Drawn butter

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Drawn butter, also known as clarified butter, is a form of butter that has been melted over low heat and allowed to separate into its different components: milk solids, water, and butterfat. This process results in a translucent, golden liquid known as drawn butter, which is prized for its purity, clarity, and rich, nutty flavor. It is a staple in various cuisines around the world, particularly in Indian cuisine, where it is known as ghee, and in French cuisine, where it is used in a variety of sauces and dishes.

Preparation

The preparation of drawn butter involves gently melting unsalted butter over low heat without stirring. As the butter melts, it separates into three layers: the top layer consists of foam, which is skimmed off; the middle layer is the clear golden butterfat; and the bottom layer contains water and milk solids. The clear butterfat is then carefully decanted or strained through a fine sieve or cheesecloth to separate it from the water and milk solids. The resulting liquid is the drawn butter, which can be used immediately or stored for future use.

Uses

Drawn butter has a wide range of culinary uses. It is commonly served as a dipping sauce for seafood, particularly lobster and crab. Its high smoke point makes it an excellent choice for sautéing and frying, as it does not burn as easily as regular butter. Drawn butter is also used in the preparation of various sauces, including the classic Hollandaise sauce, and in baking, where it imparts a rich flavor without the water content of whole butter, resulting in flakier pastries.

Cultural Significance

In Indian cuisine, ghee (a type of drawn butter) holds a place of cultural and religious significance. It is used not only in cooking but also in Ayurveda for its purported health benefits, and in Hindu rituals as an offering to the gods. Ghee is considered to be more digestible than whole butter and is valued for its nutritional properties.

Storage

Drawn butter can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several weeks. Because the milk solids and water have been removed, it has a longer shelf life than regular butter. It can also be frozen for extended storage.

Nutritional Information

While drawn butter is rich in fats, it is free of the milk solids found in whole butter, making it a possible option for those with mild lactose intolerance. However, like all fats, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

See Also

• Butter
• Ghee
• Hollandaise sauce
• Indian cuisine
• French cuisine