National Lemon Meringue Pie Day
Enjoy a slice of pie on #NationalLemonMeringuePieDay
When life gives you lemons you should not make lemonade. Instead, make lemon meringue pie, especially since 15 August is National Lemon Meringue Pie Day!
Although it is an unofficial national day, it is still celebrated annually throughout the world.
Lemon meringue pie is a dessert that is constructed in three parts, the crust (made with shortcrust pastry), the lemon custard filling and the delicate, fluffy meringue top.
The shortcrust pastry is prepared beforehand and baked lightly to the colour of a light cookie, before the pie is constructed, by mixing together egg yolks, cream, sugar and lemon juice. The fluffy meringue that goes on top of the pie, is made by beating egg whites, cream of tartar and sugar (added at the right time to create a fluffy meringue). The baker knows the meringue is ready when stiff peaks are created.
To complete the delicious dessert, the finished meringue is piped on top of the custard filling and then the whole pie is baked until the meringue is lightly toasted.
Lemon custard has been around since Medieval Times when lemons was used to prevent scurvy and gum disease. Meringue was perfected in France in the 17th century and lemon meringue pies started to become a staple in the 19th century.
The lemon meringue pie as we know it today, is believed to have originated in Philidelphia in the 19th century when Elizabeth Goodfellow decided to finish her signature lemon custard dish off with meringue. The product was a huge success and Goodfellow continued to top her custards with meringue and this resourcefulness led to the creation of the lemon meringue pie in America.
To celebrate today, visit your local bakery, or coffee shop, and enjoy a slice of lemon meringue pie. Feeling adventurous? Then make your own pie to enjoy at home with friends and family.
Post on social media using #NationalLemonMeringuePieDay
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