How to Make Smen (Moroccan Preserved Butter) at Home
The butter traditionally used in the production of smen, the Moroccan preserved butter, is unsalted butter. It’s important to use unsalted butter because salt is added later in the preservation process. High-quality, fresh butter is preferred to achieve the best flavor. Some people may also use sheep’s or goat’s butter to create a more intense, authentic flavor, as these are sometimes used in traditional Moroccan methods. The butter is then clarified and aged to develop the unique, pungent taste that distinguishes smen from other clarified butters like ghee.
What Is Smen?
Smen is a type of clarified butter that’s salted and aged, sometimes for months or even years. Over time, it develops a strong, cheesy flavor that enhances various dishes. While you can buy smen at specialty stores, making it at home allows you to control the flavor and quality. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare!
Ingredients for Homemade Smen
To make smen at home, you’ll need only a few basic ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme (optional for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons water
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Smen
1. Clarify the Butter
Start by melting the unsalted butter in a saucepan over low heat. Allow it to simmer gently until the milk solids separate and sink to the bottom of the pan. Skim off any foam that rises to the top. The goal is to have clear, golden butter—this is clarified butter.
2. Strain the Clarified Butter
Once the butter is clarified, carefully pour it through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a bowl or jar. This step removes any remaining milk solids, leaving you with pure, clarified butter.
3. Add Salt and Herbs
Stir in 1 teaspoon of salt to the butter until fully dissolved. Salt helps preserve the butter and also adds flavor. Optionally, you can add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano or thyme, which is traditional in some recipes for a more aromatic smen. However, the herbs are not essential if you prefer a plain version.
4. Store the Butter
Transfer the salted butter to a clean, airtight jar or container. Pour 2 tablespoons of water over the top to help seal the butter from air, which aids in the preservation process. Close the container tightly.
5. Let It Age
Store the container in a cool, dry place for at least a week to allow the flavors to develop. The longer the butter ages, the stronger its flavor becomes. Some people age their smen for several months or even a year to achieve a more robust taste.
6. Use Your Smen
Once your smen has aged, it’s ready to use! Scoop out small amounts to add richness to your Moroccan dishes. It’s commonly used to flavor tagines, stews, couscous, and even spread on bread for a traditional Moroccan breakfast.
Benefits of Making Smen at Home
Authentic Flavor
Homemade smen captures the authentic taste of Moroccan cuisine, adding a deep, rich flavor to any dish. Store-bought versions can’t always match the freshness and quality of homemade.
Simple Ingredients
With just butter, salt, and optional herbs, this recipe uses basic ingredients found in any kitchen. There’s no need for fancy tools or hard-to-find items.
Long Shelf Life
When properly preserved, smen can last for months, even up to a year. This makes it a great ingredient to keep on hand for adding a burst of flavor to various meals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I age smen?
Smen should be aged for at least a week, but it can be stored for several months or more to intensify the flavor. The longer it ages, the stronger and more complex the taste becomes.
Can I make smen without herbs?
Yes! Adding herbs like oregano or thyme is optional. Plain smen is just as delicious and versatile, allowing you to use it in a wider range of dishes.
Where should I store smen?
Store smen in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. You can also refrigerate it if your home is particularly warm, but traditionally, smen is stored in a pantry or cupboard.
Conclusion
Making smen at home is a rewarding way to bring authentic Moroccan flavors into your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a rich, preserved butter that will enhance your favorite dishes. Whether you're making a fragrant tagine or adding depth to couscous, smen is a culinary treasure that’s well worth the wait.