Café de Paris butter was created in the 1930s in Geneva and made famous there in the early ‘40s at the Café de Paris, where it’s still served today. Although it appears on many menus, the original Café de Paris recipe is secret so everyone has their own variation. If it strays too far from the original flavour profile, however, it’s better called a beurre Maître d’Hôtel than beurre Café de Paris. My father-in-law worked at the Hotel Savoy in London in the 1940s with a chef who had worked at Café de Paris, and his recipe has been passed down to our family and appears in several cookbooks. My version is a little simpler than his, using ingredients that should be in your pantry or easy to come by. It stays true enough to the original that I believe it still deserves to be called a Café de Paris butter. My beurre Café de Paris certainly takes a simple steak, piece of chicken, or grilled seafood from good to great. This recipe gives enough Café de Paris butter for 12 or so serves, but it’s easier to make in this quantity and freezes well to use for quick delicious meals anytime.

Serves 12

Ingredients
  • 250g salted butter, diced and softened (9oz)
  • 2 golden shallots, finely chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, crushed
  • 5 anchovy fillets
  • 2 teaspoons capers in brine, rinsed and dried (about 6g/⅕oz)
  • ¼ cup finely chopped curly parsley
  • 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped chives
  • 1 tablespoon brandy (20ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (5ml)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup (20ml)
  • 1 lemon, zest finely grated
  • 2 tablespoons strained lemon juice (40ml)
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon salt flakes, crushed
  • ½ teaspoon Keen’s curry powder
  • ¼ teaspoon sweet paprika
  • A good grind of white pepper
Method
  1. Place all ingredients in a small food processor and pulse to combine well.
  2. Spoon butter horizontally down the centre of a long strip of baking paper, fold the paper over and use a ruler to press against the side, pushing the butter into a long log about 5cm (2″) in diameter.
  3. Roll up in the paper and twist the ends to secure.
  4. Refrigerate or freeze until needed.

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Janet (Tamworth, NSW, Aus.)
Janet (Tamworth, NSW, Aus.)
Just back from the most amazing trip to Emilia-Romagna with Roberta. Not only the home of Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano-Reggiano & Balsamic Vinegar, but scenery to die for and more quaint and exciting restaurants and cafés than you ever imagined. And Roberta is just the person to help you discover and enjoy them! Her knowledge of the history of the region and its wonderful cuisine know no bounds and all added to the excitement of the trip. It was faultless - well organized and lots of fun!
Deb (Belconnen, ACT, Aus.)
Deb (Belconnen, ACT, Aus.)
Wow, what a tour – I learned so much! Awesome fun traveling through Emilia-Romagna experiencing first hand some of the produce I've worked with over the last couple of years cooking with Roberta's recipe kits – the family are reaping the benefits now. If you're thinking of joining Roberta in future years get ready for an amazing experience.
Mark (Elizabeth Bay, NSW, Aus.)
Mark (Elizabeth Bay, NSW, Aus.)
My wife and I recently joined Roberta's Emilia-Romagna tour. We enjoyed all the temptations offered and learned a lot about that part of Italy, especially its food and wine culture. What was most impressive was Roberta's local knowledge of people and places. The planning and effort she put into making the whole experience seem effortless was remarkable.
Karen (Bowral, NSW, Aus.)
Karen (Bowral, NSW, Aus.)
Our tour with Roberta through Emilia-Romagna was the highlight of the year. Good company, gorgeous palazzi and great food. What more could one ask for? Roberta's enthusiasm and knowledge made this a once in a lifetime experience through an extraordinary, diverse and very special region.
Shelley (Auckland, NZ)
Shelley (Auckland, NZ)
Roberta’s passion for Italy shone throughout an unforgettable food and wine tour. She introduced us to family-owned artisanal producers, where we experienced everything from attic-aged balsamic to small-batch wines, Parma ham and Parmigiano-Reggiano. The local guides were equally passionate, and the excellent transport and accommodation made the trip effortless. This tour captured the region’s traditions, flavours and people, and thanks to Roberta’s deep knowledge we left with wonderful memories. A truly authentic culinary adventure — highly recommended.

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