Mexican Crema
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Additional Time
1 d
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Total Time
1 d 5 mins
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Servings
8 servings
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Calories
105 kcal
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Course
Condiments
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Cuisine
Mexican
Mexican Crema
Description
This Mexican Crema recipe combines heavy cream and buttermilk, which ferment gently at room temperature to develop a mildly tangy, creamy base. After 12 to 24 hours, lime juice and salt are stirred in to add acidity and seasoning, balancing the richness of the cream. The slow fermentation and acid addition create a smooth texture and subtle tartness typical of crema used in Mexican cuisine.
The crema's texture can thicken further with refrigeration, and thinning can be accomplished by whisking in additional lime juice or buttermilk. It can also be modified by adding chili, chipotle, or cayenne powder for a spicy variation, diversifying its uses in dishes. It's versatile for garnishing tacos, soups, or grilled foods where a fresh creamy element is desired.
For best results, rest the cream mixture at a consistent warm temperature and cover tightly to avoid contamination. This crema keeps well refrigerated for up to two weeks, allowing preparation ahead of time for cooking sessions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
- ⅛ teaspoon salt plus more to taste, fine
Instructions
- Add the heavy cream and buttermilk to a small bowl or glass jar. Stir together to combine.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and let sit in a warm spot for 12 to 24 hours*.
- Add the lime juice and salt. Mix until well combined.
- Serve immediately or cover and store in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
- Allow the cream and buttermilk mixture to rest at room temperature for 12 hours to develop tanginess before adding lime and salt.
- The crema thickens in the refrigerator and can be thinned by whisking in lime juice or buttermilk as needed before serving.
- To add heat, mix in chili powder, chipotle powder, or cayenne pepper when seasoning the crema.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 105 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1serving | |
| Calories | 105kcal | 5% |
| Carbohydrates | 1g | 0% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Fat | 11g | 17% |
| Saturated Fat | 7g | 35% |
| Cholesterol | 41mg | 14% |
| Sodium | 52mg | 2% |
| Potassium | 27mg | 1% |
| Sugar | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 437IU | 9% |
| Vitamin C | 1mg | 1% |
| Calcium | 24mg | 2% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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