Better with butter

Unadulterated butter packs a bunch of nutrients like protein, 'good' fats and a host of vitamins, including A, D, K and B12. It also adds a taste of richness to almost all dishes, and the smell of butter also boosts the appeal of the dish served.

THE CLASSIC BREAKFAST STAPLE

Toast, butter and a sprinkle of sugar on top...need we say more? It can also serve as one of the best sides with pancakes, waffles and even 'parathas'! 

SUPER-COMBO: VEGETABLES AND BUTTER 

A recently published Swedish study reveals that unless consumed with high-fat dairy products, eating fruits and vegetables does not lower the risk of coronary heart disease!  

Adding dairy products to increase a dish's flavour is nothing new in our kitchens. Bangladeshi cooking practices have traditionally included a significant use of ghee - clarified butter, which is widely used for festival food. Butter, however, is a much healthier option.

Irrespective of the preparation, replacing oil with butter, or simply a dollop of butter on top, definitely adds to the palatability of any vegetable dish. Just two or three teaspoons of butter to pan-fried eggplants can transform the taste of this humble dish. 

Same goes for almost all vegetables: dice them up, mix in a spoonful of butter, sprinkle a pinch of salt, and bake in the oven or on a stove. 

GRILL THEM UP

When barbecuing meat such as chicken, beef or mutton, it is important to keep the meat juicy and take care that it does not stick to the hot surface of the grill. Depending on the size and the type of meat, and also depending on the chef's preference, butter can also be a basting medium, and not just a flavourful add-on. Add some paprika, red chilli flakes, garlic or ginger to the butter, mix it well and add it to your meat of choice. 

It is a common misconception that margarine is a good substitute for butter due to the similarity in taste and texture. This, in fact, is far from the truth! The trans-fatty acids in margarine contributes more to heart attacks, harms the immune system, increases LDL (the 'bad' cholesterol) and can induce diabetes. 

Butter, consumed in moderation, has tremendous health benefits. So, here is to a buttery smooth life!

By Mormee Mahtab

Photo: Collected