18 Mexican Crema Recipe Serious Eats You Must Try Them!
Published on: Apr 22, 2024
Mexican crema is a staple in Mexican cuisine, adding a creamy and tangy element to dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales. This versatile condiment is easy to make at home, and with this recipe from Serious Eats, you'll be able to whip up a batch of authentic Mexican crema in no time.
Main Ingredients: Jasmine Rice, Water, Beans, Tomatoes, Red Onion
Get ready for a flavor explosion with this delicious Mexican Chicken Bowl topped with a spicy Jalapeño Crema. The combination of tender, juicy chicken and creamy, zesty crema will have your taste buds begging for more. Plus, it's a great way to use up leftover chicken and rice for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
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Blackened Shrimp Tacos with Lime Crema
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Blackening Seasoning, Olive Oil, Paprika
If you love seafood, you have to try these Blackened Shrimp Tacos with a tangy Lime Crema. The Cajun-style seasoning adds a kick of flavor to the succulent shrimp, while the crema cools it down and adds a refreshing citrus twist. Serve them up for a fun and delicious taco night that everyone will enjoy.
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Sweet Potato Tacos With Avocado Crema
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Sweet Potatoes, Olive Oil, Chili Powder
For a vegetarian twist on traditional tacos, try these Sweet Potato Tacos with a creamy Avocado Crema. The sweetness of the roasted sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the tangy crema, and the added crunch of fresh veggies and creamy avocado makes for a satisfying and healthy meal.
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Mexican-Inspired Tofu Tacos with Chili-Lime Slaw and...
Main Ingredients: Firm Tofu, Coconut Oil, Purple Onion, Green Bell
Even meat lovers will be impressed by these flavorful Mexican-inspired Tofu Tacos. The tofu is marinated in a blend of spices, then grilled to perfection for a hearty and protein-packed filling. Top it off with a zesty chili-lime slaw and a dollop of crema for a burst of flavor in every bite.
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Cuban Fish Tacos with Citrus Mango Slaw + Chipotle...
Main Ingredients: Mahi Mahi, Olive Oil, Lime, Freshly Squeezed Orange
Add some Caribbean flair to your taco night with these Cuban Fish Tacos. The tender and flaky fish is seasoned with a blend of spices and topped with a tangy citrus mango slaw. And for an extra kick of heat, drizzle on some chipotle crema for a symphony of flavors that will transport you to a tropical paradise.
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Quinoa & Black Bean Tacos (with Cilantro Lime Crema!)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic, Chili Powder
Looking for a healthier option for taco night? These Quinoa & Black Bean Tacos are packed with protein and fiber, and topped off with a refreshing cilantro lime crema. They're a great way to satisfy your Mexican food cravings without the guilt.
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Mexican Eggrolls
Main Ingredients: Egg Roll Wrappers, Refried Beans, Chorizo, Onion
Put a twist on traditional eggrolls with these Mexican-inspired eggrolls filled with your favorite taco toppings. They're perfect as a party appetizer or a fun and unique dinner option. And don't forget to dip them in a zesty crema for a burst of flavor.
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Poblano “crema” Enchiladas
Main Ingredients: Tomatillos, Jalapeno, Onion, Garlic Clove, Water
For a creamy and indulgent take on enchiladas, try these Poblano “crema” Enchiladas. The roasted poblano peppers add a smoky and slightly spicy flavor to the creamy sauce, while the hearty filling of chicken and veggies makes for a satisfying meal. Serve them with a side of rice and beans for a complete Mexican feast.
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Vegetarian Tacos with Spicy Crema
Main Ingredients: Taco Shells, Taco Seasoning, Yellow Bell Peppers
Who says tacos need meat to be delicious? These Vegetarian Tacos are filled with a variety of veggies and topped with a spicy crema for a burst of flavor. Plus, they're a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients into your diet.
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Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Avocado Crema
Main Ingredients: Large Shrimp, Olive Oil, Seasoned Salt, Pepper, Corn
For a lighter and healthier option, try these Grilled Shrimp Tacos topped with a creamy Avocado Crema. The shrimp is marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and grilled to perfection, then topped with a creamy and refreshing crema. It's a great way to enjoy tacos without feeling weighed down.
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Grilled Chicken Tacos with Roasted Poblano Crema
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Chicken Breast, Limes, Oil, Chili Powder
Take your taco game to the next level with these Grilled Chicken Tacos topped with a zesty Roasted Poblano Crema. The smoky and slightly spicy flavor of the crema pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken for a mouthwatering combination. Serve them up at your next BBQ for a crowd-pleasing dish.
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Roasted Poblanos in Cream Sauce (Rajas con Crema)
Main Ingredients: Poblano Chiles, Butter, White Onion, Salt, Crema, Milk
Rajas con Crema is a classic Mexican dish that combines roasted poblano peppers with a creamy and tangy sauce. It's a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main dish, and pairs perfectly with warm tortillas and a dollop of crema. Give this traditional recipe a try for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
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Beef Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Chuck Roast, Lime Juice, Tomato Paste, Beef Broth
Street tacos are a staple in Mexican street food, and for good reason – they're delicious! These Beef Street Tacos are filled with tender and flavorful beef, topped with fresh cilantro and onion, and finished off with a drizzle of crema. They're a must-try for any taco lover.
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Fish Tacos with Chipotle Crema
Main Ingredients: Tilapia Filets, Olive Oil, Lime Juice, Shredded
For a spicy twist on fish tacos, try this recipe for Fish Tacos with a zesty Chipotle Crema. The creamy and smoky crema adds a burst of flavor to the tender and flaky fish, and pairs perfectly with the fresh toppings. Serve them up for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner.
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Grilled Steak Tacos With Cilantro Lime Crema
Main Ingredients: Top Sirloin Steak, Taco Seasoning, Lime Juice
Upgrade your taco night with these Grilled Steak Tacos topped with a tangy Cilantro Lime Crema. The juicy and flavorful steak is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to perfection, then topped with a refreshing and zesty crema. It's a match made in heaven.
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Black Bean Enchiladas with Jalapeno Crema
Main Ingredients: Refried Black Beans, Medium Salsa, Cilantro, Black
For a vegetarian version of enchiladas, try these Black Bean Enchiladas topped with a spicy Jalapeno Crema. The black beans provide a hearty and satisfying filling, while the crema adds a kick of heat and flavor. It's a great way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish with a twist.
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Taco Platter With Avocado Crema
Main Ingredients: Chicken Cutlets, Spice Blend, Olive Oil, Ground Beef
For a fun and interactive dinner option, try serving up a Taco Platter with a variety of toppings and a zesty Avocado Crema. Let everyone create their own tacos with their favorite fillings, and don't forget to drizzle on some crema for a burst of flavor. It's a great way to get the whole family involved in mealtime.
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Black Bean Soup with Chipotle Crema
Main Ingredients: Dried Black Beans, Olive Oil, Onion, Carrot, Celery
On a chilly day, there's nothing better than a warm bowl of soup. This Black Bean Soup is packed with flavor and topped with a spicy chipotle crema for an extra kick. Serve it with some warm tortillas for a cozy and comforting meal.
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Spicy Black Lentil Tacos with Ancho Crema
Main Ingredients: Black Lentils, Water, White Onion, Large Tomato
Lentils are a great alternative to meat in tacos, and these Spicy Black Lentil Tacos are proof of that. The lentils are cooked in a flavorful blend of spices and topped with a tangy Ancho Crema for a burst of flavor. Plus, they're packed with protein and fiber for a nutritious meal.
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Baja Fish Tacos With Chipotle, Cilantro & Lime Crema
Main Ingredients: Spanish Rice, Black Beans, Cilantro, Crema, Chipotle
For a taste of the coast, try these Baja Fish Tacos topped with a zesty Chipotle, Cilantro, and Lime Crema. The combination of tender fish, fresh herbs, and tangy crema will transport you to a beachside paradise. Serve them up for a fun and delicious dinner option.
What is Mexican Crema?
Mexican crema is a type of sour cream commonly used in Mexican cooking. It is similar to American sour cream, but with a thinner consistency and a slightly tangier flavor. This is due to the addition of lactic acid bacteria during the fermentation process, which gives Mexican crema its distinct taste and texture.
The Importance of Authenticity
When it comes to Mexican cuisine, authenticity is key. Using authentic ingredients and techniques is what sets apart a mediocre dish from a truly delicious one. That's why making your own Mexican crema is so important. Not only is it easy to make, but it also adds an essential touch of authenticity to your Mexican dishes.
The Recipe
Now that you understand the importance of making your own Mexican crema, let's dive into the recipe. You'll need heavy cream, buttermilk, lime juice, and salt. The combination of these ingredients creates the perfect balance of creaminess and tanginess that makes Mexican crema so unique.
To make the crema, simply mix the heavy cream and buttermilk together in a bowl. Then, add in the lime juice and salt, stirring until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for about 24 hours. This allows the lactic acid bacteria to do its magic, creating the perfect tangy flavor.
Once the 24 hours is up, give the crema a taste and adjust the salt and lime juice to your liking. Transfer it to a container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate for at least a few hours before using. This will allow the crema to thicken and become the perfect consistency for drizzling over your favorite Mexican dishes.
Get Creative!
Now that you have your homemade Mexican crema, the possibilities are endless. Use it as a topping for tacos, mix it into sauces and dips, or even add it to your morning scrambled eggs for a touch of tanginess. With this simple and delicious recipe from Serious Eats, you'll never go back to store-bought Mexican crema again.
In Conclusion
Mexican crema is a must-have in any Mexican kitchen. With its creamy and tangy flavor, it adds an essential touch of authenticity to any dish. Making your own at home is easy and allows you to customize the flavor to your liking. So why not give this recipe from Serious Eats a try and elevate your Mexican cooking to the next level?
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