| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 370 | 16g | 7g | 53g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 33g | 1g | 6g | 0.45g |
There’s a certain thrill that courses through my veins whenever I bake the sublime Fingered Citron Tart. Inspired by my Californian roots with a touch of comfort that is synonymous with classic American traditions, this tart speaks volumes about my culinary journey.
When I stumbled upon the fingered citron — also colloquially known as Buddha’s Hand — a unique citrus variety that originated from Northeast India, I couldn’t resist incorporating it into my gastronomic experiments. Paired with the essential tart ingredients, this citrusy recipe blends West Coast health-consciousness with an exploration of global flavors, making every bite an adventure.
The Fingered Citron Tart: A Fruit-Based Symphony
Following in the footsteps of well-loved classics like the luscious Lemon Meringue Pie or the heavenly Key Lime Tart, the Fingered Citron Tart offers a unique twist that tantalises the palate with its complex flavor profile. The fragrant and zesty citron cuts through the sweetness of the tart, providing a refreshing perspective to a beloved comfort dish.
Health enthusiasts will be delighted to know that the fingered citron holds a plethora of health benefits that truly complements its exquisite taste. Rich in vitamin C and fiber, this extraordinary fruit contributes to overall wellness, boosting immunity, improving digestion, and providing an antioxidant boost to a traditional dessert.
An Edible Work of Art
The aesthetically pleasing finger-like segments of Buddha’s Hand are indeed a feast for the eyes — creating a vibrant centerpiece for any gathering. The Fingered Citron Tart is more than just a culinary delight; it is a work of edible art in its own right.
Needless to say, this dessert pairs extraordinarily well with a glass of crisp, Californian white wine, and is an excellent dish to round off a healthy salad meal. For recipe reference, consider checking out this gourmet Arugula and Fresh Fruit Salad with Goat Cheese as an appetizer.
In sum, the Fingered Citron Tart is a testament to how a traditional comfort dessert can be ingeniously spun to not only satisfy your sweet tooth but to feed your health-conscious soul as well. It’s a slice of my sunny Californian life that I am truly excited to share with each of you.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
- 4 fingered citrons (also known as Buddha’s hand), zested and finely chopped
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Method
Step One
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Then grease a 9-inch tart pan.
Step Two
In a medium-sized bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cut in the chilled, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together. Press the dough evenly into the prepared tart pan. Place the tart pan in the fridge while you prepare the filling.
Step Three
Zest and finely chop the fingered citrons. You should have roughly 1 cup of finely chopped fingered citron. Set aside.
Step Four
In a large bowl, combine 1 1/2 cups sugar and 1/4 cup flour. Then, beat in the eggs, lemon juice, finely chopped fingered citron, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Ensure all ingredients are fully combined.
Step Five
Remove the tart shell from the fridge and pour the filling into the shell.
Step Six
Place the tart into the preheated oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until filling is set and the top is lightly browned.
Step Seven
Take the tart out of the oven and leave it to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, dust the tart with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
