FOR CONTEMPORARY SMOKED FOOD & GRILLED DISHES
Softly whipped cream can be a fine “sauce” for grilled or even smoked fruit. We tend to prefer the extra acidity of velvety crème fraîche ourselves. You can buy it and then stir in a bit of spice, but it’s a snap to make yourself—and cheaper than store-bought versions. Avoid ultra-pasteurized cream, which has been heated high enough to blast it of good as well as bad bacteria. You need some of those good ones to get the cream to culture, which is an overnight task.
Gingered Crème Fraîche is a luscious and versatile condiment that brings together the richness of cream, the tang of buttermilk or yogurt, and the warm, spicy notes of ginger. This delightful creation is the result of a simple fermentation process that thickens the cream and imparts a delightful tanginess, reminiscent of sour cream but with a more refined texture.
The process of making Gingered Crème Fraîche is surprisingly easy. By combining whipping cream with buttermilk or yogurt and allowing the mixture to rest in a warm environment, you create the perfect conditions for the cream to develop its unique flavor and thickness. This incubation period, typically lasting from 8 to 12 hours, transforms the ingredients into a creamy and tangy delight.
After the cream has thickened, the addition of brown sugar, ground dried ginger, and minced crystallized ginger takes this crème fraîche to the next level. The brown sugar adds a gentle sweetness that complements the creaminess, while the two forms of ginger contribute layers of warmth and spice. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that pairs wonderfully with various fruits, adding a touch of elegance and complexity to your dessert offerings.
Gingered Crème Fraîche is a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Its creamy texture and unique flavor profile make it a perfect accompaniment for a variety of fresh fruits, from berries to tropical delights. It’s equally at home served alongside warm desserts or as a finishing touch to a chilled fruit salad. The contrast of the creamy crème fraîche and the vibrant, juicy fruits creates a delectable balance that is sure to please the palate.
This condiment not only enhances the taste of your dishes but also adds a touch of sophistication to your presentation. With its velvety consistency and inviting aroma, Gingered Crème Fraîche elevates simple desserts to gourmet delights. Plus, its versatility allows for experimentation with different fruits and dessert creations, giving you the freedom to explore new and exciting flavor combinations.
Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with an elegant dessert presentation or simply want to enjoy a delectable treat, Gingered Crème Fraîche is a wonderful addition to your culinary arsenal. Its blend of creamy, tangy, and spicy flavors is a testament to the magic that can be created with a few simple ingredients and a touch of patience.
MAKES: ABOUT 1¼ CUPS
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 cup whipping cream, not ultra-pasteurized
- 3 tablespoons buttermilk or plain yogurt with active cultures
- 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground dried ginger
- 2 tablespoons minced crystallized ginger
INSTRUCTIONS:
- In a bowl, stir together the whipping cream and buttermilk (or yogurt). Cover the bowl loosely with a clean cloth or plastic wrap.
- Place the bowl in a warm area of your kitchen for a duration of 8 to 12 hours. During this time, the cream will thicken and develop the characteristic tangy flavor of crème fraîche.
- After the incubation period, the cream should have thickened noticeably. Stir in the packed brown sugar, ground dried ginger, and minced crystallized ginger until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a covered container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Chilling the crème fraîche allows the flavors to meld and develop further.
- Once chilled, the Ginger Crème Fraîche is ready to be served alongside a variety of fruits. Its creamy, slightly tangy, and subtly spiced profile will enhance the flavors of the fruits it accompanies.
- Store any remaining crème fraîche in the refrigerator. It can be kept for about a week, provided you can resist the temptation to enjoy it as a snack.
