Clarified butter is a type of butter that has been processed to remove milk solids and water, leaving only the butterfat. This results in a more concentrated, richer flavor, a higher smoke point for cooking, and a longer shelf life in the refrigerator
. Some key characteristics of clarified butter include:
- Higher smoke point : Clarified butter has a higher smoke point than regular butter, making it ideal for cooking and sautéing at high temperatures
- Longer shelf life : Due to the removal of milk solids and water, clarified butter has a longer shelf life compared to regular butter
- Concentrated flavor : Clarified butter has a more concentrated and richer flavor than regular butter, which can be used in various dishes like pancakes, crab legs, roasted vegetables, and even in some Hollandaise recipes
The process of making clarified butter involves melting butter, skimming off the foam, and leaving the water in the bottom of the pan
. The resulting liquid is then strained through cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining solids
. Clarified butter can be stored in the refrigerator for about a month
