How to Make Lemon Curd Without a Double Boiler for BBQ Lovers

By Avi Green August 05, 2024

If you're a barbecue enthusiast, you might wonder why you'd want to make lemon curd. Picture this: after a delightful BBQ session, you want to whip up a tangy dessert to round off your meal. Lemon curd is perfect for that, and the best part is that you don't need a double boiler to do it!

how to make lemon curd without a double boiler

Why Skip the Double Boiler?

Double boilers are great but not always necessary. You can achieve the same results without the added hassle and specialized equipment. Plus, for those who love BBQ, the simpler the method, the better. You already fuss over maintaining the perfect grill temperature; let's keep this part straightforward.

What You'll Need

Ingredients

3 large eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
Zest of 2 lemons
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Pinch of salt

Equipment

Heavy-bottomed saucepan
Whisk
Fine-mesh sieve
Spatula
Bowl and plastic wrap

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together the eggs, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, and a pinch of salt. If you love BBQ, think of this as marinating your meat; you want everything well-mixed and harmonious.

Step 2: Heat the Mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Continue to whisk the mixture constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. You'll notice the mixture begins to thicken. This step is akin to keeping an eye on your grill, making sure nothing burns.

Step 3: Add Butter

Once the mixture thickens, start adding the butter a piece at a time. Continue whisking until the butter is fully incorporated. Think of this step as adding your BBQ sauce towards the end of grillingyou're adding that final touch of flavor.

Step 4: Strain the Mixture

Pour the lemon curd through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl. This removes any lumps and gives you a silky smooth texture. This is like resting your grilled meat; patience here pays off in taste and texture.

Step 5: Cool and Store

Cover the surface of the curd with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming. Allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Your lemon curd can last up to two weeks in the fridge. It's a delectable sidekick to your BBQ spread.