Forktionary

Crema

N/A Dairy/Condiment

Crema Dairy/Condiment

At a Glance

  • Category Dairy/Condiment

The Forktionary Angle

"Crema is not just a garnish; it's a crucial balancer, providing a luxurious, cooling counterpoint to the vibrant heat of Mexican flavors."

Definition

A Mexican dairy product similar to sour cream but thinner in consistency and less tangy, offering a rich, cooling, and slightly sweet counterpoint to spicy dishes.

Fat Content (Avg.) 20-30%
Fermentation Process Lactic acid bacteria
Primary Usage Mexican Cuisine

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Crema are:

Rich creamy slightly tangy mild cooling

Chef’s Secret

For a quick homemade crema, whisk together 1 cup heavy cream with 1 tbsp buttermilk or lime juice, let sit at room temp for an hour, then refrigerate until thickened.

Best Substitutes

Sour cream thinned with milk

Ratio 1:1

Crème fraîche

- tangier
Ratio 1:1

Greek yogurt thinned with milk

- more tangy
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Found in Hispanic grocery stores or the dairy aisle of larger supermarkets. Look for "Crema Mexicana."

Culinary Pairings

Tacos enchiladas burritos chiles rellenos sopes flautas soups desserts (in some contexts)

Recipes Using Crema

Authentic Mexican Flan image
Course Cuisine 4 Hours Or Less Easy

Authentic Mexican Flan

Discover the secret to a truly authentic Mexican flan, a recipe passed down through four generations in Durango, Mexico! Unlike many modern variations, this recipe skips the cream cheese for a richer, more traditional flavor that will transport you straight to Mexico. My mother-in-law's time-honored recipe is finally revealed, promising a taste of heavenly, creamy perfection. Get ready for a culinary experience that's utterly divine!

See Complete Recipe