Can’t find what you’re looking for? Read on to find out information about where crème fraîche is located in grocery stores and how you can use this yummy ingredient.
What is Creme Fraiche?
Creme fraiche is a dairy product made from heavy cream with an added starter culture such as sour cream or yogurt. It has a fat content of between 30%-45% and is a cultured cream that is thick in texture and subtle in taste, if not slightly tangy.
It is best described as a thickened cream with a nutty flavor, and its increasing popularity in America makes us wonder what all the fuss is about!
Cooking with creme fraiche is popular as it is versatile and can be used in a variety of hot, cold, savory, and sweet recipes. It is relatively easy to substitute and is an inexpensive ingredient available to purchase in most grocery stores.
The French ingredient is the literal translation of ‘fresh cream’ and is commonly used in various European dishes. It is the french version of the similar dairy product sour or soured cream.
Which Aisle will I Find Creme Fraiche in the Grocery Store?
You will find creme fraiche in any well-stocked grocery store. It is usually found in the dairy aisle among other cream products such as heavy cream, sour cream, and fresh milk.
Sometimes, finding creme fraiche can prove tricky. For example, it may not be sold in smaller stores if there is no demand for it. However, your local grocery store may stock it with gourmet cheeses at the deli counter.
Where Can I Buy Creme Fraiche?
This popular dairy product is available in most stores and can be bought online from websites such as Whole Food Market and Trader Joe’s. Gluten-free options are also available to purchase.
Creme fraiche is not a seasonal product, so it is available all year round.
How is Creme Fraiche Sold at the Grocery Store?
Grocery stores usually sell creme fraiche in small plastic tubs or glass jars at weights of around 6-8oz. It is reasonably priced so won’t cost you the earth should you forget to use it.
Don’t forget to check the label for recycling information.
How Do I Store Creme Fraiche?
Whether store-bought or homemade, crème fraîche should be refrigerated but never frozen. It will usually last around ten days before it is deemed unsafe to eat. If opened, most retailers advise consuming it within three days.
Always check the use-by date as spoiled dairy products can be dangerous if consumed.
Can I Substitute Creme Fraiche for Other Dairy Products?
Substituting creme fraiche can be done however it may alter your recipe slightly. The internet is bursting with recipes containing appropriate replacements that bring you excellent results with similar tastes.
Greek yogurt can be used but isn’t nearly as creamy and doesn’t provide that same rich flavor. Mascarpone or ricotta cheese is also a good recommendation. However, these cheeses are sweet in taste, so they are best used in dessert dishes such as fruit pies or chocolate tarts.
Sour cream is the perfect alternative and probably the closest you will get to the real thing. Although it contains less fat, sour cream is quite bitter, so it is important to consider whether it will enhance or spoil the end result.
Unlike creme fraiche, many of the above replacements will curdle if added to the heat. The key to prevent this from happening is to take the sauce or soup off the heat and let it cool slightly before adding in.
Mexican crema can also be served as a substitute. This is made using heavy cream, buttermilk, lime juice, and salt. It is best served straight out of the fridge and onto steaming enchiladas or a freshly baked potato.
Homemade Creme Fraiche
Making your own creme fraiche is fun, simple, and delicious. This delightful condiment can be added to both sweet and savory dishes to thicken sauces or add flavor. Follow these easy steps to make your own.
You will need:
1x cup of cultured buttermilk
2x tbsp of whipping cream
1x glass jar
In the glass jar, combine the whipping cream and buttermilk into a mixture. Stir well and cover tightly with a clean dishcloth or cellophane. Let the mixture sit at room temperature (preferably 70 degrees Fahrenheit) for 8 hours, or if possible, overnight, as this will get you the best results.
If you have ever made your own yogurt, you will be familiar with the setting process. Stir the mixture and refrigerate for up to ten days.
Using cultured buttermilk in this recipe will make a big difference as it contains added bacterial cultures, but regular buttermilk will do. Buttermilk can be made using regular milk with added lemon juice; however, this simply won’t cut it.
Real buttermilk contains microbes that are helpful when making your creme fraiche. These are not present in regular milk. You can also use ultra-pasteurized heavy cream instead of whipping cream for a richer, creamier taste.
What Can I Eat with Creme Fraiche?
This creamy condiment is a delicious addition to fish dishes such as salmon with green vegetables. It can be added to sauces and soups as a thickener and will not curdle when added to the heat.
Fresh fruit and fruity desserts are often served with the helping of crème fraîche. The tangy taste of the cream, along with the sweetness of the fruit, is a great combination.
You can add a dollop to your favorite pasta dish to create a rich sauce or spoon it into a baked potato. Crème fraîche can also be added to chicken dishes or used as a salad dressing.
To conclude, we hope you found this article useful. Who knew dairy could be so interesting? Located on the dairy aisle of grocery stores, this creamy additive is a classic meal enhancer.
If you want your meal to be thicker or creamier, adding crème fraîche is a perfect choice. Explore your culinary side and try out some recipes using this beautiful french delicacy.