Explanation of "Cream Cheese"
Definition:
Cream cheese is a soft, smooth cheese made from a mixture of milk and cream. It has a mild, slightly tangy flavor and is often used as a spread or in cooking.
Usage Instructions:
As a Spread: Cream cheese is commonly used as a spread on bagels, toast, or crackers.
In Cooking: It's also used in recipes for desserts, like cheesecake, or in savory dishes like dips.
Example:
Advanced Usage:
In Recipes: Cream cheese can be whipped to make it even smoother and can be combined with other ingredients to create dips or frosting for cakes.
In Culinary Terms: When a recipe calls for "cream cheese," it usually means the regular kind, but there are variations like flavored cream cheese (with herbs, fruits, or spices).
Word Variants:
Flavored Cream Cheese: Cream cheese that has added ingredients to enhance its flavor, like chives, strawberries, or herbs.
Low-Fat Cream Cheese: A version with less fat, often used for healthier recipes.
Different Meanings:
Cream Cheese Frosting: A type of frosting made with cream cheese, often used on cakes and cupcakes.
Cream Cheese Dip: A mixture of cream cheese and other ingredients, often served as a snack with vegetables or chips.
Synonyms:
Soft cheese
Spreadable cheese
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "cream cheese," you might hear phrases that describe spreading or mixing, such as: - Spread thin: To use something (like resources or time) in too many places. - Mix it up: To combine different elements or flavors, which can apply when using cream cheese in recipes.
Summary:
Cream cheese is a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes, known for its creamy texture and mild flavor.