Crème Fraîche

Crème fraîche [krehm FRESH] is a thick, velvety fermented dairy product that’s common in Europe, where it’s used in everything from pastries to dips and sauces (it can be boiled without curdling). Though it’s similar to sour cream, it’s generally thicker, higher in butterfat, and has a tangier, more complex flavor. You can find it at most grocery stores, but it tends to be costly. I recommend you make it yourself; see instructions.