Butter Over Sauce?

When it comes to sandwiches and tartines, sauces usually steal the show with their rich flavors. But what if there’s a simpler and more versatile option right in front of you? Enter butter—flavored, whipped, and sometimes a little fancy. This everyday ingredient can easily replace sauces, adding texture and flavor while giving your favorite dishes a bit of a gourmet touch.

Why Butter Works Wonders

Butter is creamy and simple, but it brings a richness that can compete with fancy sauces. When you spread it on bread, it creates a barrier that keeps things from getting soggy, especially with juicy toppings like tomatoes or cucumbers. Plus, butter really soaks up flavors, making it great for highlighting herbs, spices, and zests, so you get all those tasty flavors bursting on your taste buds.

For those who think butter is too plain, think again. Aromated butters (or compound butters) can elevate your sandwich or tartine game, replacing the need for mayonnaise, mustard, or other condiments.

Here are a few recipes to try:

1. Garlic & Herb Butter

Perfect for: Roast beef sandwiches, vegetable tartines

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 tbsp parsley, finely chopped

  • 1 tsp thyme leaves

  • A pinch of salt and pepper

• Preparation:
  Mix all ingredients until well combined. Spread generously on crusty bread before adding your toppings.

2. Lemon & Dill Butter

Perfect for: Smoked salmon tartines, cucumber sandwiches

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped

  • 1 tsp lemon juice

  • A pinch of sea salt

• Preparation:
  Blend all ingredients together. Chill for 10 minutes before spreading to let the flavors meld beautifully.

3. Honey & Walnut Butter

Perfect for: Cheese tartines, breakfast sandwiches

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

  • 1 tbsp honey

  • 2 tbsp finely chopped walnuts

  • A sprinkle of cinnamon (optional)

• Preparation:
  Combine all ingredients and spread over bread topped with brie or camembert for a sweet-savory twist.

4. Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Butter

Perfect for: Grilled chicken sandwiches, mozzarella tartines

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

  • 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped

  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • A pinch of salt

• Preparation:
  Mix and spread on bread before layering with grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and arugula.

5. Spiced Maple Butter

Perfect for: Ham sandwiches, breakfast tartines

• Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)

  • 1 tbsp maple syrup

  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

  • 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon

  • A pinch of chili flakes (for a kick!)

• Preparation:
  Whisk all ingredients together until smooth. Add to warm bread for a cozy, spiced finish.

The Butter Advantage

Switching from sauce to butter has its perks:

1. Shelf Life: Butter holds its flavor longer than many sauces.

2. Customizable: Easy to adapt to different flavor profiles.

3. Minimalism at Its Best: A single layer of flavored butter can do what multiple condiments strive to achieve.

So, next time you’re preparing a sandwich or tartine, put down the mayo jar and reach for butter. With these recipes, you’ll never look back. Bon appétit!