This Is The Weirder Than Weird University Butter

Uni butter, also known as sea urchin butter, is a luxurious culinary creation that captures the rich, buttery flavor of uni (sea urchin roe). It is a unique and versatile ingredient that adds a touch of the sea to various dishes, from sushi and pasta to sauces and dips.

Ingredients and Preparation

Uni butter is made by blending fresh uni with butter, usually unsalted. The uni provides a deep, briny flavor, while the butter adds richness and creaminess. Some variations may include additional ingredients such as lemon juice, shallots, or herbs for added complexity.

Flavor Profile

Uni butter possesses a distinctive flavor that is both briny and buttery. The uni’s unique umami flavor shines through, creating a complex and satisfying taste experience. It is often described as having a slightly sweet and salty balance, with a hint of the ocean’s freshness.

Culinary Applications

Uni butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of culinary applications:

• Sushi and Sashimi: Uni butter is a classic topping for sushi and sashimi, enhancing the delicate flavors of raw fish.
• Pasta: Uni butter can be used as a sauce for pasta, creating a rich and flavorful dish with a touch of the sea.
• Sauces: Uni butter can be added to sauces and dips to add depth and umami flavor. It pairs particularly well with seafood-based sauces.
• Dips: Uni butter can be used as a dip for crackers, bread, or vegetables.
• Toppings: Uni butter can be used as a topping for grilled or roasted meats, seafood, and vegetables.

Nutritional Value

Uni butter is a nutrient-rich food that contains:

• Protein: Uni is a good source of protein, providing essential amino acids.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Uni butter is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart and brain health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Uni butter contains vitamins A, B12, and C, as well as minerals such as iron, zinc, and potassium.

How to Make Uni Butter at Home

Making uni butter at home is a relatively simple process:

1. Gather your ingredients: Fresh uni, unsalted butter, and any additional ingredients you desire.
2. Clean the uni: Remove the uni from its shell and rinse it thoroughly with cold water.
3. Blend the ingredients: Place the uni, butter, and any additional ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth and creamy.
4. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the uni butter and adjust the seasoning as desired. You may want to add more butter for richness or lemon juice for acidity.
5. Chill: Refrigerate the uni butter for at least 30 minutes before using to allow the flavors to meld.

Tips for Using Uni Butter

• Use fresh uni: Fresh uni will provide the best flavor for your uni butter.
• Don’t overcook: Uni butter should be used sparingly and not overcooked, as this can diminish its delicate flavor.
• Pair with seafood: Uni butter pairs particularly well with seafood dishes, such as sushi, sashimi, or grilled fish.
• Experiment: Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to create your own unique uni butter variations.

What People Want to Know

Q: What is the difference between uni butter and regular butter?
A: Uni butter is made with uni (sea urchin roe), which gives it a distinctive briny and buttery flavor. Regular butter is made from cream and has a more neutral flavor.

Q: Can I freeze uni butter?
A: Yes, you can freeze uni butter for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.

Q: Is uni butter safe to eat raw?
A: It is not recommended to eat uni butter raw, as it may contain bacteria. Cooking it thoroughly will ensure its safety.