What are the ingredients in Moroccan style aged butter?

Moroccan style aged butter, known as "smen" (pronounced "smen"), is a unique and flavorful butter that involves a specific process of churning and aging. Here are the ingredients and the process:

Ingredients:

* Fresh, high-quality butter: The best smen is made with fresh, unsalted butter, typically from sheep or goat milk, although cow milk can be used.

Process:

1. Churning: The butter is churned vigorously to remove excess water and buttermilk.

2. Salting (optional): Some recipes call for adding a small amount of salt during this stage.

3. Aging: The butter is then placed in a sealed container, traditionally a clay pot, and stored in a warm, dry place for several weeks or months. During this aging process, the butter undergoes a natural chemical transformation. The fat molecules break down, and the butter develops a deep, nutty flavor with a slight tang. The longer it ages, the stronger the flavor becomes.

Flavor and Texture:

* Flavor: Smen has a rich, complex flavor that is both nutty and savory, with notes of caramel, hazelnut, and cheese.

* Texture: Aged butter can range in consistency from soft and spreadable to firm and crumbly, depending on the aging time.

Uses:

Smen is a staple ingredient in Moroccan cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes, including:

* Tagines: The rich, nutty flavor of smen adds depth to slow-cooked tagines.

* Bread: Smen is often used to spread on bread, especially with dates or honey.

* Salads: A small amount of smen can add a distinctive flavor to salads.

* Sauces and stews: It can be added to sauces and stews to enhance their richness and flavor.

Note: While smen is a traditional ingredient, it is becoming more popular in other cuisines due to its unique flavor and culinary versatility. You can find it at some specialty food stores or online.