Easy Sea Buckthorn Curd (No Added Sugar)

This easy sea buckthorn curd is very delicious and full of nutrients. It combines the tartness of the berries with the creamy richness of egg yolks, and butter.

Sea Buckthorn Curd- Nutritional Powerhouse

Growing up in Poland, the arrival of fall was marked by the vibrant orange hue of sea buckthorn berries dotting the landscape. These berries were a treasured find, often foraged during family outings in the countryside. The tart, nutrient-packed fruit was a staple in our household, especially when transformed into a delicious sea buckthorn curd. This rich, tangy spread became a seasonal treat, a way to savor the last days of summer as the crisp autumn air set in.

What is Sea Buckthorn?

Sea buckthorn, known scientifically as Hippophae rhamnoides, is a hardy shrub that thrives in the cooler climates of Europe and Asia, including Poland. The berries grow in dense clusters and are small and brightly colored, ranging from deep yellow to vibrant orange. They are packed with health benefits, notably high in vitamin C and fatty acids, making them a nutritional powerhouse.

In Poland, we harvest sea buckthorn in the fall, usually around September or October. By this time, the berries are fully ripe and bursting with flavor. The bushes, though thorny, yield their bounty to those willing to carefully pick the small, juicy fruits. Sea buckthorn berries are typically harvested in the fall, usually between September and October. This is when the berries are fully ripe and peak in flavor and nutritional value. The bright orange berries should be plump and slightly soft to the touch, indicating they’re ready to be picked.

Due to the shrub’s thorny branches, harvesting sea buckthorn can be a bit tricky, so it’s best to wear protective gloves. Some people also freeze the branches before harvesting, as this makes the berries easier to remove. The berries are then often turned into seabuckthorn juice or, in our case, a luxurious sea buckthorn curd that captures the essence of the season.

What is Curd?

Curd is a creamy, sweet-tart spread or dessert made by cooking a mixture of fruit juice or puree, egg yolks, and sugar. The result is a smooth, custard-like texture that can be used in various culinary applications. It’s called “curd” because it is consistent with curdled dairy products, but it’s made without dairy. Instead, the thickening comes from the egg yolks and the cooking process.

How To Use It?

This delicious sea buckthorn curd can be used in countless ways. Spread it over a soft fruit cake, or use it to fill tart shells made from tart dough. It pairs beautifully with Greek yogurt or ice creams and can even be swirled into a mixture of egg whites at soft peaks for a tangy meringue. The versatility of this curd makes it a must-have for any kitchen.

Health Benefits Of Sea Buckthorn Berries

Rich in Vitamin C: Sea buckthorn berries are incredibly high in vitamin C, with levels that can be up to 10 times higher than those found in oranges. Vitamin C is essential for a healthy immune system, skin health, and the production of collagen, which is vital for maintaining the elasticity and strength of the skin.

High in Antioxidants: These berries are loaded with antioxidants, including vitamin E and flavonoids, which help protect the body from oxidative stress and free radical damage. Antioxidants are crucial in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Contains Essential Fatty Acids: Sea buckthorn is one of the few plant sources that contain all four omega fatty acids: omega-3, -6, -7, and -9. Omega-7, in particular, is rare and highly beneficial for skin health, supporting cell regeneration and helping to maintain moisture and elasticity.

Supports Skin Health: The combination of antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins in sea buckthorn makes it excellent for skin health. It can help reduce inflammation, support wound healing, and improve skin hydration. Sea buckthorn oil, derived from the berries, is commonly used in skincare products to promote a healthy, glowing complexion.

Boosts Immune Function: The high vitamin C content and other immune-supporting nutrients, like vitamins A and E, help boost the body’s immune function, making sea buckthorn an effective natural remedy for preventing colds and other infections.

Promotes Heart Health: The omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in sea buckthorn are beneficial for heart health. They help lower cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cardiovascular function. Regular consumption of sea buckthorn may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Aids in Digestion: Sea buckthorn has been used traditionally to aid digestion. The berries contain fiber, which supports healthy digestion, and their anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe the digestive tract.

Supports Eye Health: The carotenoids in sea buckthorn, particularly beta-carotene, are beneficial for eye health. They help protect the eyes from oxidative damage and support overall vision health, reducing the risk of age-related eye conditions.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The high levels of flavonoids and other anti-inflammatory compounds in sea buckthorn help reduce inflammation in the body, which is key in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

What You Will Need to Make the Curd

Sea Buckthorn: Sea buckthorn berries are small, bright orange fruits known for their tart, citrusy flavor. They are packed with nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin E, and essential fatty acids, making them a nutritional powerhouse. Their sharp taste adds a distinct tang to recipes like curds, sauces, and desserts.

Butter: Butter is a rich, creamy fat derived from milk. It adds a luscious texture and a rich, indulgent flavor to dishes. In curds, butter helps create a smooth, velvety consistency and balances the tartness of ingredients like sea buckthorn and lemon juice.

Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is a vibrant, tangy liquid extracted from lemons. It adds a zesty flavor and acidity that brightens up dishes, balancing sweetness and enhancing the overall taste. In curds, lemon juice complements the tartness of sea buckthorn and helps achieve a well-rounded flavor profile.

Eggs: Eggs, particularly the yolks, are essential for thickening and enriching curds. The yolks provide a creamy texture and a rich, golden color, while also acting as an emulsifier to blend the other ingredients smoothly. The egg whites, when used in other recipes, can be whipped to soft peaks for meringues or added to baked goods for lightness.

Monk Fruit with Erythritol: Monk fruit sweetener, often combined with erythritol, is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from monk fruit. It offers a sweet taste similar to sugar without the calories or impact on blood sugar levels. Erythritol, a sugar alcohol, is often mixed with monk fruit to provide bulk and sweetness. This combination is perfect for those seeking a lower-calorie alternative to sugar, offering sweetness without overpowering the natural flavors of the other ingredients.

How to make it?

Prepare the Sea Buckthorn Juice:

• If using fresh sea buckthorn berries, rinse them thoroughly. Place the berries in a small saucepan over medium heat and cook until they soften and release their juice, about 5-7 minutes. Use a food processor or blender to puree the berries, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds and skins, leaving you with smooth sea buckthorn juice. If using frozen berries, thaw them first and then follow the same process.

Cook the Curds:

• Whisk together the sea buckthorn juice and lemon juice in a heatproof bowl until well until boiling.
• Meanwhile, whisk the eggs and monk fruit sweetener with erythritol or sugar together in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of gently steaming water.(double boiler method) Keep whisking until smooth.
• Remove the sea buckthorn juice mixture from the heat. Slowly pour into the egg mixture while continuing to whisk to maintain a thick ribbon. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon or silicone spatula, ensuring the mixture thickens evenly. The curd will gradually thicken as it cooks, taking about 8-10 minutes. It’s ready when it coats the back of the spoon and holds its shape when you draw a line through it with your finger.

Add the Butter:

• Remove the curd from the heat. Gradually add the butter pieces, one at a time, stirring after each addition until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. This will give the curd a smooth and glossy finish.

Cool the Curd:

• Pour the curd into a clean bowl and cover the surface with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the curd to prevent a skin from forming. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the curd to set.

Store and Enjoy:

• Once the curd has cooled and thickened, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. The curd will keep for up to 2 weeks. Enjoy your sea buckthorn curd spread on toast, as a filling for tart shells, or as a topping for yogurt, ice creams, or cakes.

How to Use Curd

1. Spread:
   • Use curd as a delicious spread on toast, scones, or muffins (orange cranberry superfood muffins). Its tangy sweetness pairs well with a variety of baked goods, adding a flavorful twist to your breakfast or snack.
2. Topping:
   • Spoon curd over yogurt or peach yogurt parfait, pancakes (hazelnut pumpkin pancake’s, or green plantain pancakes), waffles, or ice cream for an extra burst of flavor. It makes a lovely topping for desserts and breakfast items, enhancing them with its unique taste and creamy texture.
3. Filling:
   • Use curd as a filling for pastries, tarts, or cakes. It works well in recipes where a creamy, fruity filling is desired. You can also incorporate it into layer cakes or as a layer in trifles.
4. Dessert:
   • Serve curd on its own as a simple yet elegant dessert. You can garnish it with fresh fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of honey to elevate the presentation and flavor. Or you can served with grilled peaches!
5. Gift:
   • Curd makes a wonderful homemade gift. Package it in a decorative jar and give it as a thoughtful present for friends and family. It’s a great way to share a taste of your favorite recipes and flavors.

Storage

Sea buckthorn curd can be stored in a mason jar in the fridge for up to 7 days.

Whether you’re creating a new account in your recipe book or revisiting an old favorite, sea buckthorn curd is a recipe worth adding to your repertoire.

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