Sour cream is a trending ingredient used in different several cuisines. A lot of people add this ingredient to their dishes, but don't know the nutritional value of sour cream. Did you know that 2 tbsp (26 g) of sour cream contains 50 calories? It's vital to know the calorie content of each ingredient we add to our meals.
Sour cream is rich in essential vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E. It also contains fat, protein, and calcium. Although it contains some nutrients, sour cream is high in calories, so it's essential to consume it in moderation. Let's dig in and explore more about sour cream.
In this article, we'll discover the nutritional facts of sour cream and compare it to other foods. Additionally, we'll discuss the possible health benefits of sour cream. Finally, we'll share with you how to make sour cream at home.
Sour cream: nutritional facts
Sour cream is a dairy product made by fermenting regular cream with lactic acid bacteria. It is commonly used as a condiment and a baking ingredient. Here are the nutritional facts of sour cream per 2 tablespoons (26 g) serving:
- calories: 50
- Total Fat: 5 grams
- Cholesterol: 20 milligrams
- Sodium: 15 milligrams
- Carbohydrates: 1 gram
- Protein: 1 gram
- Calcium: 2% of the Daily Value (DV)
The nutritional value of sour cream can vary depending on the brand, but generally, it is high in fat and calories.
What is the serving size of sour cream?
The standard serving size of sour cream is 2 tablespoons (26 g). However, the amount you use can vary depending on the type of dish you're making or your personal preferences. Some recipes may require more or less sour cream, so it's essential to read the recipe carefully to decide how much to use.
Is sour cream high in calories?
Yes, sour cream is high in calories. The 2 tbsp (26 g) serving of sour cream contains 50 calories. It is essential to consume sour cream in moderation, especially if you're watching your calorie intake.
How many calories does a tablespoon of sour cream contain?
One tablespoon (13 g) of sour cream contains 25 calories.
What is the nutritional value of sour cream?
Sour cream is a good source of essential nutrients including vitamins and minerals. These essential nutrients include:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
However, sour cream is also high in
calories and fat, so it's essential to consume it in moderation.
Calories in sour cream vs yogurt: a comparison
Yogurt and sour cream are both dairy products that have distinct flavors and textures. When comparing the two, yogurt is generally lower in calories and fat than sour cream. Here's a comparison of the nutritional value of yogurt and sour cream per 2 tablespoons (26 g) serving:
- Calories in yogurt: 20
- Calories in sour cream: 50
- Fat in yogurt: 0 grams
- Fat in sour cream: 5 grams
- Protein in yogurt: 1 gram
- Protein in sour cream: 1 gram
- Calcium in yogurt: 2% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Calcium in sour cream: 2% of the Daily Value (DV)
When it comes to calorie and fat content, yogurt is the better choice. However, sour cream is richer and thicker, making it a better option for dips, dressings, and baking.
How can you reduce the calorie content in sour cream?
You can reduce the calorie content in sour cream by opting for low-fat or fat-free varieties. These versions of sour cream have the same flavor and texture as regular sour cream but with fewer calories and less fat. Another option is to use Greek yogurt as a substitute for sour cream in recipes. Greek yogurt has a similar texture and taste to sour cream but is lower in calories and fat.
Are there any health benefits of sour cream?
Sour cream has some potential health benefits, including:
- Source of calcium: Sour cream is a good source of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Probiotics: Sour cream contains live cultures, that can help improve digestion and boost the immune system.
- Antioxidants: Sour cream is a source of vitamin A and vitamin E, both of which are antioxidants that help protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Despite these potential benefits, it's essential to consume sour cream in moderation due to its high calorie and fat content.
Sour Cream: a versatile ingredient
Sour cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It's commonly used in dips, dressings, and sauces, adding a tangy and creamy flavor to meals. Additionally, sour cream can be used as a substitute in baking recipes, adding moisture and richness to cakes and bread. Try incorporating sour cream into your favorite recipes to add flavor and richness to your meals!
How to make sour cream at home
Making sour cream at home is easier than you might think! All you need is heavy cream and a starter culture, such as buttermilk or plain yogurt. Here's how to make sour cream at home:
- Pour 1 cup of heavy cream into a mixing bowl.
- Add 1 tablespoon of buttermilk or plain yogurt to the bowl and stir to combine.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 24 to 48 hours. The longer you let it sit, the thicker and tangier the sour cream will become.
- After 24 to 48 hours, stir the sour cream and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Homemade sour cream is fresh, tangy, and delicious, and it's a fun way to experiment in the kitchen!
Sour cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. From dips to dressings to baking, it adds a tangy and creamy flavor to meals. Try incorporating sour cream into your favorite recipes to add flavor and richness to your meals!
FAQs about Sour Cream
1. What is sour cream?
Sour cream is a dairy product made by fermenting heavy cream with lactic acid bacteria. It has a tangy flavor and creamy texture, which makes it a popular ingredient in various dishes.
2. What are the uses of sour cream?
Sour cream is a versatile ingredient that can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. It is commonly used as a topping for baked potatoes, tacos, and nachos. It can also be used as a base for dips, sauces, and dressings. In baked goods, sour cream is often used to add moisture and richness to the recipe.
3. How many calories are in sour cream?
Two tablespoons (26g) of sour cream contain around 50 calories. The calorie content may vary depending on the brand and type of sour cream.
4. Is sour cream healthy?
Sour cream is high in fat and calories, so it should be consumed in moderation. However, it also contains some beneficial nutrients such as calcium and protein. Choosing low-fat or fat-free sour cream can be a healthier option.
5. Can I substitute sour cream with any other ingredient?
Yes, there are several substitutes for sour cream, such as Greek yogurt, buttermilk, cream cheese, or cottage cheese. These substitutes can be used in recipes that call for sour cream to achieve a similar flavor and consistency.