Lemon Curd Recipe

Lemon curd is a rich, tart spread made with lemons. Other citrus fruits such as limes, oranges, and tangerines can be used to create curds as well, although lemon curd is an enduring favorite. This spread is particularly associated with Great Britain, where it has traditionally accompanied tea since the 18th century. It can be spread on scones, toast, and other foods, and it may also be used as a filling for desserts such as cookies, tarts, and pies.

Lemon Curd:
5 egg yolks - strain yolks to insure smooth curd
3/4 cup sifted granulated sugar
1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice-do not use bottled lemon juice
Finely grated lemon zest
1/4 cup diced unsalted butter - do not use margarine
Use a double boiler to cook curd
Whisk together egg yolks and sugar in the top portion of the double boiler; add lemon zest and lemon juice; whisk thoroughly; set the top portion of the double boiler with ingredients on top of the bottom half of double boiler making sure that the simmering water of the bottom half of the double boiler does not touch the top portion of double boiler. Cook, whisking constantly the curd until mixture is thick and smooth; to test the curd for doneness, the curd should coat the back of a wooden spoon and a clear line should appear when you run your finger down the back of the wooden spoon. Remove from heat; place diced butter into a spouted measuring cup; pour hot curd into measuring cup; strain with rubber spatula, allow butter to melt in curd; after butter has melted, whisk briskly until curd is velvelty smooth; allow to cool, pour into sterilized 8 ounce jars, seal, refrigerate...Enjoy!!

Lemon curd will keep about a week in the fridge, but it will freeze well for up to three months.