Butter is a dairy product made from cream separated from cow’s milk. It consists mainly of milk fat, protein and water. As a product of animal origin, butter is a valuable source of many nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K) and fatty acids such as butyric acid, which also has anti-inflammatory effects. Butter also provides minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, as well as phospholipidsamong others lecithin supporting the structure and functioning of cell membranes
Butter, when consumed in moderation, can be a healthy part of your diet thanks to numerous health properties. However, due to their high saturated fat content, it is best to consume them within their recommended daily limit. Excess saturated fats can raise LDL cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Their recommended daily intake is approximately 10% of the daily calorie requirement. This means that for a healthy adult with an average caloric requirement of approximately 2000 kcal, the maximum amount of saturated fat is about 20 grams per day, which is equivalent to three tablespoons of butter.
Depending on your needs, available time and tools, you can use several proven and simple methods for softening butter:
- Leave on the counter (easiest method)
Take the butter out of the fridge and place it on the counter at room temperature. After about 30-60 minutes, it will soften enough to be ready for use. To speed up the process, you can cut the butter into smaller pieces or thin slices – smaller fragments soften faster.
- Cover with a warm bowl or jar
Fill the bowl with hot water and wait a moment for it to warm up. Then pour out the water and dry the bowl thoroughly. Place the butter on the counter and cover it with a warm bowl – heat will accelerate softening.
Butter can be quickly softened in the microwave. Place them on a plate and set the device to the lowest power setting. Heat in short intervals lasting 5–10 secondsand check its consistency after each cycle to prevent complete melting.
Place the butter in a glass bowl. Then place it over a pot of hot, but not boiling, water. Stir the butter gently to soften evenlywithout the risk of melting it.
Hard butter can be grated on a coarse grater. The resulting thin chips soften faster and are more plastic, this will make the butter perfect for spreading.
