Garlic and Herb Butter

There is something about grinding fresh herbs by hand that no food processor can replicate. The oils release differently. The smell fills the whole kitchen. Make this once and you will never buy herb butter again.

Ingredients

• 1 stick unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon coarse salt
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon fresh chives
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Place garlic and salt in your mortar and grind into a smooth paste.
2. Add the parsley, thyme, and chives and grind until fully broken down and fragrant.
3. Add the lemon zest and a pinch of black pepper, grind to combine.
4. Transfer the herb paste to a bowl with the softened butter.
5. Mix thoroughly until fully combined.
6. Roll in parchment paper into a log shape and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Serve with: grilled steak, roasted corn, warm bread, or melted over salmon.