One of the most known and go-to dressings is ranch dressing. Many have come to known and love this simple dish as it adds delicious flavors and can easily go with any other type of dish.
Although it is simple and quick to make, there are still instances that you will end up with a consistency far from what you expect. This goes the same with ranch dressing that you often find on grocery shelves. Thankfully, this article will teach you ways on how to thicken ranch dressing, plus so much more.
Ranch Dressing
This well-loved dressing was discovered and developed by Steve Henson back in the early 1950s. Originally, Henson was in the plumbing business that has his success to which he was able to retire at the early age of 35.
It was during this time that Henson purchased the Sweetwater Ranch, which he renamed as Hidden Valley Ranch, and began his search for a different type of livelihood. Henson then started serving his creation, and his dressing recipe became an instant hit.
The popularity of his dressing reached a new level when his friend and then owner of Cold Spring Tavern, Audrey Ovington became his first commercial customer. By 1957, a packed mix version to make the dressing was being offered in stores.
This humble beginning was the start of the now infamous and household staple ranch dressing. Ever since then, ranch dressing has been produced by various food brands like Hidden Valley, Kraft, Lifehouse, Kroger, and many others.
How To Thicken Ranch Dressing
It is not always that we end up with the perfect consistency of ranch dressing which can be a bit of a downer. However, you can also find ways in order to fix it. Here are several hacks that you can use to thicken ranch dressing.
1. Mayonnaise
To increase the thickness of your ranch dressing, you would need something like mayonnaise to fix it. Mayonnaise, by nature, has a very thick consistency and is very convenient to use. You can add 60g of mayonnaise for every 100ml of ranch dressing to achieve a thicker consistency.
2. Cream cheese
Another alternative is using cream cheese. Since cream cheese already has a thick texture, you will need a small amount of it to mix into your ranch dressing to make it thicker. 15g of cream cheese per 100 ml of ranch dressing will definitely do the trick. Plus, this adds a hint of cheesy flavor to the dressing which is a bonus.
3. Xanthan gum
Many may not be aware of what this ingredient is and how to use it but it is deemed effective in achieving a thicker consistency when added to ranch dressing. Best of all is that it is tasteless so you can enjoy the flavor of your ranch dressing fully. You just need to add a ¼ teaspoon of xanthan gum for every cup of ranch dressing and you’re good to go.
4. Greek yogurt
A healthier alternative that you can use if you do not have mayonnaise, is Greek yogurt. Like mayonnaise, Greek yogurt also has a thick texture that can help thicken ranch dressing. 70g of Greek yogurt is enough per 100ml of ranch dressing to make it thick.
5. Sour cream
Another food item that is similar to mayonnaise and Greek yogurt is sour cream if used to help thicken ranch dressing. However, it is slightly thicker and enhances the sour flavor of the ranch dressing. For this reason, it is better to add a small amount first, and then give it a taste if it is to your liking. Generally, 50g of sour cream should be good enough per 100ml of ranch dressing.
6. Corn starch
A well-known agent used for thickening sauces is corn starch. In the same way, it is also an effective way to thicken ranch dressing. Corn starch, like the xanthan gum, is also tasteless and will not affect the flavor of the ranch dressing.
Take half a teaspoon of the starch and add it to your ranch dressing. Whisk them together very well and let the mixture sit in the fridge for about 2 hours. Once the corn starch incorporates into the ranch dressing, you will see a thicker consistency.
7. Oil
Adding oil to ranch dressing can also make a difference in its consistency. Since oil is thick, it could also be an alternative that you can use. However, mixing oil with ranch dressing can be a challenge which is why you will need an electric hand mixer or blender.
Using a hand whisk or a spoon to incorporate the oil into the ranch dressing may not work well. Another thing you need to be cautious about is the amount of oil you add to the ranch dressing. Adding too much can alter the taste of the ranch dressing. It would be helpful to taste the mixture before adding more oil.