Discovering ÓR-Real Irish Butter
Introduction
Butter, a staple in kitchens around the world, is not just a creamy delight that enhances the flavor of your morning toast or a perfect companion to a piping hot baked potato. It is a testament to the age-old art and science of dairy craftsmanship. One brand that has perfected this craft is ÓR-Real Irish Butter, proudly crafted by North Cork Creameries, established in 1928, in the picturesque town of Kanturk, Co. Cork. Let’s delve into the science of butter making and explore the exquisite qualities of ÓR-Real Irish Butter and what makes the taste traditional and natural.
The Butter-Making Process
The journey of butter starts with the careful selection of high-quality, farm-fresh milk. North Cork Creameries takes pride in sourcing their milk from local farmers, from grass-fed cows, ensuring that the base ingredient is of the highest natural quality. The cream is allowed to separate from the milk, and then the art and science of making ÓR-Real Irish Butter truly begins.
1. Separation: Cream is separated from milk through the process of centrifugation, in a machine called a Separator. The denser skim milk fraction is spun to the outer surfaces of the separation cone with the lighter cream fraction gathering to the centre. Each fraction is piped away separately for different uses. The Cream is collected and stored within a specific temperature range to allow for fat crystallisation. This is very improtant for the butter churning process
2. Churning: Churning is the key step in butter making. It involves phase inversion of the fat in water emulsion to a water in fat emulsion, resulting in the fat globules coalescing and forming butter granules. This process breaks the emulsion in the cream, causing the separation of butterfat and buttermilk. It's a delicate balance of time and motion to get the perfect texture.
3. Washing: After churning, the butter granules are washed with cold water to remove any residual buttermilk, ensuring the butter's longevity and freshness.
4. Salting: To enhance flavor and preserve the butter further, a precise amount of salt is added. Ór-Real Irish Butter by North Cork Creameries is known for its just-right saltiness, which enhances its delicious, creamy taste.
5. Packaging: Finally, the creamy butter is packaged in the signature teal green and gold foil wrap that has become synonymous with Ór-Real Irish Butter. This packaging not only preserves the butter but also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
The Science of Taste and Quality
What sets Ór-Real Irish Butter apart is not just its meticulous production process but also the science behind the taste and quality. Grass-fed cows produce cream with a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, resulting in a butter that's not just delicious but also nutritious.
Additionally, time-honored techniques used by our Butter Makers and a commitment to excellence make Ór-Real Irish Butter a true masterpiece. The creameries' skilled Butter Makers understand the importance of temperature, timing, and quality control, ensuring that each batch is consistent and of the highest standard.
Butter Beyond Taste
Ór-Real Irish Butter goes beyond its sumptuous taste. North Cork Creameries, with their unwavering commitment to sustainability and responsible farming practices, contributes to a healthier environment and community. The grass-fed cows are not just a source of high-quality cream but also play a role in promoting biodiversity.
In a world where convenience often trumps quality, Ór-Real Irish Butter stands as a testament to the art and science of butter making. North Cork Creameries' dedication to traditional methods, high-quality cream, and responsible farming practices ensures that each pack of butter is a masterpiece of taste and craftsmanship. Enjoy the rich, creamy flavor of Ór-Real Irish Butter and savor the science and artistry that goes into every golden scoop.