Can you thicken soup with sour cream?

You can thicken soup with sour cream, but it's not the most ideal method. Here's why:

Pros:

* Adds creaminess and tang: Sour cream can give your soup a rich, creamy texture and a slightly tangy flavor.

* Easy to use: Simply stir in a dollop or two of sour cream towards the end of cooking.

Cons:

* Can curdle: Sour cream is delicate and can curdle if added to a hot soup. To avoid this, add it very slowly while stirring constantly, and only after the soup has cooled slightly.

* Not a strong thickener: Sour cream will add some thickness, but it won't create a very thick consistency.

* May alter the flavor: The tanginess of sour cream can overpower the other flavors in your soup.

Alternatives to thicken soup:

* Flour or cornstarch slurry: This is a classic and reliable method.

* Butter and flour roux: Creates a richer, smoother texture.

* Potato starch: Similar to cornstarch, but yields a slightly less sticky texture.

* Pureed vegetables: This is a healthy and flavorful option.

Tips for thickening soup with sour cream:

* Use cold sour cream: This reduces the risk of curdling.

* Add it slowly: Stir continuously while incorporating the sour cream.

* Don't boil after adding: Heat the soup gently, but don't bring it to a boil after adding sour cream.

Overall, while sour cream can add creaminess to soup, it's not the most effective way to thicken it. For a more reliable and versatile thickener, consider using flour, cornstarch, or a roux.