Experience the tropical delight of a Mango Curd Tart, where a crisp, buttery crust meets a luscious, tangy mango filling. This dessert offers a perfect balance of sweetness and zest, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients:

1.For the Salted Coconut Graham Cracker Crust:

1½ cups graham cracker crumbs
1 teaspoon kosher salt
⅓ cup brown sugar
½ cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
9 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

2.For the Mango Curd:

1¼ cups canned mango puree (Kesar mango pulp recommended)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
⅓ cup granulated sugar
Zest and juice of 2 large limes
Pinch of kosher salt
6 large egg yolks
4 additional tablespoons unsalted butter

3.For Garnish (optional):

½ batch Swiss meringue
2 tablespoons coconut chips or flakes
1 lime, sliced into wedges
1 mango, thinly sliced

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, kosher salt, brown sugar, and toasted shredded coconut.
Stir in the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press the mixture firmly into a 9-inch tart pan, ensuring an even layer on the bottom and sides.
Place the tart pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes.
Remove from the oven and, if necessary, adjust the crust’s shape while it’s still warm. Set the crust aside to cool.
Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
In a heatproof bowl, combine mango puree, lime zest, lime juice, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, pinch of kosher salt, and egg yolks.
Place the bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl does not touch the water.
Whisk the mixture continuously for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens to a custard-like consistency.
Remove from heat and whisk in the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until smooth.
Pour the mango curd into the cooled crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the oven at 325°F (163°C) for 15-17 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Allow the tart to cool to room temperature.
Once cooled, refrigerate the tart for at least 4 hours or overnight to set completely.
Before serving, garnish the tart with toasted Swiss meringue, coconut chips, lime wedges, and mango slices as desired.
Slice and serve chilled.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: Approximately 410 kcal
Carbohydrates: 45 g
Protein: 5 g
Fat: 23 g
Saturated Fat: 14 g
Cholesterol: 135 mg
Sodium: 240 mg
Potassium: 110 mg
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 20 g
Calcium: 50 mg
Iron: 1.2 mg

The Perfect Tart Crust

The crust for a Mango Curd Tart is as important as the curd itself. A well-made crust provides the necessary texture and support to balance the smooth and creamy mango curd filling. In this recipe, the coconut-infused graham cracker crust is used to add an additional layer of flavor, complementing the tropical theme. Toasted coconut brings a subtle nuttiness to the crust, while the graham crackers provide a slight crunch and sweetness. This crust holds up well to the curd, preventing it from becoming soggy while adding an extra element of texture with each bite.

Why Coconut and Mango Pair So Well

Coconut and mango are a natural pairing, particularly in tropical and Caribbean-inspired desserts. The subtle sweetness of coconut enhances the bright, fruity flavor of mango without overpowering it. Coconut, often used in various forms such as shredded, toasted, or as milk, complements the creamy and velvety texture of mango curd. In this recipe, the toasted shredded coconut in the crust adds a crunchy contrast to the smooth mango filling, making each bite a delightful experience.

The Role of Lime in Mango Curd

The addition of lime to the mango curd is not just for flavor—it also acts as a balancing agent. Lime brings a refreshing tartness that cuts through the richness of the mango and butter, creating a well-rounded and satisfying curd. The zesty lime complements the natural sweetness of the mango, making the curd less cloying and more refreshing. The acidity from the lime also helps the curd set more firmly, which is essential for the tart’s texture.

Swiss Meringue for Garnish

One of the optional garnishes for this Mango Curd Tart is Swiss meringue, which adds a beautiful, airy contrast to the dense mango curd filling. Swiss meringue is made by gently heating egg whites and sugar over a double boiler, then whipping the mixture until stiff peaks form. This meringue is not only visually striking but also adds a light sweetness and smooth texture to the tart. When toasted lightly, it forms a crisp outer layer, making it an elegant and indulgent topping for the tart.

The Versatility of Mango Curd

Mango curd can be used in many different ways beyond just being a filling for a tart. Its versatility makes it a great addition to various desserts, such as layered cakes, cheesecakes, or parfaits. Mango curd can also be used as a spread on scones, pancakes, or toast, making it a delightful option for breakfast or afternoon tea. Its creamy texture and tropical flavor bring a refreshing twist to traditional curds, making it a favorite among those who love experimenting with new dessert options.

A Showstopper Dessert

One of the main reasons why the Mango Curd Tart is so popular is because it makes a visually stunning statement on any dessert table. The vibrant golden mango filling, coupled with the delicate coconut-crusted base, creates an attractive contrast of colors that makes it an eye-catching treat. Topped with thin slices of fresh mango or a dollop of meringue, this tart is sure to impress guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Its bright, sunny appearance is perfect for summer gatherings, weddings, or any occasion where you want to showcase a beautiful, tropical dessert.

Perfect for Special Occasions

The Mango Curd Tart is a fantastic choice for special occasions such as birthdays, holiday celebrations, or dinner parties. Its tropical flair makes it an excellent dessert for warm-weather gatherings, but it can also bring a refreshing burst of flavor to colder months. Its combination of creamy curd, crunchy crust, and light meringue makes it a crowd-pleaser for all ages, and it can easily be adapted to suit different dietary needs or preferences.

Why Mango Curd is a Healthier Option

While this tart is undeniably indulgent, mango curd offers some health benefits. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are antioxidants that support skin health and boost the immune system. They also contain fiber, which aids in digestion. When combined with the tangy lime and healthy fats from the coconut, the mango curd offers a nutrient-dense option compared to traditional custards or sugary fillings. Of course, it’s still important to enjoy this dessert in moderation, but it does provide some nutritional benefits that make it a more wholesome choice.

Balancing Sweet and Sour Flavors

The balance of sweet and sour flavors is what makes the Mango Curd Tart so irresistible. The natural sweetness of mango, paired with the tangy lime and the buttery richness of the curd, creates a perfect harmony of flavors. This contrast is essential for any good dessert, as it ensures that no single flavor overwhelms the palate. The tartness from the lime prevents the mango curd from becoming overly sweet, making it more refreshing and satisfying.

Tart vs. Pie: The Difference

While both a tart and a pie feature a crust filled with a sweet or savory filling, there are a few key differences. A tart typically has a shallow, straight-sided crust, often with a removable bottom for easy serving, while a pie has a deeper, fluted crust. Tarts are generally considered more refined and elegant, making them ideal for special occasions like weddings or dinner parties. A Mango Curd Tart, with its smooth filling and delicate presentation, offers a lighter and more sophisticated alternative to a traditional fruit pie.

How to Store and Serve Mango Curd Tart

To store the Mango Curd Tart, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. The curd will continue to set as it cools, and the flavors will meld together over time. If you need to prepare the tart ahead of time, you can make it a day or two in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before slicing to ensure the curd is slightly softened and easier to cut.

A Perfect Pairing with Beverages

The bright and refreshing flavors of Mango Curd Tart pair well with various beverages. For an adult beverage, consider serving it with a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the tart’s tropical flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of iced tea with lemon or a light fruit punch can offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the curd.

How to Make the Tart Ahead of Time

If you’re planning to serve the Mango Curd Tart at a future event, you can make it ahead of time for convenience. Prepare the tart the day before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve. It’s an ideal dessert to prepare in advance, as the flavors only improve with time. The curd will set properly overnight, making it easy to serve on the day of your event without any last-minute hassle.

Mango Curd as a Gift

Another creative way to use mango curd is as a homemade gift. You can make small batches of mango curd and place them in mason jars, decorating them with ribbons or personalized tags. These jars make a thoughtful and unique gift for friends and family, especially during the holidays or special occasions. Mango curd can also be paired with baked goods like shortbread cookies or scones for an added treat.

Customizing the Recipe

While the Mango Curd Tart is delicious on its own, you can also customize the recipe to suit your preferences. For instance, you can substitute the graham cracker crust with a shortcrust pastry for a more traditional approach or add different fruits to the mango curd for a twist. Consider blending in passion fruit for an even more exotic flavor, or incorporating a touch of coconut milk into the curd for a creamier texture.

Mango Varieties for the Best Curd

Choosing the right type of mango for your curd is essential to achieving the best flavor. There are many varieties of mangoes available, but the Kesar mango is particularly known for its sweetness and smooth texture, making it perfect for curd. If Kesar mangoes are not available, you can use other varieties like Ataulfo or Haden mangoes, which also offer great flavor. Make sure the mangoes you use are ripe and juicy for the best results.

Conclusion

The Mango Curd Tart is a delightful dessert that brings a tropical flair to your kitchen. With its luscious, creamy mango curd filling, buttery coconut crust, and elegant presentation, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re serving it at a special event or just enjoying it at home, this tart offers the perfect combination of sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors. The recipe is versatile enough to be adapted for different occasions and tastes, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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