Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter is a must-try because it transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary culinary experiences with its rich, creamy texture and the perfect balance of savory herbs, spices, and tangy flavors, making it an irresistible addition to your meals.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter is a luxurious compound butter that combines unsalted butter with a mix of aromatic herbs, spices, and other flavorful ingredients. It’s an homage to the classic French Cafe de Paris butter, often served with steak or seafood, but Jamie Oliver gives it a fresh, modern twist. The butter is rich and creamy, with a delightful combination of savory, slightly spicy, and herbaceous notes that elevate any dish it’s paired with, whether it’s grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple piece of toast.

The uniqueness of this butter lies in its versatile flavor profile, which can add a gourmet touch to your everyday meals. By using it, you can effortlessly infuse your dishes with an impressive array of flavors that seem like you’ve spent hours preparing a sophisticated meal. It’s a true testament to Jamie Oliver’s skill in transforming humble ingredients into extraordinary, flavor-packed creations.

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1. Unsalted Butter – The base of any compound butter, it provides a creamy texture and neutral flavor.
2. Shallots – These add a mild, sweet onion flavor that complements the richness of the butter.
3. Garlic – Freshly minced, garlic gives the butter an aromatic depth and mild spice.
4. Capers – These tiny buds bring a tangy, briny note to the butter that brightens up its rich base.
5. Dijon Mustard – Adds a bit of heat and tang, helping balance the richness of the butter.
6. Lemon Zest – This enhances the butter with a refreshing citrus note.
7. Fresh Parsley – A common herb in compound butters, parsley provides a fresh, grassy element.
8. Tarragon – For a slightly aniseed-like flavor, tarragon offers a sophisticated twist.
9. Worcestershire Sauce – Adds umami and a subtle savory complexity.
10. Chives – Finely chopped chives contribute a delicate onion flavor.
11. Paprika – A hint of smoky or sweet paprika gives depth and color to the butter.
12. Salt and Pepper – For seasoning, enhancing all the flavors and ensuring balance.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need any fancy equipment to prepare Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter, just a few basic kitchen tools:

1. Mixing Bowl – For combining all of your ingredients.
2. Spoon or Whisk – To blend the ingredients together into a smooth, uniform texture.
3. Knife and Chopping Board – For finely chopping the herbs, shallots, and capers.
4. Plastic Wrap or Parchment Paper – For rolling the butter into a log shape.
5. Fridge/Freezer – To chill the butter and allow it to firm up before use.
6. Grater or Zester – To zest the lemon.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter is a simple yet satisfying process that comes together quickly, with just a few steps:

1. Soften the Butter: Start by allowing the unsalted butter to soften at room temperature for about 30 minutes. It needs to be soft enough to mix easily but not melted.
2. Prepare the Ingredients: While the butter softens, finely chop the shallots, capers, parsley, tarragon, chives, and garlic. Zest the lemon, and gather your Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.
3. Mix: Place the softened butter into a large mixing bowl. Add all your prepared ingredients – the shallots, garlic, capers, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, lemon zest, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a spoon or whisk to blend everything together until smooth and well-combined.
4. Shape the Butter: Once everything is mixed in, transfer the butter onto a sheet of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Roll the butter into a log shape, making sure it’s tightly wrapped so it holds its form.
5. Chill: Place the butter log in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours to firm up. If you’re in a hurry, you can even freeze it for about 30 minutes to expedite the process.
6. Serve: After chilling, slice off portions of the butter as needed. It’s perfect to serve with steak, roasted chicken, grilled fish, or vegetables, or even spread on crusty bread.

Expert Tips

1. Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter blends much easier with the other ingredients, and the consistency of the compound butter will be much smoother.
2. Chill Properly: Chilling the butter helps the flavors meld together, but it also firms it up so you can easily slice it. You can make the butter in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it for longer storage.
3. Customize the Flavors: Jamie Oliver’s recipe is a great base, but feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices. Fresh thyme, rosemary, or even a dash of chili flakes can add your personal touch.
4. Perfect Pairings: This butter pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like steak or lamb. It also elevates roasted vegetables, baked potatoes, or even a simple bowl of pasta.
5. Presentation: For a more professional touch, try rolling the butter in parchment paper to form a perfect log. You can slice it into uniform rounds and serve it on a platter as an eye-catching accompaniment.

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter is a culinary game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their home-cooked meals with minimal effort. With its rich, herb-infused flavor, this compound butter can transform any simple dish into a gourmet experience.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this butter will become a staple in your kitchen. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to enhance everything from steaks to vegetables make it a true kitchen essential.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter

Jamie Oliver’s Café de Paris butter is a rich and flavorful compound butter that can elevate many dishes. While the original recipe is delicious on its own, experimenting with variations can bring out new tastes and pairings to suit different palates. Here are a few variations that can inspire creativity in your cooking:

1. Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs to your Café de Paris butter to create an even more aromatic version. Try finely chopped tarragon, parsley, or thyme for a burst of green flavor. The earthiness of these herbs complements the creamy butter and enhances the overall richness. For an even more unique twist, experiment with basil or dill.
2. Garlic and Shallots: For those who love a bit of extra savoriness, adding roasted garlic or finely minced shallots to the butter mixture is a great way to deepen the flavor. Garlic brings an extra layer of complexity, while shallots contribute a mild sweetness and a slight bite.
3. Spicy Kick: If you’re in the mood for heat, try mixing in finely minced fresh chili peppers or a dash of cayenne pepper. This spicy version of Café de Paris butter is perfect for pairing with grilled meats like steaks or chicken.
4. Lemon Zest & Capers: For a refreshing tangy twist, grate lemon zest and add chopped capers to the butter. The lemon zest brings brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the butter, while the capers add a briny bite that works wonderfully with seafood or even roasted vegetables.
5. Truffle Oil or Truffle Salt: For those who enjoy luxurious flavors, drizzle in some truffle oil or sprinkle in truffle salt. This version adds an earthy, fragrant note that’s perfect for drizzling over steaks, mashed potatoes, or pasta dishes.
6. Sun-Dried Tomatoes & Parmesan: For a Mediterranean twist, mix in finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes and grated Parmesan cheese. This variation adds a deep, umami-packed richness that works wonderfully with crusty bread, roasted chicken, or pasta.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

If you have any leftover Café de Paris butter, storing it properly will help maintain its flavor and texture. Follow these best practices to ensure that your butter stays fresh and delicious:

1. Refrigeration: Store your Café de Paris butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will preserve its fresh taste for up to a week. Make sure that the container is well-sealed to prevent the butter from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge.
2. Freezing: If you’ve made a large batch and want to keep it for an extended period, freezing the butter is a great option. Roll the butter into a log shape using parchment paper or plastic wrap, and then wrap it tightly in foil. You can slice off portions as needed, keeping the rest of the butter frozen until you’re ready to use it. This method helps preserve the flavors for up to three months.
3. Avoid Contamination: When storing the butter, avoid using utensils that have come into contact with other foods, as this can introduce bacteria and shorten the shelf life. Always use a clean utensil to scoop out the butter when needed.
4. Softening: If you plan to use the butter after storing it in the refrigerator or freezer, let it soften at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before spreading it. This will help it return to a smooth and spreadable consistency.

What Goes Well With Café De Paris Butter?

Café de Paris butter is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, particularly those with rich or hearty flavors. Here are some great pairings to consider when using this decadent butter:

1. Grilled Meats: The luxurious, savory flavor of Café de Paris butter is a match made in heaven for grilled steaks, lamb chops, or roasted chicken. The butter can be dolloped on top of the meat just before serving, allowing it to melt into the hot surface for a rich and flavorful finish.
2. Seafood: The creamy and slightly tangy taste of Café de Paris butter also pairs wonderfully with seafood. Try it with grilled lobster tails, seared scallops, or roasted fish like salmon or halibut. The butter adds a delightful complexity that complements the delicate flavors of the seafood.
3. Vegetables: For a plant-based option, drizzle Café de Paris butter over roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, carrots, or Brussels sprouts. The butter enhances the sweetness of the vegetables while adding a creamy texture.
4. Potatoes: Café de Paris butter is perfect for adding a rich touch to mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes. A dollop of the butter on top of a baked potato is also a simple yet indulgent way to elevate a classic dish.
5. Breads: Serve Café de Paris butter with crusty French bread, baguettes, or dinner rolls. The bread acts as a perfect vessel for absorbing the flavorful butter, creating a simple but luxurious side dish.
6. Pasta: Tossing freshly cooked pasta in a bit of Café de Paris butter is an easy way to transform a simple pasta dish into something extraordinary. It works especially well with pasta shapes that can hold onto the creamy butter, such as pappardelle or fusilli.
7. Egg Dishes: The richness of Café de Paris butter pairs beautifully with eggs. Whether you’re making scrambled eggs, an omelet, or poached eggs, the butter will elevate the dish and provide an indulgent experience.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Café de Paris butter is a versatile and easy-to-make condiment that can add a touch of gourmet flair to a wide range of dishes. Whether you choose to experiment with different flavor variations or store the butter for later use, its rich and savory qualities will always shine through. With its wide range of potential pairings, from grilled meats to fresh vegetables, Café de Paris butter is a must-have for any home cook looking to elevate their culinary creations.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter Recipe?

To make Jamie Oliver’s Cafe de Paris butter, you will need unsalted butter, Dijon mustard, capers, parsley, tarragon, garlic, anchovy fillets, lemon zest, paprika, and a few other simple seasoning ingredients like salt and pepper.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter Last In The Fridge?

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe de Paris butter can last up to a week in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the butter for up to 3 months.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can make Cafe de Paris butter ahead of time. In fact, allowing it to rest for a few hours or overnight in the fridge helps the flavors to meld together and intensify.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter?

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe de Paris butter is typically served with grilled or pan-fried steaks, but it can also be used on chicken, fish, or vegetables. Simply place a dollop on top of the hot dish just before serving.

Can I Substitute Any Ingredients In The Cafe De Paris Butter Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute certain ingredients. For example, if you don’t like anchovies, you can skip them or replace them with a dash of soy sauce for a similar umami flavor. You can also adjust herbs like tarragon or parsley based on your preference.

How Do I Make The Butter Soft Enough To Mix In The Ingredients?

To make the butter soft enough for mixing, ensure it is at room temperature before starting the recipe. Leave it out for about 30-60 minutes to soften, or if you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it in short bursts at low power.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter Recipe Spicy?

The recipe is mildly spicy due to the paprika, Dijon mustard, and sometimes a hint of cayenne pepper. However, it is not overwhelmingly hot. You can adjust the amount of paprika or omit it if you prefer a milder flavor.

What Can I Do With Leftover Cafe De Paris Butter?

Leftover Cafe de Paris butter can be used as a topping for other dishes, such as pasta, baked potatoes, or roasted vegetables. It also works well as a spread for sandwiches or as a flavorful addition to sauces.

Can I Make A Vegan Version Of Jamie Oliver’s Cafe De Paris Butter?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by using plant-based butter and replacing ingredients like anchovies with miso or soy sauce. Other changes might include using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor and omitting any dairy-based ingredients.

How Much Cafe De Paris Butter Does This Recipe Yield?

Jamie Oliver’s Cafe de Paris butter recipe typically yields about 200 grams (or 1 cup) of butter, depending on the consistency and the exact measurements used for each ingredient.