This Mango Curd Tart combines a buttery, crisp crust with a luscious, tangy mango curd filling, creating a dessert that’s both refreshing and indulgent. The tropical flavors of mango are complemented by hints of lime and coconut, making it a perfect 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

3.For Garnish:

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).
Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, kosher salt, brown sugar, and toasted shredded coconut. Pour in the melted butter and stir 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.
Bake the Crust: Place the tart pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and set it aside to cool slightly.
Prepare the Mango Curd: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine mango puree, lime zest, lime juice, granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is warm but not boiling. In a separate bowl, lightly beat the egg yolks. Gradually temper the yolks by slowly adding a small amount of the warm mango mixture while whisking continuously. Pour the tempered yolks back into the saucepan with the remaining mango mixture. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. Remove from heat and stir in the unsalted butter until fully incorporated.
Assemble the Tart: Pour the warm mango curd into the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
Bake the Tart: Return the tart to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the curd is set but still slightly jiggly in the center. Remove from the oven and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate the tart for at least 2 hours to fully set.
Garnish and Serve: Before serving, top the tart with Swiss meringue, coconut chips, lime wedges, and mango slices as desired. Slice and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

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

The History of Mango Tart

Mango tarts have a fascinating history that blends diverse culinary traditions. Mango, a tropical fruit native to South Asia, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Its use in desserts traces back to India, where it is enjoyed in both savory and sweet forms. As Western kitchens began incorporating exotic fruits, mango tarts gradually emerged, combining the richness of butter pastry with the tropical sweetness of mango. This fusion of flavors eventually became a popular dessert, not only in tropical countries but also in gourmet kitchens worldwide.

The Popularity of Mango in Desserts

Mango has earned its place as one of the most beloved fruits in the world of desserts. Known for its juicy sweetness and slight tanginess, it elevates various dishes, from ice creams to cakes, sorbets, and puddings. Mango’s versatile flavor adds vibrancy to any dessert, while its bright color makes it a visually appealing ingredient. Mango tarts, with their smooth, tangy filling nestled in a buttery crust, have become a global favorite for good reason they deliver a refreshing tropical twist to classic pastry desserts.

The Role of Butter in the Crust

Butter plays an essential role in creating the perfect tart crust. When mixed with flour, it imparts richness and a delicate, flaky texture that crumbles beautifully when you bite into it. The fat content of butter not only contributes to the flavor but also ensures that the crust holds up well against the mango curd filling without becoming soggy. A well-prepared butter-based crust is key to a successful mango tart, providing a flavorful foundation for the tropical filling.

The Importance of Using Fresh Mango

Using fresh, ripe mangoes is crucial for the best mango curd. The flavor and texture of the mango directly influence the final product. A ripe mango brings out the natural sweetness and complex flavor that canned mango puree often lacks. Fresh mangoes provide depth and richness that will elevate the tart’s filling. However, if fresh mangoes are not available, high-quality canned puree can be a good substitute, especially when preparing curd for tarts, ensuring a delicious result.

Coconut’s Role in Enhancing Flavor

Coconut adds a distinctive tropical flair that complements the mango curd in the tart. Toasted shredded coconut in the crust brings a hint of coconut flavor that pairs perfectly with the tangy mango filling. Coconut’s natural sweetness and nutty flavor enhance the overall taste profile, creating a balanced dessert. Additionally, the slight crunch of toasted coconut contrasts beautifully with the creamy texture of the mango curd, adding complexity to the eating experience.

The Importance of Balance Between Sweetness and Tartness

Achieving the perfect balance between sweetness and tartness is essential when making a mango tart. The natural sweetness of the mango curd can be complemented by a touch of lime juice, which brightens the flavor and adds a refreshing zing. Careful attention must be paid to the amount of sugar added to the curd—too much sugar can overpower the mango’s natural flavor. Lime zest also plays an important role, providing acidity that helps to balance the richness of the curd and ensures the dessert is not overly sweet.

The Significance of Lime in Mango-Based Desserts

Lime is a key ingredient in many mango-based desserts, acting as a counterbalance to the sweetness of the fruit. Its bright, tangy flavor complements mango’s tropical notes and enhances the dessert’s overall freshness. Lime zest, rich in aromatic oils, adds a fragrant element to the curd, giving it a more complex and vibrant flavor. Whether incorporated into the curd or used as a garnish, lime provides the necessary citrusy kick that brings the dessert to life.

Why Swiss Meringue Works as a Garnish

Swiss meringue is a perfect choice for garnishing mango tarts, thanks to its light, airy texture and sweet taste. Made by whipping egg whites with sugar over a double boiler, the meringue achieves a fluffy consistency that contrasts beautifully with the firm texture of the tart crust. After being lightly browned with a torch, the meringue adds an elegant finishing touch. The sweetness of the meringue helps balance the tartness of lime and the richness of the mango curd, making each bite a delightful experience.

The Role of Garnishes in Enhancing Presentation

Garnishes are an important aspect of presenting a mango tart, not just for aesthetics but also for enhancing flavor. Thin slices of mango, lime wedges, and toasted coconut flakes add visual appeal and provide additional layers of flavor. The bright colors of the garnishes contrast beautifully with the golden mango curd, while the mango slices introduce a fresh burst of flavor. Coconut adds texture, creating an exciting contrast with the smooth curd. These thoughtful garnishes ensure that the tart looks as good as it tastes.

Baking Tips for a Perfect Mango Curd Tart

Baking the mango tart to perfection requires attention to detail. Ensuring the crust is properly baked and that the curd sets without becoming too firm is crucial. The curd should still have a slight jiggle in the center when the tart is removed from the oven, indicating that it will set to the right consistency as it cools. Overbaking can result in a rubbery curd, so it’s important to keep a close eye on the baking time to achieve the ideal texture.

Making the Crust Ahead of Time

One of the advantages of making a mango tart is that you can prepare the crust in advance. Allowing the crust to cool and set properly ensures that it firms up, developing a more defined texture. If you’re short on time on the day of serving, preparing the crust a day ahead can save valuable preparation time. Just be sure to store the crust in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh until it’s ready to be filled with mango curd.

How to Store Leftover Mango Curd Tart

If you have leftover mango curd tart, it’s best stored in the refrigerator to maintain the freshness of the curd. Cover the tart with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to prevent the crust from becoming soggy. The tart will generally stay fresh for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freezing is an option. Wrap the tart tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When ready to serve, allow the tart to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

The Best Time to Serve Mango Curd Tart

Mango curd tart is a versatile dessert that can be served for various occasions. Its vibrant tropical flavor makes it a great choice for summer events, such as barbecues, tropical-themed parties, or casual gatherings. However, its refreshing nature means it is also perfect for year-round enjoyment, including birthdays, weddings, and holiday celebrations. The tart’s beautiful appearance and bright flavor profile are sure to make it a hit at any event.

Health Benefits of Mangoes

Mangoes aren’t just delicious they also pack a nutritional punch. Rich in vitamin C, they support the immune system and promote healthy skin. Mangoes are also high in fiber, aiding digestion, and contain powerful antioxidants like beta-carotene and polyphenols that protect the body from oxidative stress. By incorporating mangoes into your diet through desserts like mango curd tart, you can enjoy both their wonderful flavor and numerous health benefits.

Customizing Your Mango Curd Tart

While the classic mango curd tart is a delightful treat, there are many ways to customize it to your personal preferences. For those with dietary restrictions, there are gluten-free alternatives for the crust, such as coconut flour or almond flour. You can also experiment with different garnishes, like toasted almonds or a drizzle of passion fruit syrup, to add more tropical flair. If you prefer a sweeter or less sweet curd, adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste.

Making a Mango Curd Tart for Special Dietary Needs

If you need to prepare a mango curd tart to accommodate special dietary needs, several easy substitutions can be made. To create a vegan version, swap out the butter for plant-based options like coconut oil or margarine, and replace the eggs with a flax egg. For a dairy-free version, use coconut or almond milk in place of dairy ingredients. These substitutions allow you to enjoy a mango tart that fits various dietary preferences without compromising on flavor.

Conclusion

Mango curd tart is a delightful dessert that offers a balance of indulgence and refreshment. With its rich, tropical flavors, buttery crust, and tangy curd, it’s a perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served at a party or enjoyed as a special indulgence, this tart is sure to impress with its beautiful color and irresistible flavor. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and impressive presentation make it a must-try recipe for any dessert enthusiast or home baker.

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