Clotted Cream

Clotted Cream: A Culinary Delight from the West Country

In the verdant pastures of Devon and Cornwall, England, lies a culinary treasure that has tantalized taste buds for centuries: clotted cream. This thick, golden-hued cream is a testament to the region's rich dairy heritage and a beloved ingredient in countless desserts and pastries.

What is Clotted Cream?

Clotted cream is a type of unpasteurized cream that is made by heating whole milk to a specific temperature and then allowing it to cool slowly. During this process, the cream thickens and forms a thick, clotted layer on the surface. This layer is then skimmed off and packaged.

How is Clotted Cream Made?

The traditional method of making clotted cream is a labor-intensive process that requires patience and skill. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Heat the milk: Whole milk is heated in a shallow pan to a temperature of around 82-85°C (180-185°F).

2. Cool the milk: The heated milk is then poured into shallow dishes and allowed to cool slowly at room temperature for 12-24 hours.

3. Form the clots: As the milk cools, the cream rises to the surface and forms a thick layer of clots.

4. Skim the cream: The clotted cream is carefully skimmed off the surface using a slotted spoon.

5. Package the cream: The clotted cream is packaged in jars or tubs and refrigerated.

Characteristics of Clotted Cream

Clotted cream is known for its unique characteristics:

Uses of Clotted Cream

Clotted cream is a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

Protected Designation of Origin (PDO)

Clotted cream from Devon and Cornwall has been awarded Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union. This means that only clotted cream produced in these regions using traditional methods can be labeled as such.

Conclusion

Clotted cream is a culinary delight that embodies the rich dairy heritage of Devon and Cornwall. Its unique texture, flavor, and versatility make it a beloved ingredient in countless desserts and pastries. Whether you enjoy it spread on a warm scone or as a topping for a fruit tart, clotted cream is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.