In the realm of culinary delights, sometimes the most unassuming sauces can elevate a dish to extraordinary heights. Amidst the realm of condiments, there exists a humble yet extraordinary elixir- the Cilantro Lime Crema, a delicate balance of freshness and richness. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere flick of the wrist, this sauce can rescue even the most lacklustre meal.
Picture this: a zesty concoction marrying the vibrant essence of cilantro with the invigorating tang of sour cream and lime. This divine fusion isn’t just a sauce; it’s a revelation. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, it effortlessly complements an array of dishes, becoming the unsung hero of the kitchen. Its light, refreshing essence make it a versatile companion to wraps, tacos, veggies, meat or fish. This sauce brings newfound life to humble sandwiches and eggs alike. Drizzle it over a salad,, dunk your chips in it or lavish it over grilled fish for an instant flavour upgrade.
In the realm of Tex Mex delights, this Cilantro Lime Crema reigns supreme. Forget the mundane sour cream; this tangy delight steals spotlight with its complexity. Lime juice lends its zesty brightness, while cilantro adds a refreshing twist. And fear not, for the preparation of this creamy Cilantro crema is but a breeze. With just a handful of ingredients and a mere flicker of time, this sauce emerges, ready to dazzle palates and rescue meals from mediocrity.
Why you’ll love the recipe?
Quick and effortless, it comes together in mere minutes, requiring only food processor and a handful of simple steps.
The recipe’s convenience is undeniable, offering the flexibility to prepare ahead and refrigerate without compromising quality.
Its scalability ensures suitability for any occasion, large or intimate.
This sauce harnesses the vibrant essence of freshly picked summer herb, whether from your own garden or the local farmers’ market.
Unlike its commercial counterparts, which often compromise on freshness, this homemade rendition maintains the integrity of cilantro’s bright essence.
Moreover, its versatility extends beyond flavour profiles. Catering to various dietary needs, it proudly stands as a vegetarian and gluten-free and keto-friendly option.
What is Crema?
Crema, a staple in Mexican cuisine, is a cultured heavy cream with a rich, sour flavour akin to French creme fraiche. Unlike sour cream, it boasts a slightly thinner texture, making it perfect for drizzling over tacos, enchiladas or any dish in need of a creamy, tangy kick. While traditional crema is crafted from heavy cream and buttermilk, for homemade version I have used sour cream for a zesty twist. Although this zesty twist may deviate from authenticity, it produces a tantalizingly creamy sauce.
Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Crema:
Sour Cream: Sour Cream lends a creamy texture and tangy undertone, the fat in sour cream helps smooth out the sauce. You can also substitute Greek yogurt.
Cilantro: Cilantro, the star of the show, infuses a fresh, herbaceous essence and burst of flavour, particularly when using tender stems that hold a wealth of flavour.
Garlic: Balancing this verdant powerhouse is garlic, where moderation is key to prevent overpowering the sauce’s delicate nuances.
Lime juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice is paramount, imparts a zesty kick, elevating the sauce with its vibrant citrus essence.
Lime peel: Lime peel adds a bright, citrusy and extra tangy flavour to the crema.
Serving suggestion:
This versatile Crema offers a spectrum of serving suggestions:
Elevate salads as a zesty dressing.
Enhance tacos, quesadillas and burritos with a tantalizing drizzle.
Pair with burgers or sandwiches for an extra kick.
Complement grilled meats or fish with a flavourful flourish.
Transform roast potatoes or chicken into gourmet delights.
Delight in it as a dipping sauce for fries or veggies.
Integrate into burgers, sandwiches, wraps or salads for added zest.
Storage Tips:
Store the Cilantro Lime Crema in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Avoid freezing it for optimal taste.
Ingredients
1 cup Sour cream or Mexican Crema or Greek Yogurt
1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, roughly chopped
Zest or peel of 1 Lime
1 tbsp Lime juice
1 No. Garlic clove
1/2 tsp fine Sea Salt
Preparation
- Step 1: Use a sharp knife to remove the green peel of a lime in thin strips, leave the white pith behind.
- Step 2: In a food processor or blender , place the sour cream, lime juice, garlic, lime peel or zest, cilantro and salt. Blend until mostly smooth but green flecks are still visible.
- Step 3: Transfer to a small container and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Pro tips:
Opt for fresh ingredients to elevate the taste.
Cilantro reigns supreme in this sauce, but if cilantro isn’t your thing, parsley or basil can serve as alternatives.
Don’t discard the tender cilantro stems, they pack a punch of flavour.
Ensure your cilantro is fresh and vibrant, wilted or yellowing leaves won’t deliver optimal results.
To adjust the consistency, consider adding a touch of water to thin the sauce.
About Me
DEBJANI MONDAL
Welcome to Kitchenstagram, the home of delicious recipes, culinary inspiration and cooking adventures. I’m Debjani and I’m thrilled to be your guide through the wonderful world of food. I’m a self-taught professional baker, home chef, recipe developer, author of Kitchenstagram and an aspiring YouTuber.
My passion for food and cooking began at a very young age, when I would watch my mom and dad cook for me and my brother. My dad, in particular is a great cook whose culinary skills made a lasting impression on me. My dad would cook up a storm on special occasions by cooking variety of dishes, from delicious biriyani to samosa, fish fry, rasgullas and kachoris (sweet & spicy deep fried pastry with filling of lentils, meat or fish…>>>>>
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