I honestly think i could eat lemon curd on its own and the other day was sorely tempted! My neighbour is turning 50 next week and i have decided to make her a special cake. Without ruining what i will be making, i can say that my curd will be used in my sandwich cake. However, i will not be using my favourite lemon, but creating orange curd.
This curd is very sweet and unless you have a very sweet tooth you may not wish to spread it on your crumpets in the morning! Despite this, it would be amazing drizzled over a pavola with mulled autumn fruits or poured over rum ice-cream. As with all my recipes, it is incredibly easy to make and a great way to use up oranges and lemons nearing the end of their shelf life.
The zest and juice 2 large oranges
The zest and juice of 1 medium lemon
225g caster sugar
110g unsalted butter
3 large beaten egg yolks
This makes 450g (1lb)
1. Heat the sugar, butter, orange juice and zest and lemon in a glass bowl over a simmering saucepan of water. Remember to not overfill your saucepan with water, you do not want the bottom of your glass bowl to be in contact with the water.
2. Once the sugar and butter have melted, add your egg yolks and constantly whisk your mixture to prevent any egg cooking in lumps, ensuring a smooth consistency to your curd. You will find that the mixture becomes slightly creamy and lighter in colour as the mixture begins to thicken. You will need to continue to whisk your mixture for approximately 20 minutes or until the mixture coats the back of a spoon.
3. Once you're mixture reaches the right consistency, remove from the heat and strain through a sift. Now pour into a jam jar and once cooled secure the lid and place in a fridge to set. This curd will keep up to a month so once put in a fridge do not forget to label and date.
Last Christmas i decided to make Lemon Curd, Apple and Cranberry Chutney and ginger and Chili Jam for friends and family. As you can see this does not take long to make but with home made labels and jam covers it would be a really lovely gift in a hamper for friends and family.
