Recipe: Lemon Curd with Chunks of Fresh Strawberries

Recipe: Lemon Curd with Chunks of Fresh Strawberries

Lemon curd with chunks of fresh strawberries is a delightful dessert that combines the tangy, creamy richness of lemon curd with the sweet, juicy freshness of strawberries. This dessert is not only a treat for your taste buds but also for your eyes, with its vibrant yellow color and the burst of red from the strawberries. It’s the perfect dessert for spring and summer gatherings or just as a refreshing snack.

Making lemon curd from scratch is easier than you think, and this recipe adds a twist by incorporating fresh strawberries for an extra layer of flavor. You can serve it as a topping for cakes, pastries, or enjoy it on its own with a spoon. This simple yet indulgent dessert is sure to be a favorite!

Ingredients

• 3 large lemons (for juice and zest)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 4 large egg yolks
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cubed
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped into small chunks
• Optional: additional lemon zest for garnish

Equipment:

• Small saucepan
• Whisk
• Fine-mesh sieve
• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula
• Serving bowls or jars

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Curd

1. Zest the Lemons
   Start by zesting the lemons to collect the bright yellow peel. Make sure to avoid the white pith, as it can be bitter. You’ll need about 1 tablespoon of lemon zest.

2. Juice the Lemons
   After zesting, juice the lemons until you have about 1/2 cup of fresh lemon juice. Set the juice and zest aside.

3. Mix the Egg Yolks and Sugar
   In a medium heatproof bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is smooth and slightly pale. This step helps to break down the yolks and incorporate the sugar thoroughly.

4. Cook the Lemon Curd
   In a small saucepan, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring it to a simmer. Slowly pour the hot lemon mixture into the egg yolk mixture while whisking continuously to avoid curdling the eggs.

5. Thicken the Curd
   Once the mixture is combined, pour it back into the saucepan over low heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula, making sure to reach the edges of the pan to prevent the curd from sticking. The mixture should begin to thicken after 5-7 minutes.

6. Add Butter and Vanilla
   Once the curd has thickened enough to coat the back of a spoon, remove it from the heat and stir in the cubed butter and vanilla extract. Stir until the butter is completely melted and incorporated into the curd.

7. Strain the Curd
   For a silky smooth texture, pass the curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any egg bits or zest. This step is optional but will ensure a perfectly smooth curd.

8. Cool the Curd
   Let the lemon curd cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This will allow it to continue thickening as it cools.

Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries

1. Chop the Strawberries
   While the lemon curd is cooling, wash and chop the fresh strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. This will allow the strawberries to be evenly distributed throughout the curd, adding fresh texture and sweetness.

Step 3: Assemble the Lemon Curd with Strawberries

1. Combine the Lemon Curd and Strawberries
   Once the lemon curd has cooled and thickened, gently fold in the chopped strawberries. The berries will add a burst of color and sweetness to the tangy curd, making it even more delightful.

2. Chill the Mixture
   Transfer the mixture to serving bowls, jars, or a large dish. Cover with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld together and the curd set.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

1. Garnish
   Before serving, you can garnish the lemon curd with a little extra lemon zest or even more fresh strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation.

2. Serve
   Serve the lemon curd with strawberries chilled, as a dessert or topping for cakes, scones, or pastries. It can also be enjoyed on its own with a spoon for a sweet and tangy treat.

Tips and Variations

1. Vary the Fruit
   While this recipe uses strawberries, you can easily substitute other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or even diced peaches for a different flavor profile.

2. Add a Splash of Liqueur
   For an adult twist, you can add a splash of limoncello or a fruit liqueur to the curd before cooling it. This adds a layer of depth to the flavor.

3. Vegan Option
   To make a vegan version, you can substitute the eggs with a mixture of cornstarch and plant-based milk, such as almond or coconut milk. Use dairy-free butter for the creamy texture.

4. Use the Curd as a Filling
   This lemon curd with strawberries can also be used as a filling for tarts, cakes, or cupcakes. Its sweet and tart balance will make any pastry more exciting.

Health Benefits

1. Lemons
   Lemons are packed with vitamin C, an essential nutrient for boosting immunity and promoting skin health. They also aid in digestion and provide antioxidants.

2. Strawberries
   Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

3. Homemade Dessert
   Making lemon curd at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier and fresher version of the store-bought variety, free from artificial additives and preservatives.

Conclusion

Lemon curd with chunks of strawberries is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, with a smooth and creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit. This dessert is versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for other desserts like cakes, tarts, and scones. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing summer treat or a delicious way to end a meal, this lemon curd with strawberries will surely delight your taste buds.

Try this recipe today and enjoy the bright, vibrant flavors of lemon and strawberries in every bite!