Unsalted Butter

Unsalted butter is a dairy product made from churning fresh cream, resulting in a smooth, rich texture without added salt. It offers a pure buttery flavor, making it ideal for recipes where you control the salt content.

Notes

Unsalted butter is preferred in baking and cooking to manage the exact amount of salt in a recipe. It should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a few weeks for optimal freshness.

Uses

Baking cookies and pastries
Sautéing vegetables
Making roux for sauces
Spreading on warm bread
Creaming with sugar for cakes
Flavoring popcorn

Replacements

Salt-free margarine
Coconut oil (for a dairy-free option)
Vegetable shortening (for baking)
Olive oil (for sautéing)
Ghee (for a nutty flavor)

Malt Vinegar

Malt vinegar is a type of vinegar made from malted barley, offering a rich, slightly sweet, and tangy flavor. It's a staple in British cuisine, known for its distinctive taste and versatility.

Canned Lentils

Canned lentils are a convenient and nutritious legume that come pre-cooked and ready to use. Originating from the Near East, lentils have been a staple in human diets for thousands of years, particularly in Mediterranean and Indian cuisines. They possess an earthy, slightly nutty flavor with a soft yet slightly firm texture that holds up well in cooking. Lentils absorb the flavors of the dishes they are added to, making them versatile in a variety of recipes. In cooking, they behave predictably, maintaining their shape without disintegrating, and they can add body and protein to soups, stews, and salads without needing pre-soaking or lengthy cooking times.

Recipes to try

Roasted Cauliflower and Garlic Soup with Parmesan

This velvety soup is a symphony of roasted cauliflower and garlic, kissed with nutty Parmesan for a cozy, crave-worthy bowl.

Lemon Raspberry Cheesecake Parfaits

Creamy layers of lemon cheesecake meet tangy raspberry swirls in a delightful parfait that's as pretty as it is delicious.