Perfect Drawn Butter for Seafood

Name: Perfect Drawn Butter for Seafood
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter (cut into pieces)

15 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Learn how to make the perfect drawn butter for dipping seafood, with easy steps and tips for achieving a smooth, clarified finish.

Prep

5 min

Cook

10 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Drawn butter, also known as clarified butter, is a staple accompaniment for seafood dishes, particularly lobster and crab. By removing the milk solids and water, you create a pure butterfat that enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. This version of drawn butter is straightforward and reliable, providing you with a rich, smooth dipping sauce every time. It's perfect for anyone looking to elevate their seafood dining experience with minimal effort.

Instructions

Melt the butter

Place the butter pieces in a small saucepan over low heat. Allow the butter to melt slowly without stirring.

Pro tip: Melting the butter slowly helps prevent it from browning.

Separate the layers

Once melted, the butter will separate into three layers: foam on top, clarified butter in the middle, and milk solids at the bottom.

Pro tip: Use a spoon to gently skim off the foam.

Clarify the butter

Continue to cook the butter on low heat for about 5 minutes, allowing the milk solids to sink to the bottom.

Pro tip: Do not stir the butter during this process.

Strain the butter

Carefully pour the middle layer of clarified butter through a fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth into a heatproof bowl, leaving the milk solids behind.

Pro tip: Ensure no solids pass through for a clear finish.

Serve the butter

Pour the clarified butter into a small serving dish. Keep warm over a low heat source if necessary.

Pro tip: Use a small fondue pot or candle warmer to keep the butter warm.

Store leftovers

Allow any leftover drawn butter to cool, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Pro tip: Reheat gently over low heat to serve again.

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Tips & Tricks

Use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning.
Clarify slowly to avoid browning the butter.
Keep the temperature low to prevent burning.
Strain through a fine mesh sieve for a smooth finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is drawn butter?

Drawn butter is another term for clarified butter, where milk solids and water are removed to leave pure butterfat.

How do you make drawn butter?

To make drawn butter, melt unsalted butter, skim the foam, and strain out the milk solids, leaving only the clear butterfat.

What is drawn butter used for?

Drawn butter is commonly used as a dipping sauce for seafood like lobster, crab, and shrimp, and can also enhance grilled vegetables.

How long does drawn butter last?

Drawn butter can last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container.

Can you freeze drawn butter?

Yes, drawn butter can be frozen for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat gently before use.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your drawn butter warm alongside a platter of freshly steamed lobster, crab, or shrimp. This buttery sauce also pairs beautifully with grilled fish or vegetables. You can prepare drawn butter up to several days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and gently reheat it before serving. Be sure to keep the temperature low to maintain its smooth texture.

Nutrition per serving

204

Calories

Protein

23g

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