Zesty Cilantro Crema the Ultimate Taco Topping and More
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy livening up your tacos? Honestly, are you even living if you’re not adding a dollop of something creamy and zesty? This cilantro crema is a total game changer.
It's packed with fresh, vibrant flavour. Think lime, garlic, and loads of cilantro.
Brief Overview
This cilantro lime crema sauce takes its inspiration from Mexican street food. It's super easy, taking only 10 minutes to knock up.
Plus, it makes about 1 1/2 cups. This is enough for about 12 servings of deliciousness, and it's perfect taco sauce recipe .
Main Benefits
This easy taco topping is more than just delicious. Healthy condiments are always a winner. The cilantro itself is packed with vitamins! It's the perfect finishing touch for your next Taco Tuesday.
What makes this lime crema recipe special? It's dead simple. This is a recipe you can customize to your heart's content.
Wanna learn how to make the best cilantro cream ? I remember the first time I made something similar. It was a right mess.
Honestly? I used dried cilantro. Total rookie error. Don't be like me!
Ingredients You'll Need
You'll need pretty basic bits. Grab 1 cup of sour cream (full fat or reduced fat, whatever floats your boat), a generous 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro leaves.
You'll need 1/4 cup of mayonnaise (again, your choice of fat content) and a couple of tablespoons of lime juice.
Freshly squeezed is always better. Dig out one clove of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt.
Finally, grab a pinch of cayenne pepper (if you're feeling brave) and 2 tablespoons of water. Remember, fresh is best ! Use it all up.
Now get blending, you culinary genius.
Right, let's dive into making this lush cilantro crema . Honestly, it's simpler than brewing a cuppa. You'll be drizzling this Cilantro Lime Crema Sauce all over your tacos.
I promise. It's the best Easy Taco Topping ever.
Ingredients & Equipment
Seriously, this isn't rocket science. We are making a Cilantro Cream that is so simple. You'll wonder why you ever bought shop bought stuff.
Main Ingredients
Here's the lowdown on what you need.
- 1 cup ( 240 ml ) sour cream. Full fat gives the best richness. But go for reduced fat if you're watching the waistline. For a Mexican Crema Substitute you can also use Greek Yogurt for a tangier flavor!
- 1/2 cup ( 115 ml ) fresh cilantro. Not dried, mind you! This is key for that vibrant flavour.
- 1/4 cup ( 60 ml ) mayonnaise. Again, full fat's creamier. Light works fine too.
- 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ) fresh lime juice. Fresh only . Bottle stuff just doesn't cut it.
- 1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon ). Don't overdo it, nobody wants garlic breath.
- 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ) ground cumin. Adds a lovely warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.25 ml ) kosher salt, or to taste. Seasoning is crucial!
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional). For a kick. I love it!
- 2 tablespoons ( 30ml ) water (or more, to adjust consistency).
Quality matters, especially with the cilantro. You want bright green, perky leaves. Not wilted, sad-looking bits. It is an awesome Healthy Condiment .
Seasoning Notes
Cilantro Crema Sauce relies on balance. The cumin adds earthiness. While the lime brings the zing. This is so much more than just Seasoned Sour Cream For Tacos .
Play around with the cayenne. If you like it hot, add more! A squeeze of honey works well for a Cilantro Lime Crema Sauce .
Equipment Needed
Less is more here. I've even made it with a hand blender.
- Blender or food processor. A stick blender can work in a pinch!
- Measuring cups and spoons. Obvious, but still.
- Cutting board and knife. For chopping the cilantro and garlic.
- Lime juicer (optional). Makes life easier.
You could definitely use a pestle and mortar if you're feeling fancy. This really is an Easy Taco Topping with Cilantro Sauce for Fish Tacos or use it like a Creamy Cilantro Dressing for Salads.
I found it to be a superb Taco Sauce Recipe .
Zesty Cilantro Crema: The Ultimate Taco Topping (and More!)
Honestly, who doesn't love a good taco sauce recipe ? But let's ditch the jarred stuff. We're making something way better.
We're talking zesty cilantro crema , folks. This lime crema recipe is a total game changer. This vibrant cilantro cream is not just for tacos.
Use it on everything. I swear, it’s that good. I still remember the first time I tried something similar at a small taco shop when I was travelling in Mexico.
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
This easy taco topping starts with getting organised. It's called mise en place in fancy chef speak, but basically, it means have everything ready.
Roughly chop 1/2 cup (115 ml) fresh cilantro leaves . Mince 1 clove garlic (about 1 teaspoon). Juice those limes. You'll need 2 tablespoons (30 ml) lime juice .
Honestly, prepping well is the key to a quick and stress free cook. Trust me.
Get Your Creamy On: step-by-step
Ready to transform simple ingredients into cilantro lime crema sauce ?
- Blend 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream , the chopped cilantro, 1/4 cup (60 ml) mayonnaise , lime juice, garlic, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) ground cumin , 1/4 teaspoon (1.25 ml) kosher salt , and a pinch of cayenne (if you like it spicy) in your blender or food processor.
- Blend until super smooth. Scrape the sides if needed.
- Add 2 tablespoons (30ml) water to thin it out. Want it thinner? Add more water, a tablespoon at a time.
- Taste. Add more salt, lime, or cayenne, depending on your taste.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes (optional, but recommended). This lets the flavours get all friendly.
Pro Tips for Cilantro Crema Perfection
Want to take your cilantro crema to the next level? Here are a few tricks. Fresh cilantro and fresh lime? Yes, please! Avoid dried herbs.
Taste test. See if your seasoned sour cream for tacos is missing anything. If you want to make this healthy condiments , substitute vegan alternatives.
Remember, don’t over blend!
This creamy cilantro dressing is a mexican crema substitute you can't miss. And if you're feeling adventurous, try it as a cilantro sauce for fish tacos !
Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Cilantro Crema Game!
Right, so you've got the recipe for this bangin' cilantro crema . But let's be real, the devil's in the details, innit? This is where we chat about the little things that take your Cilantro Lime Crema Sauce from "meh" to "OMG, I need more!".
Serving Suggestions: Posh Noshing
Presentation is key. Dollop a generous spoonful of cilantro crema alongside your taco filling. A little drizzle on top? Pure magic! For drinks, ice-cold Mexican beer or even a cheeky margarita goes down a treat.
Honestly, this creamy cilantro dressing isn't just for tacos. I reckon you could slap it on grilled chicken, fish... heck, even dunk your chips in it.
Storing Your Seasoned Sour Cream for Tacos
Fridge is your best mate here. Pop your cilantro cream in an airtight container and it'll be good for about 3-4 days.
If you're thinking long term, freezing's not ideal. The texture can go a bit weird. As for reheating... it's a cold sauce, yeah? No need!
Getting Creative: Lime Crema Recipe Remixes
Fancy a bit of a change? Swap the sour cream for a Mexican crema substitute if you’re feeling fancy. Or if you're trying to be good (we all have those days!), use Greek yogurt.
To spice it up, toss in a jalapeño or a pinch of chilli flakes. I like adding a dash of lime zest for an extra zing.
And for seasonal swaps, consider using roasted poblano peppers in the autumn for a deeper flavour.
Nutrition Deets and Healthy Condiments
Okay, let's be real. This isn't a health food, but it's not the worst thing in the world either. Think of it as a flavour boost! It’s about 75 calories per serving.
The lime is packed with Vitamin C! You know it's better than that shop bought stuff with all sorts of E numbers.
Look, cooking's about having a laugh and experimenting. Don't be scared to tweak the recipe to your liking. Honestly, you'll be chuffed with the easy taco topping you end up with.
Go on, get stuck in! With a good taco sauce recipe or amazing cilantro sauce for fish tacos , you will never regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make cilantro crema ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making cilantro crema a few hours in advance (or even the day before) is a cracking idea. It gives the flavours time to properly meld together, resulting in a more delicious and vibrant sauce.
Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge think of it like aging a fine cheddar; time is your friend!
My cilantro crema is too thick! How can I thin it out?
No worries, that's an easy fix! Just add a tablespoon of water at a time until you reach your desired consistency. You could also use a bit more lime juice for extra tang and a slightly thinner sauce. Remember, you're aiming for a drizzle able consistency, like the perfect gravy on a Sunday roast.
Can I make a vegan version of this cilantro crema recipe?
You bet your bottom dollar you can! Simply swap out the sour cream and mayonnaise with your favourite vegan alternatives, like cashew cream or vegan mayo. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan friendly, so you can enjoy a creamy, plant based cilantro crema without missing out on any of the flavour.
It's a proper win-win, innit?
How long does cilantro crema last in the fridge?
Cilantro crema will generally last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Keep an eye on it; if it starts to look or smell off, best to toss it.
Fresh ingredients are key to a long shelf life, so don't let it linger like that leftover shepherd's pie that's been in the back of the fridge for a week!
What can I use cilantro crema on, besides tacos?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! Cilantro crema is incredibly versatile. Try it drizzled over grilled chicken, fish, or steak. It's also fantastic as a dip for roasted vegetables or spread on a veggie burger. Think of it as your secret weapon to elevate just about any dish; it's the Mary Berry of condiments!
I don't have sour cream, what can I substitute in this cilantro crema?
Not a problem, you have a couple of options! Greek yogurt is a great substitute, offering a similar tangy flavour and creamy texture, though it will be slightly tangier than sour cream. You could also use crème fraîche for a richer, more decadent alternative.
It's all about making do with what you've got, just like a proper Blue Peter make!
Zesty Cilantro Crema The Ultimate Taco Topping A
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 75 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |