Description
This Lime Curd is a tangy, smooth spread made from fresh lime juice, zest, sugar, egg yolks, and butter. Perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, or adding a burst of citrus flavor to desserts, this bright and creamy curd is cooked gently over simmering water to achieve the perfect silky texture.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4-5 limes)
- 1 tablespoon lime zest
- 4 large egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
- Mix sugar and lime zest: Combine the lime zest and granulated sugar in a bowl. Massage them together with your fingers for 1-2 minutes to release the lime’s essential oils, enhancing the flavor of the curd.
- Combine lime juice and egg yolks: Add the freshly squeezed lime juice and egg yolks to the sugar and zest mixture. Whisk thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Cook over simmering water: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Cook the mixture, whisking occasionally, until it thickens considerably and coats the back of a spoon, approximately 10 minutes. This gentle heat prevents curdling and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Strain and cool: Remove the bowl from heat and strain the curd through a fine mesh sieve to remove any cooked egg bits. Let the curd cool for about 10 minutes to slightly thicken before adding butter.
- Add butter: Add the cubed unsalted butter to the warm curd and stir until completely melted and fully incorporated, giving the curd a rich and creamy texture.
- Add optional coloring: If desired, add a drop or two of green food coloring to enhance the lime color without affecting the flavor.
- Transfer and cover: Transfer the curd to a clean jar. Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming while it cools completely.
- Refrigerate until use: Chill the curd in the refrigerator until ready to use. It will thicken more as it cools and should be used within one to two weeks.
Notes
- Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best bright and authentic flavor.
- Cooking over simmering water ensures gentle heat and prevents curdling of the eggs.
- The curd can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, be sure to strain the curd thoroughly.
- Great as a spread on toast, scones, or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Sauce/Spread
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American