Mexican table cream, also known as crema Mexicana, is a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine. This rich and creamy condiment is made from a mixture of cream, milk, and a touch of lime juice or vinegar, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. In this article, we will explore the various ways to use Mexican table cream, from traditional dishes to modern twists and creative applications.
Understanding Mexican Table Cream
Before we dive into the uses of Mexican table cream, let’s take a closer look at what makes it so special. Unlike regular sour cream or heavy cream, Mexican table cream has a thinner consistency and a more delicate flavor. This is due to the addition of lime juice or vinegar, which helps to break down the casein in the milk and creates a smoother texture.
The Flavor Profile of Mexican Table Cream
Mexican table cream has a mild, slightly tangy flavor that is both rich and refreshing. It’s a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from savory to sweet. The flavor profile of Mexican table cream is often described as:
- Mildly tangy, with a hint of acidity
- Rich and creamy, with a smooth texture
- Slightly sweet, with a subtle flavor of milk and cream
Types of Mexican Table Cream
There are several types of Mexican table cream available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses. Some of the most common types include:
- Crema Mexicana: This is the most traditional type of Mexican table cream, made with a mixture of cream, milk, and lime juice or vinegar.
- Crema para Cocinar: This type of Mexican table cream is specifically designed for cooking and has a thicker consistency than regular crema Mexicana.
- Crema para Ensaladas: This type of Mexican table cream is designed for use in salads and has a lighter consistency and a more delicate flavor.
Cooking with Mexican Table Cream
Mexican table cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from traditional Mexican recipes to modern twists and creative applications. Here are some ways to use Mexican table cream in your cooking:
Traditional Mexican Dishes
Mexican table cream is a staple ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes, including:
- Tacos: Use Mexican table cream as a topping for tacos, along with salsa, avocado, and sour cream.
- Enchiladas: Add a dollop of Mexican table cream to your enchiladas for a rich and creamy sauce.
- Chiles Rellenos: Use Mexican table cream to make a creamy sauce for stuffed peppers.
- Sopes: Top your sopes with a dollop of Mexican table cream, along with refried beans and shredded chicken.
Modern Twists and Creative Applications
Mexican table cream can also be used in a variety of modern twists and creative applications, including:
- Soups: Add a dollop of Mexican table cream to your soups for a rich and creamy texture.
- Salads: Use Mexican table cream as a dressing for salads, along with a squeeze of lime juice and a sprinkle of queso fresco.
- Grilled Meats: Top your grilled meats with a dollop of Mexican table cream, along with a sprinkle of cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Vegetables: Use Mexican table cream as a sauce for roasted or grilled vegetables, along with a sprinkle of queso fresco and a squeeze of lime juice.
Breakfast Dishes
Mexican table cream can also be used in a variety of breakfast dishes, including:
- Huevos Rancheros: Top your huevos rancheros with a dollop of Mexican table cream, along with a sprinkle of queso fresco and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Breakfast Burritos: Add a dollop of Mexican table cream to your breakfast burritos, along with scrambled eggs and chorizo.
- Chilaquiles: Use Mexican table cream to make a creamy sauce for chilaquiles, along with a sprinkle of queso fresco and a squeeze of lime juice.
Baking with Mexican Table Cream
Mexican table cream can also be used in a variety of baked goods, including:
Cakes and Cupcakes
- Tres Leches Cake: Use Mexican table cream to make a creamy sauce for tres leches cake, along with evaporated milk and condensed milk.
- Vanilla Cupcakes: Add a dollop of Mexican table cream to your vanilla cupcakes, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Cookies and Bars
- Snickerdoodles: Use Mexican table cream to make a creamy sauce for snickerdoodles, along with cinnamon and sugar.
- Cheesecake Bars: Add a dollop of Mexican table cream to your cheesecake bars, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Pies and Tarts
- Key Lime Pie: Use Mexican table cream to make a creamy sauce for key lime pie, along with lime juice and condensed milk.
- Pumpkin Pie: Add a dollop of Mexican table cream to your pumpkin pie, along with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Substitutions and Alternatives
If you can’t find Mexican table cream or prefer not to use it, there are several substitutions and alternatives you can use in its place. Some options include:
- Sour cream: Sour cream has a similar consistency and flavor to Mexican table cream, but it’s slightly tangier.
- Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar consistency to Mexican table cream, but it’s slightly tangier and has a more pronounced flavor.
- Heavy cream: Heavy cream has a richer and more luxurious texture than Mexican table cream, but it’s not as tangy.
- Half-and-half: Half-and-half has a similar consistency to Mexican table cream, but it’s slightly sweeter and has a more pronounced flavor.
Conclusion
Mexican table cream is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from traditional Mexican recipes to modern twists and creative applications. Whether you’re using it as a topping for tacos or as a sauce for roasted vegetables, Mexican table cream is sure to add a rich and creamy texture to your dishes. So next time you’re cooking or baking, be sure to give Mexican table cream a try and experience the flavors of Mexico for yourself.
Recommended Brands and Where to Buy
If you’re looking to try Mexican table cream, there are several brands and retailers that carry it. Some recommended brands include:
- Nestle: Nestle is a well-known brand that offers a variety of Mexican table cream products, including crema Mexicana and crema para cocinar.
- La Lechera: La Lechera is a popular brand in Mexico that offers a variety of Mexican table cream products, including crema Mexicana and crema para ensaladas.
- El Mexicano: El Mexicano is a US-based brand that offers a variety of Mexican table cream products, including crema Mexicana and crema para cocinar.
You can find Mexican table cream at most Latin American markets or online retailers, including:
- Amazon: Amazon offers a wide selection of Mexican table cream products from various brands, including Nestle and La Lechera.
- Walmart: Walmart carries a limited selection of Mexican table cream products, including Nestle and El Mexicano.
- Target: Target carries a limited selection of Mexican table cream products, including Nestle and La Lechera.
Note: Availability and selection may vary depending on your location and the retailer.
What is Mexican Table Cream and how does it differ from regular heavy cream?
Mexican Table Cream, also known as crema, is a type of dairy product that originates from Mexico. It is made from a mixture of cream and buttermilk or sour cream, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. Unlike regular heavy cream, Mexican Table Cream has a thicker consistency and a slightly tangy taste, making it an ideal addition to various Mexican dishes.
The main difference between Mexican Table Cream and regular heavy cream lies in their acidity levels. Mexican Table Cream has a higher acidity level due to the presence of buttermilk or sour cream, which helps to balance the richness of the cream. This acidity also makes it an excellent choice for cooking, as it can help to enhance the flavors of other ingredients without curdling or separating.
What are some common uses for Mexican Table Cream in cooking?
Mexican Table Cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and sauces to salads and desserts. One of its most common uses is as a topping for tacos, grilled meats, and vegetables. It can also be used as a base for sauces, such as salsa crema or crema ranchera, which are popular accompaniments to Mexican dishes.
In addition to its uses as a topping and sauce base, Mexican Table Cream can also be used as an ingredient in soups, stews, and casseroles. It adds a rich and creamy texture to these dishes, while its acidity helps to balance the flavors of other ingredients. Some popular dishes that use Mexican Table Cream include creamy soups, chiles rellenos, and enchiladas.
How do I substitute Mexican Table Cream in a recipe if I don’t have it?
If you don’t have Mexican Table Cream, there are several substitutes you can use in a recipe. One option is to mix heavy cream with a small amount of buttermilk or sour cream. This will give you a similar consistency and flavor to Mexican Table Cream. Another option is to use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a substitute, although these will have a tangier flavor than Mexican Table Cream.
When substituting Mexican Table Cream, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the dish may be slightly different. Mexican Table Cream has a unique flavor and consistency that is difficult to replicate with other ingredients. However, with a little experimentation, you can find a substitute that works well in your recipe.
Can I make my own Mexican Table Cream at home?
Yes, you can make your own Mexican Table Cream at home. To do this, you will need heavy cream, buttermilk or sour cream, and a bit of patience. Simply mix the heavy cream with the buttermilk or sour cream, and let it sit at room temperature for several hours or overnight. This will allow the mixture to thicken and develop the characteristic tangy flavor of Mexican Table Cream.
Making your own Mexican Table Cream at home can be a fun and rewarding process. It allows you to control the flavor and consistency of the cream, and you can customize it to your taste preferences. Additionally, homemade Mexican Table Cream is often less expensive than store-bought versions, making it a great option for those on a budget.
How do I store Mexican Table Cream to keep it fresh?
Mexican Table Cream should be stored in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. It’s best to store it in an airtight container, such as a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. This will help to prevent contamination and spoilage. You can also store Mexican Table Cream in the freezer, although this may affect its texture and consistency.
When storing Mexican Table Cream, make sure to check its expiration date and give it a sniff before using it. If it has an off smell or slimy texture, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it. Fresh Mexican Table Cream should have a mild, slightly tangy smell and a smooth, creamy texture.
Is Mexican Table Cream suitable for people with dairy allergies or intolerances?
Mexican Table Cream is a dairy product, which means it’s not suitable for people with dairy allergies or intolerances. However, there are some non-dairy alternatives available that can mimic the flavor and texture of Mexican Table Cream. These include coconut cream, almond milk, and soy creamer.
If you’re looking for a non-dairy substitute for Mexican Table Cream, it’s best to experiment with different options to find one that works well in your recipe. Keep in mind that non-dairy substitutes may have a different flavor and texture than Mexican Table Cream, so you may need to adjust the recipe accordingly.
Can I use Mexican Table Cream in sweet dishes, such as desserts?
Yes, Mexican Table Cream can be used in sweet dishes, such as desserts. Its rich, creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent addition to desserts like flan, cheesecake, and ice cream. You can also use it as a topping for fruit, cakes, and pastries.
When using Mexican Table Cream in sweet dishes, keep in mind that it can add a tangy flavor to the dessert. This can be balanced by adding sweet ingredients, such as sugar or honey, to the recipe. Experiment with different flavor combinations to find one that works well for you.