Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter is a vibrant, flavorful twist on a classic condiment. It combines the richness of butter with the fresh, aromatic notes of wild garlic, making it a versatile addition to many dishes-from grilled meats and vegetables to simple toast.
What Is Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter
Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter is a simple yet delicious butter recipe infused with the fragrant, earthy flavor of wild garlic. Wild garlic, also known as ramps or ramsons, is a wild plant with a garlicky taste that grows in woodlands during spring.
This butter recipe brings out the essence of wild garlic, blending it with creamy butter and seasoning, creating a fresh and herbal condiment that elevates everyday meals. The resulting spread is versatile enough for everything from spreading on crusty bread to melting over grilled fish or vegetables.
Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter Recipe
Ingredients Needed

The beauty of Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Butter (unsalted, room temperature): 250g – The base of the butter, providing a smooth, creamy texture.
- Wild Garlic Leaves: About 100g – The star ingredient that imparts a distinctive garlicky taste without being too overpowering.
- Lemon Zest: A teaspoon – Adds brightness and a fresh zing that balances the richness of the butter.
- Sea Salt: A pinch – Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients and ensures the butter is well-seasoned.
- Black Pepper: A few cracks – For a little added depth and heat.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (optional) – Some people like to add olive oil to give the butter a lighter, smoother texture, but this is optional.
Equipment Needed
To make this Wild Garlic Butter, you’ll need just a few basic kitchen tools:
- Food Processor or Sharp Knife: To finely chop the wild garlic leaves. If you prefer a smoother butter, a food processor is ideal.
- Mixing Bowl: To combine the butter and wild garlic.
- Spatula: For mixing and scraping the butter into a container.
- Small Grater: For zesting the lemon.
- Container or Parchment Paper: To store the butter once it’s made. A small jar or a plastic wrap roll will work well.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
Making Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter is incredibly straightforward and quick. Here’s how:
- Prepare the Wild Garlic: Wash the wild garlic thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. If you’re using a knife, finely chop the leaves into small pieces. If you have a food processor, pulse the garlic until finely chopped.
- Mix the Butter: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with the wild garlic. Use a spatula or spoon to fold the garlic into the butter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
- Add the Zest and Seasoning: Grate the lemon zest into the mixture and add a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Stir everything together until the butter is smooth and well-seasoned. If you’re using olive oil, add it at this stage to achieve the desired consistency.
- Shape and Store: Transfer the wild garlic butter to a container or roll it into a log using parchment paper. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together. You can store it in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage.
Expert Tips
- Use Fresh Wild Garlic: While you can substitute wild garlic with regular garlic or garlic chives, using fresh wild garlic leaves gives the butter a unique and fresh flavor. If you’re making the butter in a different season when wild garlic is not available, try using other herbs like parsley, chives, or even tarragon for a similar herby taste.
- Let the Butter Rest: For the best flavor, let the butter sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to come together and the butter to soften slightly for easy spreading.
- Experiment with Add-ins: If you like extra richness, you can experiment by adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a pinch of smoked paprika for added depth of flavor.
- Freeze for Convenience: If you make a large batch, you can freeze the butter in small portions. Roll it into a log and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then freeze. Simply slice off pieces as needed.
Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter

Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter is a vibrant, flavorful spread that captures the essence of spring. Its simplicity makes it a perfect recipe for anyone looking to enhance their meals with minimal effort.
However, this butter can be easily adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Below are a few creative variations that will allow you to put your own spin on the classic recipe.
- Lemon Zest and Thyme: Add a zest of lemon and a few sprigs of fresh thyme to the butter mixture. The citrusy brightness from the lemon enhances the earthy flavor of the wild garlic, while thyme introduces a subtle herbaceous note that complements the garlic beautifully.
- Chili and Ginger Kick: For a spicy twist, chop up a small red chili and a small piece of fresh ginger. Both ingredients will give the butter a spicy heat and a slight tanginess. This variation pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a dip for crusty bread.
- Cheese Infused Butter: Incorporate a strong cheese such as Parmesan or blue cheese into the butter. Grate a generous amount and mix it through the wild garlic butter for a rich, umami-packed version that will work perfectly as a topping for pasta or roasted vegetables.
- Vegan Wild Garlic Butter: For a plant-based alternative, swap the regular butter with a vegan variety such as a coconut-based or cashew butter. This version maintains the fresh, vibrant flavors of the wild garlic while catering to those following a dairy-free lifestyle.
- Smoked Paprika and Mustard: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika and a small dollop of Dijon mustard to the mix for a smoky, tangy finish. The smokiness adds depth, while the mustard gives a sharpness that works wonders on grilled vegetables or meats.
- Herb Medley: Along with the wild garlic, try blending other herbs like parsley, basil, or chives into the butter. A herb medley will give the butter a fuller, more layered flavor that is perfect for spreading on warm bread or dolloping onto mashed potatoes.
- Maple and Walnut Sweet Version: For a sweet twist, add a tablespoon of maple syrup and a handful of finely chopped toasted walnuts. This variation is perfect for spreading on pancakes, waffles, or toast in the morning.
These variations add depth and complexity to the original recipe, ensuring that you can tailor the butter to your tastes, whether you’re looking for something sweet, spicy, or savory.
Best Practices To Store Leftovers
Wild Garlic Butter, with its fresh herbs and rich, creamy texture, is a luxurious treat that can easily be stored for later use. However, proper storage is key to maintaining its vibrant flavor and texture. Here are some best practices for storing leftover wild garlic butter:
- Refrigeration: If you plan to use the butter within a week, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The butter will keep for about 5 to 7 days. It is important that the container is tightly sealed to prevent any odors from the fridge from affecting the flavor.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: If you have more butter than you can use in a week, freezing is a great option. Portion the butter into small amounts using an ice cube tray or silicone molds. This way, you can easily pop out individual servings as needed. Once frozen, transfer the cubes or portions into a resealable plastic bag or airtight container. Frozen wild garlic butter will last up to 3 months.
- Avoiding Over-Exposing to Air: The biggest enemy of fresh herbs is air, which can cause oxidation and loss of flavor. If you’re storing the butter in a jar, press a piece of parchment paper directly on top of the butter before sealing the jar. This helps to minimize exposure to oxygen and maintain the freshness for a longer time.
- Labeling: Whether you’re refrigerating or freezing your wild garlic butter, always label your containers with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the butter has been stored, ensuring it is consumed before it starts to lose its best quality.
- Use Glass or Ceramic Containers: If possible, store the butter in glass or ceramic containers rather than plastic. These materials are more inert and less likely to affect the flavor of your butter over time.
- Re-softening: If you’ve frozen the butter, you can easily soften it at room temperature for a few minutes before use. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts on a low power setting, ensuring it doesn’t melt completely, just soft enough to spread or cook with.
By following these storage guidelines, you can preserve the flavor and quality of your wild garlic butter, making it available for multiple uses, even if you’ve made a large batch.
What Goes Well With Wild Garlic Butter?
Wild garlic butter is a versatile condiment that pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious pairings to consider:
- Grilled Meats: Wild garlic butter makes an exceptional topping for steaks, grilled chicken, or lamb. The rich butter enhances the savory, charred flavors of the meat, creating a mouthwatering contrast.
- Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle wild garlic butter over roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts. The butter melts into the vegetables, infusing them with herbaceous richness.
- Bread and Rolls: The simplest and most comforting way to enjoy wild garlic butter is by spreading it generously on fresh, warm bread. Whether it’s a crusty baguette, focaccia, or soft dinner rolls, wild garlic butter adds a delicious burst of flavor.
- Pasta: Tossing a dollop of wild garlic butter through freshly cooked pasta turns a simple dish into something extraordinary. The creamy, herb-packed butter coats the pasta beautifully, and it can be complemented with some grated Parmesan or a handful of pine nuts for added texture.
- Eggs: Wild garlic butter works wonderfully with scrambled eggs, poached eggs, or even on top of a fried egg. The richness of the butter pairs perfectly with the delicate flavor of eggs.
- Seafood: Fish such as salmon, cod, or trout is enhanced when served with a spoonful of wild garlic butter. The herby flavors bring out the freshness of the seafood without overpowering it.
- Mashed Potatoes: Stirring wild garlic butter into mashed potatoes gives them a new depth of flavor. The creaminess of the butter combined with the wild garlic makes for a luxurious side dish.
- Pizza: Instead of your usual pizza drizzle, use wild garlic butter to brush over the crust before baking, or drizzle it on top of your pizza once it’s out of the oven. It gives an extra burst of flavor that transforms the pizza.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Smear wild garlic butter on hot grilled corn for a deliciously fragrant twist on this summer classic. The sweet corn combined with the herbal, garlicky butter is an unbeatable combination.
These pairings show just how flexible wild garlic butter can be, making it a go-to condiment that can elevate everything from casual snacks to full-course meals.
Conclusion
Wild Garlic Butter, as championed by Jamie Oliver, is a simple yet elegant addition to any meal. With endless possibilities for variations and ways to store it, it can be a pantry staple in every kitchen, especially when wild garlic is in season.
Whether you keep it fresh and vibrant with a tang of lemon, or add a bit of spice with chili, this butter brings a fresh, herbaceous touch to both everyday dishes and special meals. Pairing it with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, pasta, or even bread offers a world of delicious opportunities, making it the perfect addition to your culinary repertoire. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients to tailor it to your tastes, and enjoy the flexibility and vibrant flavors that this butter brings to the table.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter Recipe?
To make Jamie Oliver’s wild garlic butter, you will need the following ingredients: unsalted butter, fresh wild garlic leaves, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and lemon juice. These ingredients combine to create a rich and fragrant butter perfect for spreading on bread or using in cooking.
Can I Use Regular Garlic Instead Of Wild Garlic For Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
While wild garlic (also known as ramsons) has a unique, milder garlic flavor, you can substitute regular garlic in a pinch. However, the taste will differ, as wild garlic has a more delicate and herbal flavor compared to the stronger, pungent taste of regular garlic.
How Do I Prepare The Wild Garlic For Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
To prepare the wild garlic, rinse the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, roughly chop the leaves before incorporating them into the butter mixture. This helps release their flavors and ensures an even distribution in the butter.
How Long Can I Store Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
Jamie Oliver’s wild garlic butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. If you want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in a freezer-safe container.
What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
Jamie Oliver’s wild garlic butter is versatile and can be served in various ways. It’s fantastic spread on freshly baked bread, melted over vegetables, drizzled on meats, or used to enhance pasta. You can also serve it alongside roasted potatoes for a delicious, herb-infused touch.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter Vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of Jamie Oliver’s wild garlic butter by using plant-based butter instead of dairy butter. The rest of the recipe remains the same, allowing you to enjoy the fresh flavors of wild garlic without compromising on your dietary preferences.
How Can I Enhance The Flavor Of Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
To enhance the flavor, you can add other herbs or spices to the butter. Fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or thyme complement the wild garlic nicely. A little grated Parmesan cheese or a splash of white wine vinegar can also deepen the flavor of the butter.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter Suitable For A Dairy-free Diet?
No, the traditional version of Jamie Oliver’s wild garlic butter is made with unsalted dairy butter. However, as mentioned, you can make it dairy-free by substituting the butter with a plant-based alternative such as coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine.
How Much Wild Garlic Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Wild Garlic Butter?
Jamie Oliver’s recipe typically calls for a generous handful of fresh wild garlic leaves, approximately 50g (about 1.5 oz). You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you want the garlic flavor to be.
Can I Use Dried Wild Garlic In Jamie Oliver’s Butter Recipe?
It’s best to use fresh wild garlic for this recipe to get the most vibrant and aromatic flavor. Dried wild garlic lacks the moisture and fresh, green notes that make the butter so fragrant. However, if you have to use dried wild garlic, use a smaller amount, as the flavor is more concentrated.