Ingredients with Measurements:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup kumis (fermented mare's milk)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
Special equipment needed:
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and kumis.
2. Using an electric mixer or whisk, beat the mixture until smooth and well-combined.
3. Add the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to the mixture and continue to beat until fully incorporated.
4. Taste the spread and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Transfer the spread to a serving bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Refrigeration time: 30 minutes
5. Temperature:
Refrigerate the spread until ready to serve.
Serving size:
Makes approximately 1 cup of spread, or 8 servings.
Nutritional information:
Per serving (2 tbsp):
Calories: 90
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 130mg
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If kumis is not available, you can substitute with kefir or yogurt.
- You can adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more or less salt, pepper, garlic, or onion powder.
Variations:
- Add chopped fresh herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley for extra flavor and color.
- Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for a tangy and cheesy twist.
- Add some chopped nuts or dried fruits for texture and sweetness.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to avoid lumps in the spread.
- Use a high-quality kumis for the best flavor and texture.
- Serve the spread with crackers, bread, or vegetables for dipping.
Storage instructions:
- Store the leftover spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
- The spread is best served cold, so there is no need to reheat it.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the spread in a decorative bowl or on a platter with crackers, bread, or vegetables arranged around it.
- Garnish the spread with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for color.
Garnishes:
- Fresh herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley
- Paprika or chili flakes
- Chopped nuts or dried fruits
Pairings:
- Crackers
- Bread
- Vegetables such as carrots, celery, or cucumber
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh salad
- Grilled vegetables
- Roasted potatoes
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the spread is too thick, you can add a little bit of milk or cream to thin it out.
- If the spread is too thin, you can add more cream cheese to thicken it.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use clean utensils and surfaces when preparing the spread.
- Keep the spread refrigerated until ready to serve.
Food history:
- Kumis is a traditional fermented drink made from mare's milk, popular in Central Asia and Mongolia.
Flavor profiles:
- The spread has a tangy and slightly sour flavor from the kumis, balanced by the creaminess of the cream cheese and the savory notes of the spices.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the spread as an appetizer or snack at a party or gathering.
- Use the spread as a sandwich or bagel spread for a unique twist on a classic.
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