Sour Cream
Dairy
Nutri-ScoreB

Sour Cream

Lactococcus lactis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Sour cream is a fermented dairy product made from cream that has been soured by lactic acid bacteria. It is commonly used as a condiment or ingredient in various dishes, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Also known as:
soured creamcreme aigre
Scientific NameLactococcus lactis
Region of OriginEastern Europe

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories193 kcal
Water
64%
Fiber0g
Total27.5g
Protein
2.9g(11%)
Fats
20g(73%)
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%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Calcium81 mg (8%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Sour cream is a good source of calcium, which is essential for bone health and may help prevent osteoporosis.
It contains probiotics that can aid in digestion and promote gut health.
Rich in fat-soluble vitamins, sour cream can enhance the absorption of nutrients from other foods.
The lactic acid in sour cream may help improve lactose digestion for some individuals.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!High in saturated fats, excessive consumption may contribute to heart disease.
!Individuals with lactose intolerance may experience digestive discomfort.

How to Prepare & Consume

Sour cream can be used as a topping for baked potatoes, in dips, or as an ingredient in sauces. It is best used cold or at room temperature to maintain its creamy texture.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose sour cream that is fresh, with a smooth texture and no separation. Check the expiration date for optimal freshness.

How to Store

Store sour cream in the refrigerator, tightly sealed. Once opened, consume within 7-10 days for best quality.

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.
MythSour cream is the same as yogurt.
RealitySour cream is made from cream, while yogurt is made from milk and has different bacterial cultures.
MythYou cannot use sour cream in baking.
RealitySour cream can add moisture and richness to baked goods, enhancing their flavor and texture.

Healthy Recipes

Sour Cream and Avocado Dip

A creamy and nutritious dip combining the tanginess of sour cream with the richness of avocado, perfect for healthy snacking.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mash the avocado until smooth.
  2. 2. Mix in the sour cream, lime juice, and minced garlic until well combined.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, then serve with fresh veggies or whole-grain crackers.

Sour Cream and Spinach Stuffed Chicken Breast

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

Ingredients
  • 4 chicken breasts
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 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 sour cream, spinach, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Cut a pocket in each chicken breast, fill with the mixture, and bake for 25-30 minutes until cooked through.

Sour Cream and Herb Dressing

A light and zesty dressing made with sour cream and fresh herbs, perfect for drizzling over salads or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine sour cream, dill, parsley, and lemon juice.
  2. 2. Whisk until smooth and season with salt.
  3. 3. Serve over your favorite salad or as a dip for veggies.

Sour Cream Pancakes

Fluffy pancakes made with sour cream for added moisture and tang, perfect for a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and honey.
  2. 2. In another bowl, whisk together sour cream and egg.
  3. 3. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, then cook on a greased skillet until golden brown on both sides.

Sour Cream and Cucumber Salad

A refreshing salad featuring crisp cucumbers and a tangy sour cream dressing, ideal for a light side dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 cups cucumbers, sliced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine sour cream, vinegar, dill, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Add the sliced cucumbers and toss to coat.
  3. 3. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavors.

Sour Cream and Mushroom Quinoa Bake

A wholesome quinoa bake with mushrooms and sour cream, providing a hearty and nutritious meal option.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa, cooked
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2. Sauté onions and mushrooms in a pan until soft.
  3. 3. In a baking dish, combine cooked quinoa, sautéed mushrooms, sour cream, and vegetable broth, then bake for 20 minutes.

Sour Cream and Berry Parfait

A delightful parfait layered with creamy sour cream and fresh berries, making for a healthy dessert or breakfast.

Ingredients
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • Granola for topping
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix sour cream and honey until smooth.
  2. 2. Layer the sour cream mixture with berries in a glass.
  3. 3. Top with granola and serve immediately.

Sour Cream and Sweet Potato Soup

A creamy and comforting soup made with sweet potatoes and sour cream, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients
  • 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a pot, sauté onions until translucent.
  2. 2. Add sweet potatoes and vegetable broth, then simmer until sweet potatoes are tender.
  3. 3. Blend until smooth, stir in sour cream, and season with salt and pepper before serving.

Sour Cream and Chive Mashed Cauliflower

A healthy alternative to mashed potatoes, this dish uses cauliflower and sour cream for a creamy and flavorful side.

Ingredients
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons chives, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam cauliflower until tender, then drain.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mash the cauliflower with sour cream, chives, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. 3. Serve warm as a side dish.

Sour Cream and Lemon Zest Muffins

Light and fluffy muffins infused with lemon zest and sour cream, perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast treat.

Ingredients
  • 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 egg
  • Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix flour, honey, sour cream, egg, and lemon zest until combined.
  3. 3. Pour the batter into the muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is sour cream made from?

Sour cream is made from cream that has been fermented with lactic acid bacteria.

Is sour cream healthy?

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

Can I substitute sour cream in recipes?

Yes, alternatives like Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as substitutes.

How should sour cream be stored?

Sour cream should be kept refrigerated and consumed within a week after opening.

Can sour cream be frozen?

While it can be frozen, the texture may change upon thawing, making it less suitable for certain dishes.

What dishes commonly use sour cream?

Sour cream is often used in dips, baked potatoes, tacos, and as a base for creamy sauces.

Is there a difference between sour cream and crème fraîche?

Yes, crème fraîche has a higher fat content and a milder flavor compared to sour cream.

Can sour cream help with digestion?

Yes, the probiotics in sour cream can promote gut health and aid digestion.