Cooking Tips > Food Definitions and Clarifications > Cuisine Clarifications > What is crème fraîche?

What is crème fraîche?

Crème fraîche is a rich, slightly tangy cultured cream that's a staple in many kitchens, especially in French cuisine. It translates to 'fresh cream' but don't let the name fool you; it's more than just regular cream. This guide will delve into what crème fraîche is, how it's made, its culinary uses, and suitable alternatives.

Understanding Crème Fraîche

Crème fraîche is a thick, velvety cream with a subtle tang, created by the natural fermentation of cream. The key difference between crème fraîche and sour cream or regular cream is its higher fat content and lower acidity. This makes it more stable at high temperatures, preventing it from curdling when heated. It also has a richer, smoother texture.

How Crème Fraîche is Made

Traditionally, crème fraîche is made by allowing unpasteurized cream to sit at room temperature for a period of time, allowing naturally occurring bacteria to culture and thicken the cream. However, most commercially available crème fraîche is made by adding a starter culture (similar to yogurt or buttermilk cultures) to pasteurized cream. The culture ferments the lactose in the cream, producing lactic acid, which thickens and slightly sours the cream.

Culinary Uses of Crème Fraîche

Crème fraîche is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Its mild flavor and heat stability make it ideal for both sweet and savory dishes.

Savory Applications:

  • Sauces: Adds richness and body to sauces without curdling.
  • Soups: A dollop of crème fraîche can finish a soup beautifully, adding a touch of elegance and flavor.
  • Toppings: Excellent on baked potatoes, tacos, or as a garnish for grilled vegetables.
  • Dips: Forms a creamy base for dips, perfect for vegetables or chips.
  • Stews & Braises: Can be stirred into stews or braises towards the end of cooking to add richness.

Sweet Applications:

  • Desserts: A lovely accompaniment to fresh fruit, cakes, or pies.
  • Ice Cream & Frozen Desserts: Can be used in ice cream recipes to create a smoother, richer texture.
  • Toppings: Top waffles, pancakes, or scones.

Crème Fraîche vs. Sour Cream

While both are cultured dairy products, crème fraîche and sour cream differ significantly. Crème fraîche has a higher fat content (typically 30% or more) and a milder, less acidic flavor than sour cream (typically around 20% fat). Sour cream is also more prone to curdling when heated, making crème fraîche a better choice for cooking at high temperatures. Sour cream often contains stabilizers like gelatin, which are absent in crème fraîche.

Substitutes for Crème Fraîche

If you can't find crème fraîche, here are some suitable substitutes:

  • Mexican Crema: A good substitute, with a similar texture and flavor, though it might be slightly thinner.
  • Sour Cream (with caution): Can be used in some recipes, but be mindful of the lower fat content and potential for curdling. Consider stirring in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream to help stabilize it.
  • Greek Yogurt (full-fat): While not a perfect substitute, full-fat Greek yogurt can offer a similar tang and creamy texture, especially in cold applications.
  • Homemade Crème Fraîche: You can easily make your own by combining heavy cream with buttermilk or yogurt culture and allowing it to sit at room temperature until thickened.

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FAQ

  • Can I use crème fraîche in hot dishes?

    Yes, crème fraîche is quite heat-stable and is excellent for sauces and soups as it is much less likely to curdle than sour cream due to its higher fat content.

  • How long does crème fraîche last?

    Once opened, crème fraîche typically lasts for about 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator. Always check the expiration date on the container and look for any signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor.

  • Can I freeze crème fraîche?

    Freezing crème fraîche is not recommended, as it can change the texture and become grainy upon thawing. It's best to use it fresh.

  • Is crème fraîche gluten-free?

    Yes, crème fraîche is naturally gluten-free.

  • Where can I buy crème fraîche?

    Crème fraîche can be found in most well-stocked grocery stores, usually in the dairy section near the sour cream and yogurt. Specialty cheese shops and gourmet food stores are also good places to look.