Description
Chimichurri butter is a flavorful, herby compound butter made by infusing unsalted butter with garlic, red chili, red wine vinegar, fresh parsley, and oregano. Perfect for elevating grilled steak, roast beef, cooked vegetables, and a variety of cooked proteins, this easy-to-make butter can be served warm or prepared ahead for convenience.
Ingredients
Butter Base
- 125g / 1 stick (8 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt (reduce by 30% if using table salt, increase by 30% if using flakes)
Aromatics & Herbs
- 3 tsp garlic, finely minced (3 – 4 cloves)
- 1 tsp large red chili, deseeded and finely minced (or Birds Eye/Thai chili for extra spiciness)
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or lemon juice)
- 1/4 cup finely minced parsley leaves (about 1 cup before chopping)
- 2 tbsp fresh oregano, finely minced
Instructions
- Sauté Butter and Aromatics: Melt the unsalted butter with the salt over medium heat in a pan. Add the finely minced garlic and red chili, sautéing until the garlic turns a very light golden color, approximately 30 seconds, ensuring the flavors infuse without burning the garlic.
- Cool and Add Herbs: Remove the pan from heat and allow the butter mixture to cool for at least 5 minutes. Once cooled, stir in the finely minced parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar just before serving to preserve their fresh flavors.
- Serve Warm: Serve the chimichurri butter while warm and melted by spooning it over steak, roast beef slices, cooked vegetables, or other cooked proteins such as fish, chicken, shrimp, or pork for an instant flavor boost.
- Make Ahead Option: The garlic butter can be prepared in advance and refrigerated overnight. Before serving, gently melt the butter to liquefy it again, then stir in the parsley and oregano to maintain freshness and vibrancy.
Notes
- Adjust salt levels based on the type of salt used: decrease by 30% if using table salt, increase by 30% if using flaky salt.
- For a spicier kick, swap the large red chili with Birds Eye or Thai chili.
- If using lemon juice instead of red wine vinegar, expect a slightly different, brighter acidity profile.
- This butter pairs exceptionally well with grilled meats and roasted vegetables, enhancing their natural flavors.
- Always add fresh herbs off heat to prevent bitterness and preserve color.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Argentinian
