Craft Beer Butter

FOR GRILLED DISHES

Craft Beer Butter is a delightful and unique condiment that combines the rich flavors of craft beer with the creamy richness of butter. It is a versatile sauce that can elevate various dishes, particularly grilled or roasted meats. The combination of beer and butter creates a luscious, velvety texture with a balanced taste that adds depth and complexity to your favorite recipes.

To make Craft Beer Butter, you start by reducing the craft beer in a saucepan, which intensifies its flavors and concentrates its taste. This reduction process allows the beer to infuse its distinct characteristics into the butter, creating a harmonious blend. You can enhance the glaze further by adding optional ingredients like fresh hops panicles and minced garlic, which add subtle notes and aromas to the sauce.

The finished Craft Beer Butter glaze is not only delicious but also visually appealing, with a beautiful amber hue that adds an appetizing touch to your dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with grilled or barbecued pork, creating a mouthwatering combination that will delight your taste buds.

This glaze is an excellent addition to your culinary repertoire, whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, preparing a special dinner, or simply looking to add an extra burst of flavor to your meals. Its versatility allows you to get creative and experiment with different craft beer styles to tailor the glaze to your preferences.

Craft Beer Butter is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a remarkable sauce that elevates the flavors of your favorite dishes. Its unique blend of beer and butter is sure to impress and delight both guests and family alike, making it a must-try recipe for any food enthusiast.

MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 bottle or can (12 oz) medium-bodied beer
• 2 tablespoons fresh hops panicles (optional)
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut into 8 pieces
• Kosher salt or coarse sea salt

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a saucepan, pour the beer and add the fresh hops panicles and minced garlic, if using.
2. Over medium heat, bring the mixture to a simmer and then reduce it by half.
3. Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the pieces of unsalted butter, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
4. Season with kosher salt or coarse sea salt to taste.
5. Serve the glaze warm at the table, either on or alongside grilled pork. Enjoy the delicious beer-infused buttery flavor!

VARIATIONS:

• Beer Selection: Experiment with different types of craft beer to vary the flavor profile of the butter. Try using a rich and malty stout for a deep and robust taste, a hoppy IPA for a more citrusy and bitter note, or a fruity wheat beer for a lighter and refreshing twist.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh or dried herbs to the butter to infuse it with additional aromas and flavors. Rosemary, thyme, or sage would complement the beer’s complexity and add an earthy and herbal touch.
• Sweet and Spicy: For a sweet and spicy twist, incorporate a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup and a pinch of red pepper flakes into the reduction. This combination will provide a perfect balance of flavors.
• Citrus Zest: Enhance the sauce with some citrus zest from oranges, lemons, or limes. The bright citrus notes will lift the overall taste and add a refreshing element to the butter.
• Smoked Flavor: If you enjoy smoky flavors, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke or smoked paprika to the sauce. This will give the butter a delightful smokiness reminiscent of grilled meats.
• Bourbon Butter: Replace the craft beer with bourbon for a Bourbon Butter glaze. The rich and woody notes of bourbon pair wonderfully with the butter, creating a luxurious and indulgent sauce.
• Maple-Bacon Twist: Cook some bacon until crispy, then crumble it into the butter along with a drizzle of maple syrup. This combination will add a savory-sweet element that pairs excellently with pork dishes.
• Garlic and Herb: Boost the garlic flavor by sautéing minced garlic in a little butter before adding the craft beer reduction. Additionally, incorporate a mix of fresh herbs like parsley, chives, and tarragon for added depth.