Dairy | Ketogenic Diet (high-fat)

Sour Cream

Lactobacillus spp. (fermentation) Allergens: Milk|Lactose
Sour Cream

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family N/A (dairy)
  • Primary Cuisine Eastern European|North American
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cream (milk)

The Forktionary Angle

"The unsung hero of creamy texture: sour cream adds depth and tang, balancing richness in both savory and sweet dishes."

Definition

A cultured dairy product made by fermenting cream with lactic acid bacteria, known for its tangy flavor and thick texture.

Sensory Profile

TasteTangy, Creamy, Slightly Sour
TextureThick, Smooth, Creamy, Viscous
AromaButtery, Fermented, Lactic
AcidityMedium

Technical Metrics

Global Market Size

Over $5 Billion Annually

Milkfat Content

Typically 18-20%

Shelf Life (Opened, Refrigerated)

7-14 Days

Nutrition Facts

Per 2 tbsp
Calories198 kcal
Total Fat19.3 g
Saturated Fat11.8 g
Trans Fat0.6 g
Cholesterol59 mg
Protein2.7 g
Total Carbohydrate4.6 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars3.3 g
Calcium100 mg
Iron0 mg
Potassium150 mg

Chef’s Secret

To prevent sour cream from curdling in hot sauces or soups, temper it by slowly whisking in some hot liquid before adding it to the main dish.

Substitutions

Best Match

Greek Yogurt (plain, full-fat)

1:1

Excellent for tang and texture, especially in dips or as a topping.

Crème Fraîche

1:1

Similar rich, tangy flavor, higher fat content, and less prone to curdling when heated.

Buttermilk + Butter (melted)

3/4 cup buttermilk + 1/4 cup melted butter

For baking, mimics the fat and acidity; adjust thickness for sauces.

Cashew Cream (dairy-free)

1:1

A vegan alternative, provides creaminess and can be acidified for tang.

Buying Guide

Look for full-fat for best flavor and texture. Light or reduced-fat versions may have stabilizers and alter performance in baking.

Flavor Pairings

Baked Potatoes Tacos Chili Soups Dips Cheesecakes Stroganoff

Recipes Using Sour Cream

Condiments Etc Condiments Etc Finger Food Presentation

10 Minute Mustard Dip

Ready in just 10 minutes, this vibrant mustard dip explodes with tangy, sweet, and spicy flavors! Perfect for dipping pretzels, or use it as a zesty sauce for pork or chicken. This crowd-pleasing recipe, originally featured in a local newspaper, is incredibly versatile and sure to become a new favorite.

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Vegetables Preparation Breads Served Hot

3 Corn Casserole Bread

This unbelievably delicious 3-Corn Casserole Bread is the perfect side dish for any meal, especially hearty goulash! The creamy texture, combined with the sweetness of three types of corn and a crispy golden-brown top, will have everyone asking for seconds. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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Appetizers Dietary Appetizers Course

7 Layer Dip

This crowd-pleasing 7-Layer Dip is the ultimate game-day snack or party appetizer! Layers of creamy sour cream, zesty salsa, savory beans, and fresh toppings disappear in minutes. Easy to make ahead, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

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Dietary Taste Mood American Comfort Food

Absolutely The Best New York Cheesecake Gluten Free

Indulge in the creamy perfection of our Absolutely The Best Gluten-Free New York Cheesecake! This isn't just any cheesecake; it's a meticulously crafted masterpiece, perfected over countless hours to deliver an unparalleled taste sensation. Forget 'NY-style' – this is the *real* deal, a luxurious dessert so rich and decadent, you'll want to savor every bite with a spoon. Our detailed, step-by-step instructions guarantee a flawlessly smooth texture and intensely satisfying flavor that will leave you speechless. Prepare to be amazed!

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30 Minutes Or Less For 1 Or 2 30 Minutes Or Less Lunch

All American Steak Sandwich

Juicy steak, crispy potatoes, and tender-crisp veggies all come together in this incredible one-pan steak sandwich! No more messy cleanup – just pure flavor in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. #OnePanWonder #SteakSandwich #EasyRecipe #QuickDinner #AmericanCuisine

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Desserts Food Processor Blender Crusts Pastry Dough 2 Equipment

All Butter Pie Crust Pastry

This all-butter pie crust recipe creates a flawlessly flaky crust that stays crispy, even under the soggiest fillings! Our foolproof method ensures tender, delicious results every time. Perfect for pies, tarts, and more!

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Pasta Vegetarian Potluck Course

Almond Crowned Kugel

Indulge in this rich and rewarding Almond-Crowned Kugel, a family heirloom recipe passed down through generations. This incredibly delicious noodle pudding is perfect for special occasions – its creamy texture and crunchy almond topping create a symphony of flavors that's hard to resist. A true taste of tradition, but save it for special moments as it's incredibly rich and satisfying! You've been warned (but you'll thank us later!).

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Fruit Brunch Peaches European

Amaretto Brunch Omelet

Indulge in a luxurious and romantic breakfast with this Amaretto Brunch Omelet! This delightful recipe, inspired by Disaronno, combines the rich flavor of amaretto with fluffy eggs and sweet fruit for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend treat, this omelet is easier to make than you think. Get ready to impress!

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European Low In Something Poultry Preparation

Amazing Hungarian Chicken Paprikash With Dumplings

Taste the tradition! This Hungarian Chicken Paprikash recipe has been perfected over generations in my family. We've swapped bone-in for boneless chicken for easier prep, but kept ALL the authentic flavor. Get ready for tender chicken simmered in a rich, creamy paprika sauce, topped with fluffy dumplings. A comforting classic, perfect for a cozy night in!

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Preparation Time To Make Cauliflower Main Ingredient

Amish Broccoli Salad

Craveable Amish Broccoli Salad recipe! This creamy, dreamy salad is bursting with fresh broccoli and cauliflower, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. A simple yet irresistible side dish perfect for potlucks, barbecues, or a weeknight dinner.

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Comfort Food European Preparation Main Ingredient

Anna Maria's Rouladen Rachael Ray

Craving a comforting, flavorful dinner? This Anna Maria's Speedy Rouladen recipe, inspired by Rachael Ray's family classic, is a quick and easy weeknight winner! Tender beef rolls are filled with crispy bacon, tangy pickles, and herbs, then simmered in a rich mushroom gravy. Skip the dumplings and enjoy this elevated version with sauteed mushrooms directly in the sauce for an extra layer of umami flavor. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in!

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Desserts Low Sodium Rice Oven

Apple Rice Pudding

Indulge in this creamy, comforting Apple Rice Pudding recipe, a classic dessert made easy! This simple yet elegant recipe from Riceland perfectly blends sweet apples and fluffy rice for a delightful treat that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to impress with this warm, spiced pudding in just under an hour!

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Course Main Ingredient Time To Make For Large Groups

Apple Sour Cream Kuchen

This Apple Sour Cream Kuchen recipe, inspired by Ann Byrn (The Cake Mix Doctor), is a family and church bake sale favorite! Choose your preferred texture: moist and gooey or firm and sheet-cake style. Using a cake mix makes this surprisingly quick to assemble, despite the slightly time-consuming apple slicing. Get ready for rave reviews – this cake is irresistible warm or cool!

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4 Hours Or Less Main Ingredient Occasion Copycat

Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken Copycat Recipe

Recreate the irresistible taste of Applebee's Fiesta Lime Chicken at home! This copycat recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken breasts marinated in a zesty lime dressing, grilled to perfection, and topped with melted cheese. Serve over crunchy tortilla chips for a restaurant-quality meal that's surprisingly easy to make. Get ready for a fiesta in your kitchen!

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Easy Side Dishes 5 Ingredients Or Less 60 Minutes Or Less

Aunt Bev's Hominy

Elevate your chili game with Aunt Bev's secret recipe! This creamy, cheesy hominy bake is the perfect topping for a hearty bowl of chili. Simple to make and bursting with flavor, it's a crowd-pleaser you won't want to miss. Get ready for a taste sensation!

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Low In Something Main Ingredient Salads Cuisine

Authentic Polish Cucumber Salad Mizeria

Escape the heat with this incredibly refreshing Polish cucumber salad, Mizeria! This easy recipe is surprisingly light, unlike many rich Polish dishes. Perfect as a side dish for summer barbecues or a light lunch, this vibrant salad is bursting with fresh cucumber, dill, and a tangy dressing. Easily adaptable with lemon juice and dried dill substitutions for ultimate convenience. Get ready for a taste of Poland without the guilt!

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30 Minutes Or Less Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Cheese

Avocado Quesadillas

Craveable Central Market-Style Avocado Quesadillas! This recipe elevates the classic quesadilla with a vibrant avocado mixture and a creamy cilantro-lime sour cream. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun appetizer.

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Main Ingredient Easy Appetizers Salads

Avocado Ranch Dip

This addictive Avocado Ranch Dip is unbelievably creamy and flavorful! Perfect for dipping chips, veggies (like carrots!), or as a vibrant salad dressing. Made with fresh avocado, zesty lime, and a hint of cilantro, this recipe is ready in minutes and will be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. Get ready for flavor explosion!

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