There are few things as luxurious and flavorful as bone marrow butter. This exquisite creation is the result of marrying the rich, unctuous essence of bone marrow with the creamy goodness of butter. In fact, almost any dish that involves its use always has that luxurious feeling flavor associated with it, one of such is bone marrow pasta. If you don’t want to use the marrow to cook pasta or any other food but prefer to spread it like butter, then this article on how to make your homemade bone marrow butter, would be of incredible help.
Like you already know, bone marrow has a unique way of elevating dishes, this article would guide you in turning that elevation into butter with ease.
What is Bone Marrow Butter?
This butter, as the name suggests, is a compound butter that features the essence of roasted bone marrow. Bone marrow, found in the center of beef or veal bones, is renowned for its velvety texture and deep, meaty flavor. When combined with butter, it creates a sumptuous condiment that can enhance the taste of a wide range of dishes.
The result of this union is a versatile ingredient that can be used to elevate everything from steaks and roasted vegetables to pasta and grilled bread. It adds an extra layer of richness and complexity that can turn a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
Ingredients Needed To Make Bone Marrow Butter
To make yours at home, you’ll need a handful of high-quality ingredients. Below are the ingredients you would need:
Ingredients:
- 4-6 beef or veal marrow bones
- 1 pound (450 grams) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste.
- Fresh herbs, such as thyme or rosemary (optional, for added flavor)
Equipment
How To Make Bone Marrow Butter
Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making your own homemade bone marrow butter.
Step 1: Preparing the Bone Marrow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the marrow bones on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, ensuring they’re arranged in a single layer.
- Drizzle the bones with a bit of olive oil, which will help them roast evenly and prevent sticking.
- Season the bones with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add minced garlic and fresh herbs for extra flavor if desired.
- Roast the bones in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until the marrow is soft and easily scooped out with a spoon. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the bones.
Step 2: Extracting the Marrow
- Carefully remove the roasted marrow bones from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Using a small spoon or knife, scoop out the softened marrow from the bones. The marrow should have a consistency similar to room-temperature butter.
Step 3: Preparing the Butter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter with the extracted bone marrow. The butter should also be soft enough to easily incorporate the marrow.
- Mix the butter and marrow together until they are thoroughly combined. You can use a hand mixer or simply a spatula to do this. The resulting mixture should have a creamy, homogeneous texture.
Step 4: Seasoning
- Taste the butter and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on your preference, you can add more salt, pepper, or even a touch of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Storing Bone Marrow Butter
- Transfer it to an airtight container or shape it into a log using plastic wrap.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer-term storage. If frozen, slice off portions as needed.
Step 6: Enjoying The Butter
- This special butter can be used in a multitude of dishes. Spread it on warm, crusty bread, or melt it over a sizzling steak for a decadent finishing touch. You can also use it to sauté vegetables, enrich pasta sauces, or even whisk it into mashed potatoes for a luxurious side dish.
Bone Marrow Butter Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Oven
- 1 Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marrow bones on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, ensuring they're arranged in a single layer.
- Drizzle the bones with a bit of olive oil, which will help them roast evenly and prevent sticking. Season the bones with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. You can also add minced garlic and fresh herbs for extra flavor if desired.
- Roast the bones in the preheated oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until the marrow is soft and easily scooped out with a spoon. The exact time may vary depending on the size of the bones.
- Carefully remove the roasted marrow bones from the oven and let them cool slightly. Using a small spoon or knife, scoop out the softened marrow from the bones. The marrow should have a consistency similar to room-temperature butter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature unsalted butter with the extracted bone marrow. The butter should also be soft enough to easily incorporate the marrow. Mix the butter and marrow together until they are thoroughly combined. You can use a hand mixer or simply a spatula to do this. The resulting mixture should have a creamy, homogeneous texture.
- Taste the butter and adjust the seasoning as needed. Depending on your preference, you can add more salt, pepper, or even a touch of fresh herbs for an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Transfer the butter to an airtight container or shape it into a log using plastic wrap.
- Store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for longer-term storage. If frozen, slice off portions as needed.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with bone marrow butter besides spreading it on bread or steaks?
Bone marrow butter is an incredibly versatile type of butter. You can use it as a flavor booster in soups, sauces, and risottos. It’s also fantastic for roasting or sautéing vegetables, or simply melting over a baked potato.
Can I use bone marrow from different types of bones?
Yes, you can use marrow from various bones, such as beef or veal. Different types of bones may impart slightly different flavors and textures to your butter, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite.
Can I make bone marrow butter in advance and freeze it?
Absolutely! Bone marrow butter freezes well, so you can make a batch and store it in the freezer for several months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn.
In Conclusion
Bone marrow butter is a culinary masterpiece that can elevate your cooking to new heights. With a few simple steps and quality ingredients, you can create a versatile condiment that adds a rich, luxurious touch to a wide range of dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook looking to impress your household or guests, this butter is sure to become a cherished addition to your culinary repertoire. Your taste buds will thank you.
