we’ve all been there. You open the fridge, and inspiration strikes… a blank. But what if I told you two seemingly ordinary ingredients – 1 lemon and 1 egg – could unlock a culinary treasure chest? Well, buckle up, because today we’re revealing a secret recipe that most people wouldn’t guess: Lemon Curd!
Yes, you read that right. This sunshine-y spread, perfect for topping scones, filling tarts, or dolloping onto yogurt, requires minimal ingredients and delivers maximum flavor. Here’s the magic:
Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 1 large lemon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Method:
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Zest & Squeeze: Using a fine-mesh grater, zest the yellow rind of your lemon. Be careful to avoid the white pith, which can be bitter. Then, juice the lemon, aiming for about 3 tablespoons of juice.
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Whisk Away: In a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (a double boiler), whisk together the egg, lemon zest, juice, and sugar. Make sure the water in the pot isn’t touching the bottom of the bowl.
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Low & Slow: Whisk constantly over medium-low heat until the mixture thickens considerably. This can take 10-15 minutes, so be patient! You’ll know it’s done when the mixture coats the back of a spoon and leaves a distinct trail when you draw your finger through it.
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Butter Up: Once thickened, remove the bowl from the heat and whisk in the softened butter, one tablespoon at a time, until fully incorporated.
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Golden Goodness: Strain the curd through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps. This will ensure a smooth and silky texture. Your lemon curd is ready to enjoy warm or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Secret Weapon Status Unlocked!
Now you possess the knowledge to transform a simple lemon and egg into a delightful treat. Spread it on toast, use it as a cake filling, or get creative! This recipe is a secret weapon for a reason – it’s incredibly versatile, budget-friendly, and oh-so-delicious.
Bonus Tip: Feeling fancy? For a richer flavor, add a pinch of salt to the curd after removing it from the heat.
So, the next time you find yourself with a lone lemon and egg, don’t reach for the frying pan. Reach for this secret recipe and unlock a world of culinary possibilities!
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