If you're a butter enthusiast, you may have already heard of pasture butter. A single tablespoon of this tasty dairy product contains 110 calories, making it a delicious addition to any meal. But what exactly is pasture butter? Let's delve into the details.
Pasture butter is essentially the same as conventional butter, only made from the milk of cows who graze in pasture rather than being fed with grains. It is produced using the same methods as regular butter, but the milk comes from cows that are only fed fresh grass and hay, which gives it a distinctive, rich flavor.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional information, benefits, and possible side effects of consuming pasture butter, as well as some tips on how to use it in cooking and pairing options. By the end, you'll have a better understanding of this butter variety and how it differs from regular butter.
What is pasture butter and how is it made?
As mentioned earlier, pasture butter is made from the milk of cows that have been grazing in pasture. The cows are typically raised in open fields, where they feed on fresh grass and hay. The milk from these cows is then taken and used to make butter using traditional methods. The process of making pasture butter is similar to that of regular butter. The milk is first separated into cream and skim milk. The cream is then churned using a traditional butter churn or a modern centrifugal separator until the fat solids separate from the liquid. The fat solids are then worked to remove extra moisture and salt is added to the butter to increase its shelf life. The end result is a delicious butter that not only has a richer flavor but may also be healthier due to the grass-fed cows' higher levels of beneficial fatty acids.
When it comes to nutritional value, pasture butter is comparable to conventional butter. It is high in fat and calories, with one tablespoon containing 110 calories, 12 grams of fat, and 7 grams of saturated fat. However, pasture butter may have some additional nutritional benefits due to the cows that produce the milk. Grass-fed cows are richer in beneficial fatty acids like omega-3s and CLA (conjugated linoleic acid), which may have potential health benefits. CLA, in particular, has been linked to potential anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties, as well as a reduction in body fat mass. While the levels of these beneficial fatty acids in pasture butter may not be particularly high, they may offer a slight advantage over conventional butter.
Benefits of consuming pasture butter
There are several potential benefits to consuming pasture butter in moderation, particularly if the cows are fed only on grass and hay. One such benefit is a potential boost in heart-healthy fatty acids like omega-3s. Grass-fed cows produce milk that is higher in these fatty acids than those fed with grains, which may offer some cardiovascular benefits. Consuming pasture butter may also help support local, small-scale farming practices and the animals' welfare, as well as reduce your carbon footprint, depending on where and how the butter is produced.
How to use pasture butter in cooking
Pasture butter can be used in any recipe that calls for butter. Its rich flavor makes it particularly delicious in baked goods like pastry crusts, biscuits, and cakes. It can also add a delicious depth of flavor to vegetable dishes like roasted carrots, mashed potatoes, or sautéed greens. When cooking with pasture butter, it's important to keep in mind that it may burn slightly faster than conventional butter due to its higher levels of fat. Be sure to keep the heat low and watch it carefully to prevent it from browning too quickly. Overall, pasture butter makes a fantastic addition to any recipe that calls for butter, whether used in baking or cooking. Its rich, complex flavor can add a new dimension to your favorite dishes.
Pairing options with pasture butter
When it comes to pairing pasture butter with other foods, the possibilities are endless. Its rich, creamy flavor pairs well with a variety of foods, from crusty bread to roasted meats to sautéed vegetables. One delicious way to enjoy pasture butter is to add it to breakfast foods like pancakes, waffles, or French toast. Its rich flavor can add a new dimension to these classic dishes, and its higher fat content can help keep you feeling full longer. Another great way to use pasture butter is to make a decadent compound butter. Simply mix in your favorite herbs or spices, like chopped garlic or dried rosemary, and use it to flavor dishes like grilled steak or roasted chicken.
Difference between pasture butter and conventional butter
The main difference between pasture butter and conventional butter is the cows that produce the milk. Pasture butter comes from cows that have been raised primarily on fresh grass and hay, while conventional butter comes from cows that are often fed grains like corn and soybeans. This difference in diet can affect the levels of beneficial fatty acids like omega-3s and CLA in the milk, which may make pasture butter slightly healthier than conventional butter. However, the difference in nutritional value between the two butter varieties is relatively small. Both are high in fat and calories, and should be consumed in moderation.
How to store pasture butter
When it comes to storing pasture butter, it's important to keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent it from melting or spoiling prematurely. If you have a large block of butter, you may want to cut off a piece and store the remaining butter in the fridge or freezer to extend its shelf life. If you store pasture butter in the freezer, be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to use it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Alternatives to pasture butter
If you're unable to find pasture butter or are looking for a dairy-free alternative, there are several options to choose from. One popular alternative is ghee, which is essentially clarified butter with the milk proteins removed. Another alternative is coconut oil, which is a popular choice in vegan and dairy-free dishes. Coconut oil has a similar consistency and flavor to butter and can be used in a variety of recipes that call for butter. It's worth noting that while these alternatives may be suitable for some recipes, they may not offer the same rich, complex flavor as pasture butter. If you're a butter lover, it's worth trying pasture butter at least once to experience its unique flavor and potential health benefits.
Possible side effects of consuming pasture butter
While pasture butter is generally safe to consume for most people, some individuals may experience side effects after consuming it. These include symptoms like bloating, gas, and stomach upset, particularly in individuals who are lactose intolerant. If you experience any of these symptoms after consuming pasture butter or other dairy products, you may want to consider dairy alternatives or speak to your doctor to determine if you have a lactose intolerance or dairy allergy.
Is pasture butter suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
While pasture butter may contain lower levels of lactose than conventional butter, it is still a dairy product and may trigger symptoms in individuals with lactose intolerance. If you have lactose intolerance, you may want to try small amounts of pasture butter to see how your body reacts. Alternatively, you may want to consider using non-dairy butter alternatives like ghee or coconut oil.
Pasture butter offers a unique, rich flavor that can add a new dimension to your favorite dishes. Whether used in baking or cooking, it's a delicious addition worth trying at least once.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Pasture Butter
1. What is pasture butter?
Pasture butter is a type of butter made from the milk of cows that have been raised on pasture. This means that the cows are able to graze on grass and other natural vegetation, which leads to a higher nutrient content in their milk. Pasture butter is often considered to be more flavorful and nutritious than other types of butter.
2. How is pasture butter made?
Pasture butter is made by churning cream that has been separated from the milk. The cream used to make pasture butter comes from cows that have been raised on pasture, so it tends to have a higher fat content and a richer flavor than cream from other sources. The cream is churned until the fat globules coagulate, separating from the liquid buttermilk. The resulting butter is then rinsed and may be salted before being packaged.
3. What are the nutritional benefits of pasture butter?
Because pasture butter comes from cows that have been raised on a natural diet of grass and other vegetation, it tends to be higher in nutrients like vitamins A and K, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients are beneficial for maintaining healthy eyesight, bone density, and cardiovascular health, respectively. Pasture butter is also a good source of healthy fats, which are important for many bodily functions.
4. How should pasture butter be stored?
Pasture butter should be stored in the refrigerator to help prevent spoilage. It can be left at room temperature for short periods of time, but should not be left out for extended periods of time. If the butter has been salted, it may keep for longer than unsalted butter. If you are storing butter for a longer period of time, consider freezing it in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap.
5. How can pasture butter be used in cooking?
Because of its rich flavor, pasture butter is often used in baking and cooking to add depth and richness to dishes. It can be used as a spread on toast or bread, melted over vegetables or meat, or used in place of oil or shortening in baking recipes. Because it has a higher smoke point than many other types of butter, it is also a good choice for pan-frying or sautéing.