Clotted Cream

Description

Clotted cream, a heavenly indulgence, is a thick, rich, and velvety cream with a texture akin to soft butter. Its colour ranges from pale yellow to almost white, with a smooth, creamy top layer that is delightfully crumbly and a lusciously thick cream underneath. The flavor is a divine blend of sweet and savory, with a hint of nuttiness, and a full-bodied richness that lingers on the palate. This cream is unique in its production process, which involves heating it indirectly using steam or a water bath, unlike the direct heating used for other types of cream. This slow, gentle cooking process allows the cream to thicken and develop its characteristic crust.

Primary Uses

Clotted cream is an essential component in many traditional British dishes. It is famously served with scones and strawberry jam in the quintessential British cream tea, but its uses extend beyond this. It can be used to thicken soups, sauces, and custards, or spooned onto desserts like apple pie or fresh berries. In the county of Cornwall, England, clotted cream is even used to make ice cream, imparting a uniquely rich flavor and smooth texture. Aside from culinary uses, clotted cream has been used in traditional medicine to soothe burns and skin ailments due to its high fat content.

History

Clotted cream, or "clouted" cream as it was originally known, has a storied history dating back to the 11th century in Southwest England, specifically in the counties of Devon and Cornwall. It is said that the Phoenicians brought the technique of making clotted cream to England when they traded tin with the locals. Over the centuries, clotted cream has become a cherished part of British culinary tradition, symbolizing the warmth and comfort of home. It is even the subject of a friendly rivalry between Devon and Cornwall, with each county claiming to make the best clotted cream and having a different way of serving it in cream tea.

Nutritional Information

Clotted cream is a decadent treat, and like all indulgences, it should be enjoyed in moderation. It is high in calories and saturated fat, but it is also a source of essential nutrients. It provides vitamin A, which supports eye health, and calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth. It also contains a small amount of protein. Compared to other creams, clotted cream has a higher fat content, which gives it its thick consistency and rich flavor. Despite its high fat content, when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, clotted cream can be part of a healthy lifestyle.