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Cultured Sour Cream
Dairy
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Cultured Sour Cream

Lactococcus lactis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Cultured sour cream is a dairy product made by fermenting cream with specific bacterial cultures, resulting in a tangy flavor and creamy texture. It is often used in cooking, baking, and as a condiment.

Also known as:
sour cream (USA)creme aigre (France)
Scientific NameLactococcus lactis
Region of OriginUnited States

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories193 kcal
Water
65%
Fiber0g
Total26.9g
Protein
2.3g(9%)
Fats
20g(74%)
Carbohydrates
4.6g(17%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin A249 IU (5%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (12%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.4 mg (4%)
Vitamin B120.4 mcg (17%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Vitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0 mgVitamin K: 0 mcgVitamin b1 (thiamine): 0 mgVitamin b3 (niacin): 0.1 mgVitamin b6 (pyridoxine): 0 mgFolate: 0 mcgCholine: 0 mg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium110 mg (11%)
Magnesium9 mg (2%)
Phosphorus90 mg (9%)
Potassium150 mg (4%)
Zinc0.5 mg (5%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Iron: 0.1 mgCopper: 0 mgManganese: 0 mgSelenium: 0 mcg

Health Benefits

Rich in probiotics, cultured sour cream can support gut health by promoting a balanced microbiome.
It provides a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort when consuming sour cream. It is advisable to choose lactose-free options if necessary.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best used as a topping for baked potatoes, in dips, or as an ingredient in sauces and dressings. It can also be used in baking to add moisture and tang.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose sour cream that is labeled as 'cultured' for the best flavor and probiotic benefits. Look for a product with a short ingredient list and no added preservatives.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks after opening. Keep tightly sealed to prevent contamination.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Probiotic, Digestive, Nutrient-rich
Main Applications
Gut health improvement
Culinary applications
Bioactive Compounds
Lactic acid

Helps in digestion and acts as a preservative.

How to Consume
Fresh, as a dip, in sauces, or in baking
Did you know?

"Sour cream has been used in various cultures for centuries, often as a way to preserve cream and enhance flavor."

Myths vs Realities

MythSour cream is unhealthy due to its fat content.
RealityWhile sour cream is high in fat, it can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll sour cream is the same.
RealityCultured sour cream is made with specific bacterial cultures, which enhances its flavor and health benefits.
MythYou can't use sour cream in cooking.
RealitySour cream can be used in many recipes, including sauces, dips, and baked goods.

Healthy Recipes

Cultured Sour Cream and Avocado Dip

This creamy dip combines cultured sour cream with ripe avocados for a healthy twist on traditional guacamole, perfect for snacking or as a party appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 2 ripe avocados
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a mixing bowl, mash the avocados until smooth.
  2. 2. Stir in the cultured sour cream, lime juice, and minced garlic.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.

Herbed Cultured Sour Cream Salad Dressing

A light and refreshing salad dressing made with cultured sour cream and fresh herbs, perfect for drizzling over your favorite greens.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together the cultured sour cream, olive oil, and apple cider vinegar.
  2. 2. Add the chopped dill and chives, mixing until well combined.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, then drizzle over salads as desired.

Cultured Sour Cream and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with a flavorful mixture of cultured sour cream and spinach, making for a healthy and satisfying main dish.

Ingredients
  • 4 boneless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix the cultured sour cream, chopped spinach, feta cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast and stuff with the mixture, then bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

Cultured Sour Cream Pancakes

Fluffy and light pancakes made with cultured sour cream, offering a deliciously tangy flavor and a boost of protein for a healthy breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1/2 cup almond milk
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
  2. 2. In another bowl, whisk together the cultured sour cream, almond milk, egg, and honey.
  3. 3. Mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined, then cook on a hot griddle until golden brown.

Cultured Sour Cream and Cucumber Salad

A refreshing salad featuring crisp cucumbers and a tangy cultured sour cream dressing, perfect as a side dish or light lunch.

Ingredients
  • 2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the cultured sour cream, lemon juice, chopped dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Add the sliced cucumbers and toss until well coated.
  3. 3. Chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving.

Cultured Sour Cream and Berry Parfait

A healthy breakfast or snack option featuring layers of cultured sour cream, fresh berries, and granola for added crunch.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 1/2 cup granola
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a glass or bowl, layer the cultured sour cream, mixed berries, and granola.
  2. 2. Drizzle with honey if desired, and repeat the layers until all ingredients are used.
  3. 3. Serve immediately for a delightful parfait.

Cultured Sour Cream and Roasted Beet Hummus

A vibrant and nutritious hummus made with roasted beets and cultured sour cream, perfect for dipping veggies or spreading on sandwiches.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked and peeled beets
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1 can chickpeas, drained
  • 2 tablespoons tahini
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a food processor, combine the beets, cultured sour cream, chickpeas, tahini, and lemon juice.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth, adding water if necessary to reach desired consistency.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, then serve with pita chips or fresh vegetables.

Cultured Sour Cream and Sweet Potato Mash

A creamy and nutritious side dish made with mashed sweet potatoes and cultured sour cream, adding a tangy flavor to your meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/2 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Boil the sweet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  2. 2. Drain and mash the sweet potatoes in a bowl, then mix in the cultured sour cream and maple syrup.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, and serve warm.

Cultured Sour Cream and Herb Quinoa Bowl

A nutritious quinoa bowl topped with a creamy cultured sour cream dressing and fresh herbs, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix the cultured sour cream and lemon juice until smooth.
  2. 2. In a serving bowl, layer the cooked quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
  3. 3. Drizzle the sour cream dressing over the top, and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Cultured Sour Cream and Zucchini Fritters

Crispy and delicious zucchini fritters made with cultured sour cream, perfect as a snack or a side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis, grated
  • 1 cup cultured sour cream
  • 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for frying
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the grated zucchini, cultured sour cream, flour, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then drop spoonfuls of the mixture into the pan.
  3. 3. Fry until golden brown on both sides, then drain on paper towels before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is cultured sour cream the same as regular sour cream?

Yes, cultured sour cream is made using specific bacterial cultures, giving it a tangy flavor and thicker texture compared to regular sour cream.

Can I use cultured sour cream in baking?

Absolutely! Cultured sour cream can add moisture and a slight tang to baked goods.

Is cultured sour cream healthy?

In moderation, it can be part of a healthy diet, providing probiotics and calcium.

How should I store cultured sour cream?

Keep it refrigerated and tightly sealed to maintain freshness. Consume within a few weeks after opening.

Can I freeze cultured sour cream?

Freezing is not recommended as it can change the texture, but it can be used in cooked dishes after thawing.

What can I substitute for cultured sour cream?

Greek yogurt or buttermilk can be used as substitutes in most recipes.

Does cultured sour cream contain lactose?

Yes, it contains lactose, but some people with lactose intolerance may tolerate it better due to the fermentation process.

Can I make cultured sour cream at home?

Yes, you can make it by mixing cream with a small amount of buttermilk and letting it sit at room temperature until thickened.