⭐ Silken Tofu with Lemon Juice (Best Dairy-Free Option)
1/4 cup blended silken tofu + 1 tsp lemon juice per 1/4 cup sour creamSilken tofu has a smooth, creamy texture that can replicate the mouthfeel of sour cream when blended. Adding lemon juice introduces acidity, which is critical for balancing the richness of beef stew.
Blend tofu thoroughly with lemon juice before stirring into the stew at the end of cooking to prevent curdling. This substitute is excellent for those avoiding dairy.
The final dish will have a mild tang and creamy texture, though the flavor is more neutral and less complex than sour cream, so seasoning adjustments may be needed.