Salted Butter - Nutrients & Benefits - Culinary Uses - Types

Nutritional properties of Salted Butter Energy :
717.00 Kcal / 100g

Category : Dairy Products

Group : Butter

Composition And Nutritional Value :
Salted butter is made by churning cream to separate butterfat from the buttermilk, with the addition of salt for flavor and preservation. Like unsalted butter, salted butter contains about 80% fat, with the remaining 20% consisting of water and milk solids. The addition of salt not only enhances the flavor but also acts as a preservative, extending the shelf life of the butter. Salted butter is a good source of vitamins A and D, which are essential for immune function, vision, and bone health. However, the added salt increases its sodium content, which can be a consideration for those monitoring their salt intake.

Health Benefits :
Salted butter provides several health benefits due to its vitamin content and fat composition. The fat in butter offers energy, and the short-chain fatty acids like butyrate support gut health and reduce inflammation. The vitamin A in salted butter promotes healthy skin, vision, and immune function, while vitamin D helps in calcium absorption, benefiting bone health. However, the added salt increases the sodium content, which could potentially contribute to high blood pressure or other heart-related issues if consumed excessively. While moderate consumption of salted butter can be part of a healthy diet, it should be used in moderation, particularly for individuals on low-sodium diets.

Culinary Uses :
Salted butter is widely used in cooking, baking, and as a condiment due to its flavor-enhancing properties. It is ideal for spreading on bread, toast, or crackers, providing a savory touch. In baking, salted butter can add an extra layer of flavor to cookies, cakes, and pastries, although some recipes may require a careful balance of salt. Salted butter can be used in sautéing, frying, or for melting over vegetables, pasta, or meats to boost the richness and taste of dishes. It is also used to prepare sauces, like garlic butter or compound butters, which benefit from the added salt for enhanced flavor.

Types :
Salted butter comes in various types, mainly differing in the amount of salt added and the fat content. Most salted butter varieties contain about 80-82% fat and include around 1-2% salt, though some brands may vary in salt content. There are also specialty salted butters, such as European-style salted butter, which is churned longer to have a higher fat content (around 82-85%) and a creamier texture. Other variations of salted butter include those made with sea salt or flavored salts, which can add a unique taste profile. Some brands offer reduced-sodium salted butter for those who want the flavor of salted butter but with less sodium.

Shopping And Storage Tips :
When shopping for salted butter, look for a fresh, creamy texture and a smooth, uniform color. Salted butter can be purchased in blocks, sticks, or tubs, and may be labeled with the amount of salt added. Always check the ingredient list to ensure that it doesn't contain artificial additives or preservatives, other than salt. Store salted butter in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and to prevent it from becoming too soft or rancid. It can be kept in its original packaging, or wrapped in wax paper or plastic wrap. Salted butter can also be stored at room temperature for short periods, particularly if used frequently, but should be kept in a cool, dry place. For longer storage, salted butter can be frozen, although freezing may slightly alter its texture, making it better suited for cooking or baking. Always check the expiration date to ensure the butter is fresh.

Vitamins / 100g ( µg )

Macronutrients / 100g ( µg )

Minerals / 100g ( µg )

What can you make with Salted Butter?

Find the perfect meal tailored to your dietary needs and preferences.