Bread & Butter, California Recipe
Make Bread & Butter, California 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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Wine
Bread & Butter Pairing
Serving
Method
Wine
- 1
Chill & open
Place the California Chardonnay in the refrigerator at least 2 hours before serving, or 30–40 minutes in an ice bucket with ice and water. Serve chilled at 10–12°C (50–54°F). When ready to serve, wipe the bottle neck, remove the foil, and open the bottle with a corkscrew; pour a small tasting pour and observe aroma and balance.
Bread & Butter Pairing
- 2
Bring butter to spreadable temperature
Remove 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter from the refrigerator 20–30 minutes before serving so it becomes soft but not melted. If short on time, cut the butter into small cubes to speed softening.
- 3
Make flavored butter
In a small bowl, mash the softened butter with a fork until smooth. Stir in 1 tablespoon honey, 1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon zest, and 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (if using) until evenly combined. Taste and adjust: add a pinch more honey for sweetness or an extra 1/8 teaspoon lemon zest for brightness. Keep at room temperature (covered) until serving.
- 4
Prepare bread
Slice the baguette or country loaf into 1/2-inch (1–1.5 cm) diagonal slices. If you prefer warm bread, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), arrange slices on a baking sheet, and toast for 5–7 minutes until warm and just golden at the edges. Remove and let cool slightly.
- 5
Assemble and finish
Spread a generous layer of the flavored butter on each bread slice. Sprinkle each piece with a small pinch of sea salt flakes (about 1/8 teaspoon per couple slices) and a light twist of freshly ground black pepper if desired. Arrange on a serving board. Reserve a small dish of plain butter for guests who prefer no honey/herb.
Serving
- 6
Plate & accompany
Place the buttered bread slices on a board with optional cheese accompaniments (about 2 oz total—split between two cheeses). Provide toothpicks or small plates for guests. Pour the chilled Chardonnay into glasses (about 5 oz / 150 ml per serving) and serve immediately, encouraging guests to taste the wine with a buttered slice to experience the wine’s oak, fruit, and acidity interplay with the rich butter.
- 7
Storage
Leftover flavored butter can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Bring refrigerated butter back to room temperature before serving.