achieve a smooth consistency. This mixture can also be flavored with herbs or spices if desired, making it versatile for various dishes.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy spread is perfect for slathering on warm, crusty bread or toast. It pairs beautifully with Lemon-Glazed Nectar Cake for a delightful brunch. You can also use it as a topping for baked potatoes or to enhance the flavor of roasted vegetables. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite pairing.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover Poor Man's Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to two weeks. If the mixture hardens too much, simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the texture upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Poor Man'S Butter contains roughly 898 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 97g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 511mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

898 kcal 45% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.7g 7% DV
Total Fat 97.2g 100% DV
Carbs 6g 2% DV
Fiber 0g
Sugar 5.5g 11% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 511.5mg 22% DV
Potassium 163.9mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 12.5mg 4% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 53.3mcg 6% DV
Vitamin D 1.5mcg 7% DV
Calcium 132.2mg 10% DV
Iron 0.1mg 1% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly

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 regular butter instead of margarine?

Yes, you can substitute regular butter for whipped margarine in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly, and you may want to soften the butter before blending to ensure a smooth consistency.

Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?

To make Poor Man's Butter vegan, use a plant-based margarine and ensure that the oil and buttermilk are also dairy-free. There are several plant-based buttermilk alternatives available that you can use for this recipe.

How can I make this spread more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of Poor Man's Butter, consider adding herbs like chives or parsley, or spices such as garlic powder or paprika. You can also mix in citrus zest for a refreshing twist, making it a versatile addition to various dishes.

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).

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