By Administrator 
Double cream what is – Step into the world of double cream, a luxurious dairy product that elevates culinary creations to new heights. Its velvety texture and high fat content make it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike.
From decadent desserts to savory sauces, double cream adds a touch of richness and indulgence to every dish. Discover its culinary versatility, nutritional value, and more in this comprehensive guide to double cream.
Nutritional Value of Double Cream: Double Cream What Is
Double cream is a high-fat dairy product made by skimming the top layer of milk. It has a thick, creamy texture and a rich, buttery flavor. Double cream is often used in cooking and baking, and it can also be enjoyed on its own.
Double cream is a good source of several nutrients, including:
- Fat:Double cream is a high-fat food, with about 60% of its calories coming from fat. Most of the fat in double cream is saturated fat, which has been linked to heart disease and other health problems. However, some studies have shown that moderate consumption of saturated fat may not be as harmful as once thought.
- Calories:Double cream is a high-calorie food, with about 240 calories per 100 grams. This makes it important to consume double cream in moderation, especially if you are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- Protein:Double cream is a good source of protein, with about 3 grams per 100 grams. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it can also help to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
- Calcium:Double cream is a good source of calcium, with about 120 milligrams per 100 grams. Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, and it can also help to prevent osteoporosis.
- Vitamin A:Double cream is a good source of vitamin A, with about 300 micrograms per 100 grams. Vitamin A is essential for good vision, and it can also help to protect against infections.
Potential Health Benefits of Double Cream
In addition to its nutritional value, double cream may also have some potential health benefits. These benefits include:
- Reduced risk of heart disease:Some studies have shown that moderate consumption of saturated fat may not be as harmful as once thought. In fact, some studies have even shown that saturated fat may actually help to reduce the risk of heart disease. This is because saturated fat can help to raise HDL cholesterol, which is the “good” cholesterol.
HDL cholesterol helps to remove LDL cholesterol, which is the “bad” cholesterol, from the body.
- Improved bone health:Double cream is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth. Calcium can help to prevent osteoporosis, which is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle.
- Reduced risk of cancer:Some studies have shown that double cream may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and colon cancer. This is because double cream contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is a fatty acid that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
It is important to note that these potential health benefits are based on observational studies, which cannot prove cause and effect. More research is needed to confirm the health benefits of double cream.
Substitutes for Double Cream
Double cream is a versatile ingredient used in cooking and baking. However, if you don’t have double cream on hand or are looking for a lower-fat alternative, several substitutes can provide similar results.
Consider the following factors when choosing a substitute:
- Fat content: Double cream has a fat content of around 48%. Substitutes with a similar fat content will produce richer results.
- Flavor: Double cream has a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. Choose substitutes with a similar flavor profile.
- Texture: Double cream is thick and creamy. Substitutes should have a similar texture to achieve the desired consistency.
Crème Fraîche
Crème fraîche is a cultured cream with a fat content of around 30%. It has a slightly tangy flavor and a thick, spoonable texture. Crème fraîche can be used as a substitute for double cream in sauces, soups, and desserts.
Advantages:Adds a subtle tangy flavor, thickens sauces and soups well.
Disadvantages:May not be as rich as double cream, can curdle if overheated.
Double cream is a type of heavy cream that contains at least 48% butterfat. It is often used in desserts, such as Texas carrot zucchini cake , because it adds a rich, creamy flavor. Double cream can also be used to make whipped cream, which is a popular topping for desserts and drinks.
If you are looking for a delicious and versatile cream to use in your desserts, double cream is a great option.
Recipe:Crème fraîche can be used to make a creamy pasta sauce. Combine crème fraîche, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh herbs in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is hot and bubbly.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream has a fat content of around 36%. It is similar in texture to double cream but has a slightly less rich flavor. Heavy cream can be used as a substitute for double cream in most recipes.
Advantages:Widely available, can be whipped to make whipped cream.
Disadvantages:Not as rich as double cream, can separate if overheated.
Recipe:Heavy cream can be used to make a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Combine heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and salt and pepper in a saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is hot and bubbly.
Sour Cream
Sour cream has a fat content of around 18%. It has a tangy flavor and a thick, spoonable texture. Sour cream can be used as a substitute for double cream in baked goods and desserts.
Advantages:Adds a tangy flavor, tenderizes baked goods.
Disadvantages:Not as rich as double cream, can curdle if overheated.
Recipe:Sour cream can be used to make a tangy and moist coffee cake. Combine sour cream, flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda in a bowl. Mix until just combined. Pour into a greased and floured loaf pan. Bake at 175°C (350°F) for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt has a fat content of around 10%. It has a tangy flavor and a thick, creamy texture. Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for double cream in smoothies, dips, and sauces.
Advantages:High in protein, lower in fat than other substitutes.
Disadvantages:May not be as rich as double cream, can have a slightly tangy flavor.
Recipe:Greek yogurt can be used to make a healthy and creamy tzatziki sauce. Combine Greek yogurt, chopped cucumber, garlic, olive oil, and lemon juice in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with pita bread or grilled meats.
Whipping Double Cream
Whipping double cream is a simple process that can elevate desserts and beverages alike. By incorporating air into the cream, you can transform it into a light and fluffy topping or filling. Here’s a step-by-step guide to whipping double cream:
Chilling the Cream
Before whipping, ensure the cream is well-chilled. Cold cream whips more easily and holds its shape better. Place the cream in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before using.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Use a clean bowl and whisk. A metal bowl helps keep the cream cold, while a whisk incorporates air more efficiently than a spoon.
Whipping the Cream, Double cream what is
Start whipping the cream on low speed until it begins to thicken. Gradually increase the speed as the cream thickens. Avoid over-whipping, as the cream can become grainy.
Achieving the Desired Consistency
For soft peaks, stop whipping when the cream forms peaks that gently curl over when the whisk is lifted. For stiff peaks, continue whipping until the peaks stand straight up.
Using Stabilizers and Flavorings
If desired, you can add stabilizers such as gelatin or cornstarch to help the whipped cream hold its shape longer. Flavorings such as vanilla extract or cocoa powder can also be added to enhance the taste.
Double Cream in International Cuisine
Double cream is a versatile ingredient that is used in a variety of dishes around the world. It is often used in desserts, but it can also be used in savory dishes.Double cream is a key ingredient in many traditional British dishes, such as clotted cream and Devonshire cream.
It is also used in many French dishes, such as crème brûlée and mousse au chocolat. In Italy, double cream is used in the popular dessert tiramisu.Double cream is not just limited to Europe. It is also used in many Asian dishes, such as the Indian dessert kulfi and the Thai dessert mango sticky rice.
In the Middle East, double cream is used in the popular dessert knafeh.The use of double cream in international cuisine reflects its versatility and its ability to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. It is a truly global ingredient that is enjoyed by people all over the world.
Examples of Traditional Dishes Incorporating Double Cream
-
-*British
Clotted cream, Devonshire cream, trifle, Eton mess
-*French
Crème brûlée, mousse au chocolat, crème anglaise
-*Italian
Tiramisu, panna cotta, gelato
-*Indian
Kulfi, ras malai
-*Thai
Mango sticky rice, khao neow mamuang
-*Middle Eastern
Knafeh, baklava
Cultural Significance of Double Cream
Double cream is an important ingredient in many cultures around the world. In Britain, it is often associated with luxury and indulgence. In France, it is considered a staple ingredient in many classic desserts. In India, it is used in many religious ceremonies and festivals.The
use of double cream in international cuisine reflects its versatility and its ability to enhance the flavor of a variety of dishes. It is a truly global ingredient that is enjoyed by people all over the world.
Last Point
Whether you’re whipping it into a fluffy cloud or using it to create a creamy sauce, double cream is a culinary treasure that deserves a place in every kitchen. Its rich flavor and versatility make it an essential ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes.
