When most people think of cream chargers, they picture fluffy whipped cream topping a dessert. However, these handy little gas canisters have far more potential than just sweet treats! Cream chargers, which contain nitrous oxide (N2O), can be used to aerate and infuse a variety of ingredients, creating unique textures and flavors for savory dishes, cocktails, and more.
In this blog, we’ll explore five creative ways to use cream chargers beyond desserts and provide step-by-step guides to get the best results.
1. Flavored Butters and Oils
Cream chargers can be used to quickly infuse oils and butters with intense flavors, making them perfect for cooking and garnishing.
How to Do It:
- Pour melted butter or oil into a whipped cream dispenser.
- Add your desired herbs, spices, or other flavoring ingredients (such as garlic, chili, or citrus zest).
- Charge the dispenser with a cream charger and shake well.
- Allow the infusion to take place for a few minutes before releasing the pressure.
- Strain the infused oil or butter and use it in your cooking.
2. Aerated Sauces and Foams
Elevate your dishes with light and airy sauces or foams that add an elegant touch to your plate.
How to Do It:
- Prepare a sauce base using stock, cream, or pureed vegetables.
- Strain the mixture to remove any solid particles.
- Pour the sauce into a whipped cream dispenser.
- Charge it with a cream charger and shake vigorously.
- Dispense directly onto the dish for a light and foamy texture.
3. Quick Pickling
Nitrous oxide speeds up the pickling process by forcing the brine into vegetables, making them crisp and flavorful in a fraction of the time.
How to Do It:
- Prepare a pickling brine with vinegar, sugar, and spices.
- Place sliced vegetables (like cucumbers, onions, or radishes) into a whipped cream dispenser.
- Pour in the brine, ensuring the vegetables are fully submerged.
- Charge with a cream charger and shake.
- Let it sit for a few minutes before releasing the pressure.
- Enjoy instant pickled vegetables that would normally take days to prepare!
4. Infused Cocktails and Spirits
Take your mixology game to the next level by using cream chargers to infuse cocktails or spirits with bold flavors in minutes.
How to Do It:
- Add your choice of alcohol to a whipped cream dispenser.
- Include fresh herbs, spices, fruits, or even coffee beans for infusion.
- Charge with a cream charger and shake well.
- Let it rest for a couple of minutes before releasing the pressure.
- Strain and serve in your favorite cocktail.
5. Fluffy Eggs and Savory Mousses
Cream chargers can transform eggs and mousses into light, airy delights that are perfect for brunch or gourmet dishes.
How to Do It:
- Whisk together eggs with milk or cream and seasonings.
- Strain the mixture and pour it into a whipped cream dispenser.
- Charge with a cream charger and shake thoroughly.
- Dispense directly onto a pan to make incredibly fluffy scrambled eggs.
- For savory mousses, mix pureed vegetables, cheese, or meats with a stabilizer (like gelatin) and follow the same steps.
Cream chargers are more versatile than most people realize! Whether you’re making infused oils, foams, pickled vegetables, or innovative cocktails, these little canisters can take your culinary skills to the next level. Try experimenting with different ingredients and techniques to see how they can enhance your favorite savory dishes!