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Vegan Mexican Crema (Tofu-Based)

When you think of Mexican food, what comes to mind? I picture a delicious dish topped with a dollop of cream. It's a common finishing touch on enchiladas, quesadillas, and tacos—Mexican crema. That's why I decided to create my own vegan version of Mexican crema.

A creamy, beige tofu crema is being poured from a blender into a speckled ceramic cup. A wooden spoon rests beside the cup on a white surface. The liquid forms gentle swirls as it fills the cup in this bright, minimalistic scene.

About this recipe

This vegan Mexican crema is a game-changer for anyone who loves authentic Mexican flavors but wants to keep things dairy-free. Made with only **4 ingredients—silken tofu, lime juice, shallots, and salt—**this crema is bright, creamy, and unbelievably easy to make. Perfect for tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas, or even roasted veggies.

The first time I made it, my daughter Sofia said, “Wow… this tastes like Mexico!” And that was it—everyone started putting it on everything for the whole week.

Why you are going to love this

  • Authentic flavor: Tangy, fresh, and just like crema should taste.
  • No soaking, no fuss: Ready in 5 minutes—no cashew soaking needed.
  • Healthy and light: Lower fat and calories than dairy or nut-based cremas.
  • Versatile: Great on tacos, bowls, soups, or as a dip.
A wooden plate holds a block of tofu for tofu crema on a white cloth, two halved limes, and a peeled shallot. A black bowl with spices and a red bowl with sliced green chilies sit nearby, hinting at how to make vegan crema.

Ingredient notes

  • Tofu: Use silken or soft tofu for a smooth, creamy texture. Firm tofu works too—just add a little more water when blending.
  • Lime juice: Freshly squeezed adds the best tang. Lemon works in a pinch.
  • Shallots: These bring in a mild, almost sweet onion flavor.
  • Salt: Start with a small pinch and adjust to taste.
Overhead view of a blender with a small amount of creamy white dairy-free crema inside. Next to the blender is an empty, speckled beige ceramic cup and a wooden spoon, all placed on a light-colored textured surface.

How to make vegan crema with tofu

  • Add tofu, lime juice, chopped shallots, and salt to a blender.
  • Blend until completely smooth and creamy.
  • Adjust the seasoning and add a splash of water to thin it out.
  • Store in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Home cook to home cook tips

  • If using firm tofu, blend with 2–3 tablespoons of water for better consistency.
  • Want more tang? Add extra lime or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
  • For smoky flavor, add a pinch of chipotle powder or smoked paprika.
  • Add lime zest for a citrus-forward twist.

Frequently asked questions

A rustic, speckled beige cup filled with creamy tofu crema sits on a folded white cloth atop a dark round tray. In front, a wooden spoon rests on the tray, holding a dollop of tofu crema. The background is white and softly lit.

How to use it

  • This vegan sour cream is super thick with lots of flavors. It tastes delicious on quesadillas, enchiladas, sopes, tacos, guacamole, and even salads
  • This vegan Mexican recipe is versatile and can be used on various dishes. Add a dollop to your vegan burrito bowls, salads, or tacos. It also works well with vegan recipes like roasted vegetables or grilled corn.
A creamy, beige tofu crema is being poured from a blender into a speckled ceramic cup. A wooden spoon rests beside the cup on a white surface. The liquid forms gentle swirls as it fills the cup in this bright, minimalistic scene.

Vegan Mexican Crema (Tofu-Based)

Alejandra Graf
When you think of Mexican food, what comes to mind? I picture a delicious dish topped with a dollop of cream. It's a common finishing touch on enchiladas, quesadillas, and tacos—Mexican crema. That's why I decided to create my own vegan version of Mexican crema.
4.75 de 16 votos
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Course Basics
Cuisine Mexican vegan food
Servings 1 cup
Calories 207 kcal

Equipment

Ingredients
  

  • 7 oz firm or silk tofu
  • 1 lime – it’s juice
  • ½ shallot
  • 1 tsp salt
  • one pinch of ground cumin optional

Instructions
 

  • Blend all of the ingredients. If you need extra liquid, add one or 2 tablespoons of water.

Notes

  • This crema will last in the fridge for 3 to 4 days in a tightly sealed jar.
  • If you don’t have shallots, you can substitute with a small piece of onion and a little bit of garlic.

Nutrition

Calories: 207kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 19gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 1gSodium: 2337mgPotassium: 191mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4gVitamin C: 58.2mgCalcium: 276mgIron: 3mg
Keyword tofu sour cream, vegan crema, vegan sour cream

information

Nutritional information of this recipe is only an estimate, the accuracy for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

Did you make this recipe?Tag @piloncilloyvainilla on Instagram and hashtag it #alecooks so we can all see your creations.
4.75 from 16 votes (11 ratings without comment)
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