Barrio Toast & Butter Recipe
Make Barrio Toast & Butter Recipe in just 25m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.
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Ingredients
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Bread & Toasting
Compound Butter (Barrio-style)
Finishes & Garnish
Method
Bread & Toasting
- 1
Prepare and toast bread
Bring thick-sliced bread to room temperature if chilled. Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat until hot (about 3–4 minutes). Lightly brush both sides of each slice with 1 tablespoon of the room-temperature unsalted butter. Place bread in the hot pan and toast 2–3 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until deeply golden with charred lines. Transfer to a rack to keep crisp.
Compound Butter (Barrio-style)
- 2
Make the compound butter
In a medium bowl, combine 6 tablespoons softened unsalted butter with grated garlic, lime zest, lime juice, smoked paprika, ground cumin, finely chopped cilantro, fine sea salt, black pepper, and optional pickled jalapeños if using. Mix thoroughly with a spatula or fork until evenly distributed and smooth. Taste and adjust salt, lime, or jalapeño to preference.
- 3
Portion and chill (optional)
For neat presentation, transfer butter onto a piece of plastic wrap, roll into a log, twist ends, and chill 15–30 minutes until slightly firm. Alternatively, keep at room temperature for immediate spreading.
Assembly & Finishes
- 4
Butter and finish the toast
While toast is still warm, spread about 1 tablespoon of the room-temperature unsalted butter on each slice to create a base. Next, spread about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the Barrio-style compound butter per slice (or a thin ribbon if using a chilled log).
- 5
Add cheese and garnish
Sprinkle each slice evenly with about 1/2 tablespoon of crumbled cotija or grated parmesan. Scatter a few cilantro leaves over the top and finish with a light pinch of flaky sea salt. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the toast just before eating.
- 6
Serve
Place 2 slices per serving on a plate while warm. Recommend serving immediately so the compound butter melts slightly into the toast, providing a glossy, savory finish.