Soups & Stews > Soup & Stew Thickeners > Other Thickeners > Cream and Dairy

Crème Fraîche Swirl Thickener

A simple yet elegant way to thicken and enrich soups and stews. A swirl of crème fraîche adds a subtle tang and luxurious creaminess without dramatically changing the overall flavor profile. Ideal for lighter soups and stews where you want a touch of richness.

Prep Time
2 minutes
Cook Time
None (added at the end)
Servings
Enough to thicken 4-6 servings of soup/stew
Ingredients
  • 1/2 cup Crème fraîche
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon juice
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Preparing the Crème Fraîche

In a small bowl, combine the crème fraîche with the lemon juice, salt, and pepper. The lemon juice helps to thin the crème fraîche slightly and brighten the flavor.

Adding to the Soup or Stew

Once the soup or stew is nearly finished cooking, remove it from the heat. Gently stir in the prepared crème fraîche, swirling it into the soup or stew. Do not boil the soup or stew after adding the crème fraîche, as it may curdle. The heat from the soup or stew will be enough to warm the crème fraîche and thicken it slightly.

Serving

Serve immediately. The swirl of crème fraîche adds a beautiful visual element to the dish.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 280kcal, Protein: 3g, Fat: 30g, Carbohydrates: 5g

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Crème fraîche is high in fat. Use sparingly. Consider using Greek yogurt or a lower-fat sour cream as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.

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FAQ

  • Can I use sour cream instead of crème fraîche?

    Yes, you can substitute sour cream, but the flavor will be tangier and the texture slightly thinner. Greek yogurt is another option, but make sure it's full-fat for the best results and to prevent curdling.
  • Why add lemon juice?

    The lemon juice adds brightness and helps to thin the crème fraîche slightly, making it easier to swirl into the soup or stew. It also prevents the crème fraîche from tasting too heavy.
  • Can I add herbs to the crème fraîche?

    Yes! Chopped fresh herbs like chives, dill, or parsley would be a delicious addition. Add them along with the lemon juice, salt, and pepper.