Ingredients
8 large egg yolks
2 large whole eggs
1 cup (10 limes) freshly squeezed lime juice, strained
2 cups sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-size pieces
2 tablespoons freshly grated lime zest (optional)
Preparation
Whisk together egg yolks and whole eggs in a nonreactive saucepan. Add sugar and lime juice; whisk to combine.
Cook over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon, until the mixture thickens to almost puddinglike consistency, about 30 minutes. Remove from heat; transfer to a heat-proof bowl. Stir in butter one piece at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in lime zest, if desired.
If not using immediately, cover surface directly with plastic wrap to keep a skin from forming, and refrigerate until ready to use.
