Café de Paris Butter for Steak

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Café de Paris Butter is a luxurious, flavor-packed compound butter perfect for elevating any steak. Originating from Geneva, Switzerland, this rich butter is infused with a blend of herbs, spices, and savory ingredients that melt beautifully over hot meat. It brings a gourmet touch to your home-cooked steak, offering a balance of tangy, creamy, and umami flavors in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted buttershallotgarlicDijon mustardWorcestershire saucetomato pastecapersanchovy filletsfresh parsleyfresh chivesfresh thymepaprikacurry powdersalt and pepperlemon juicelime juice (optional)brandy (or cognac)

directions

Let the butter come to room temperature for easier mixing.

Finely chop the shallot, garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, capers, and anchovies.

In a bowl, mix the softened butter with the chopped ingredients until well combined.

Add Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, paprika, curry powder, lemon juice, lime juice (if using), and a splash of brandy.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Place the butter on a sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap and form into a log shape.

Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until firm.

Slice and place a medallion on top of freshly grilled or pan-seared steak just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings of compound butter.Preparation time: 15 minutesChilling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Substitute brandy with white wine or omit alcohol entirely for a non-alcoholic version.

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for heat.

Use tarragon or rosemary for a different herb profile.

Mix in a small amount of blue cheese for added richness.

storage/reheating

Store Café de Paris Butter in the fridge wrapped in plastic or parchment for up to 1 week.It can also be frozen for up to 3 months—slice off portions as needed.No reheating is required; just place on hot steak to melt naturally.

FAQs

What does Café de Paris Butter taste like?

It’s creamy, savory, slightly tangy, and herbaceous, with a subtle depth from the anchovy and brandy.

Can I make it in advance?

Yes, it’s best made ahead of time to allow flavors to meld.

Is anchovy flavor strong?

No, it blends in to enhance umami and does not make the butter taste fishy.

Can I leave out any ingredients?

Yes, but for authentic flavor, try to include at least the herbs, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce.

Can I use dried herbs?

Fresh herbs are preferred, but dried can work in smaller quantities.

What steak goes best with this butter?

Ribeye, filet mignon, and sirloin are all excellent choices.

Is it only for steak?

No, it’s also delicious on roasted vegetables, chicken, or baked potatoes.

Can I use a food processor?

Yes, for a smoother, more homogenous texture.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, and freeze extra portions for future use.

Is it spicy?

Not typically, but you can adjust spices to your taste.

Conclusion

Café de Paris Butter is a decadent addition that transforms any steak into a gourmet experience. Bursting with herbs, spices, and savory complexity, this compound butter is a must-try for steak lovers looking to elevate their meals at home. Easy to prepare and store, it’s a flavorful staple you’ll want to keep on hand.

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