Spreads – Cooking Chops

Peanut butter is a worldwide favorite! From being a playground favorite and nostalgic snack many have been wondering the same question. Is peanut butter a condiment? A condiment is described as a spread, spice or sauce that is added to dishes before, during, and after cooking in order to enhance the flavor of a desired dish. When we think of the word condiment, the most common ones that come to mind are typically, ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Peanut butter can be considered a condiment simply because it can be applied to various dishes in order to enhance and provide a richer flavor. It’s also important to mention peanut butter is primarily a “spread” due to its thick consistency and smooth texture making it addition on various foods such as toast, celery, apples and more. Peanut butter has been a condiment in various cuisines, dishes, sauces, salad dressings and even smoothies. Some may even eat a spoonful of peanut butter for a quick snack. The most common use that most think of when they hear the words peanut butter is, the famous peanut butter and jelly sandwich. This popular childhood snack has been around for decades and still remains a staple for children and adults alike in many cultures. Other dishes that use peanuts or peanut butter include; Pad Thai with peanut sauce, Peanut Butter Chicken Curry, and simple salads made with homemade peanut dressing. What Is Peanut Butter Classified As? Did you know that peanut butter has recently been classified as a “super food”? This is due to its essential nutrients, including Vitamin E, Niacin, Folate, as well as Protein. For example, 2 Tablespoons of peanut butter contains 8 grams of protein! Not only is peanut butter a healthy spreadable condiment with various nutritional benefits, it’s also a great vegan alternative to traditional meat proteins. Most brands of peanut butter on the market contain a simple combination of peanuts, oil, salt, and sometimes other additives, which is still considered vegan. However, some brands may contain honey as an ingredient. In these cases it is classified as non-Vegan. If you are concerned about any ingredients within the peanut butter you are purchasing, refer to the ingredient list on the nutritional label located on the back of the product in order to determine if the product you’ve chosen is vegan. Spreadable Peanut Butter vs Regular There are also a few different styles of peanut butter. Spreadable and non-spreadable. Spreadable styles do not contain a layer of oil at the top of the jar and non-spreadable peanut butter does. This difference does not take away from the fact that they are both considered condiments and spreads. The only difference between the two is the way they were manufactured. Ultimately, peanut butter is a very healthy and versatile spreadable condiment that is used in a myriad of dishes enjoyable by many cuisines to enhance the flavor profile of the dish you will be enjoying! Below is a recipe for a delicious peanut butter dressing that can be used with a simple salad, served on top of rice, salmon or anything else you desire. This always adds a nice creamy rich texture to your dish! Is Butter Considered A Condiment? Butter is not typically considered a condiment as much as salt, ketchup or mustard may be. A condiment is usually added to food that has already been cooked or prepared. More often butter is used in the cooking process as an ingredient. Melted butter on the other hand can be considered a condiment. Melted butter is often used for popcorn, steak, vegetables and even seafood. How Peanut Butter Is Similar To A Condiment Peanut butter can be found alongside packets of plain butter, jelly or ketchup. Typically in a hotel breakfast buffet. This form of peanut butter is usually packaged into round plastic cups. I was surprised at first when I found out that some people put peanut butter on pancakes. You can use this peanut butter for bagels, toast, crackers or dipping. Packets of jelly are usually stored together alongside this peanut butter. So although peanut butter may not be considered a true condiment. You may find it alongside other seasoning and spreadable toppings. The great thing about single serve trays or packets is the convenience. Since you don't have to refrigerate it and worry about spoiling. Interesting Uses For Peanut Butter I want to find out what unusual ways to use peanut butter that actually sound good. The first unique one was using it for a topping on hamburgers. I don't know? this might be pretty good. The next one is pancakes or waffles, typically toasted with the peanut butter spread on top. I think this is worth trying. Not as unusual as the others is a peanut butter chicken or Thai peanut chicken. There are many recipes for this dish online. I've never had this myself but I would be willing to try.