Smoked Bacon Butter

FOR GRILLED DISHES

If you’re not barbecuing something else, make this smoked butter in a stovetop smoker or other easily fired-up smoker. Bacon drippings and a bit of smoked paprika help contribute a good measure of outdoorsy character. Try the compound butter on grilled corn on the cob or fish as well as poultry.

Infusing butter with the rich, smoky flavor of bacon takes ordinary butter to an extraordinary level, adding depth and complexity to your dishes. This decadent condiment is a delightful addition to various dishes, from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. The combination of butter and bacon drippings is an indulgent treat that elevates the taste of your creations.

The recipe combines the creamy goodness of unsalted butter with the savory essence of bacon drippings. The addition of soy sauce or salt, along with smoked Spanish paprika, enhances the overall profile with umami and smokiness. The paprika adds not only flavor but also a visually appealing touch of color to the butter.

The process involves melting the butter and bacon drippings together, allowing them to combine and infuse with the flavors of the smoker. The result is a rich, smoky butter with the essence of bacon. Once smoked and melted, the butter can be used immediately, or it can be chilled and formed into a log for later use. Slathered on grilled foods, the smoked bacon butter imparts a mouthwatering smokiness that takes your dishes to a new level of deliciousness.

Smoked bacon butter offers versatility in the kitchen. Spread it over grilled steaks, chicken, or seafood for an instant burst of flavor. Use it to baste vegetables while roasting, or melt it over freshly popped popcorn for a savory snack. It can also be spread on warm, crusty bread to create a memorable and indulgent appetizer. The combination of the butter’s smooth texture and the bacon’s smoky allure makes this condiment a star ingredient in both simple and elaborate culinary creations.

While the smoked flavor may gradually fade over time, the butter can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days after preparation. Its ability to enhance dishes with its unique taste and aroma ensures that every use is a delightful experience. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or simply spreading it on bread, smoked bacon butter offers a taste of smoky luxury that elevates your culinary endeavors.

MAKES: ABOUT 1 CUP

INGREDIENTS:

• 8 tablespoons (1 stick) chilled unsalted butter, cut into 2-tablespoon chunks
• ½ cup chilled bacon drippings
• 1 or 2 teaspoons soy sauce or a light sprinkling of kosher salt or coarse sea salt
• 1 teaspoon smoked Spanish paprika

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Prepare your smoker for barbecuing, bringing the temperature to 180°F to 220°F. If you are using a stovetop smoker, the butter will cook at a higher heat, so reduce the cooking time.
2. Place the butter and bacon drippings in a smoke-proof shallow dish. Shake the soy sauce over and sprinkle with the paprika. Place the dish in the smoker, as far away from the heat as possible. Cook until melted, about 15 minutes.
3. Use as is, or chill the butter until it begins to firm. Form it into a log, cover, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. It will keep for another week, but gradually the smokiness fades. Slather on grilled foods once or twice as they cook.

SPICING TIP:

• We suggest unsalted butter in many recipes, even ones that we add salt to—in the form of soy sauce in this case. Different brands of salted butters can vary a good bit in their sodium level. Using the precise amount of salt you like gives you control over the result. Salt acts as a preservative, so salted butter keeps longer, but it doesn’t necessarily keep its sweet, fresh flavor throughout its shelf life. To extend the life of unsalted butter, you can freeze it for up to several weeks.