National Lemon Meringue Day
When life hands you lemons, make lemon meringue pie on #NationalLemonMeringuePieDay
When life hands you lemons, you should not make lemonade. Instead, make lemon meringue pie!
National Lemon Meringue Pie Day is an unofficial national day celebrated on 15 August.
Lemon meringue pie is a dessert that is made in three parts – the crust made with shortbread pastry, the lemon custard filling, and the delicate and fluffy meringue topping.
The shortbread crust is prepared beforehand and baked slightly to the consistency of a light cookie, before the pie is put together.
The lemon custard is made with egg yolks, cream, sugar and lemon juice. The meringue is made by beating egg whites, cream of tartar and sugar (added at the right time) to create a fluffy meringue. The meringue is ready when it stands in stiff peaks.
The meringue is piped on top of the custard filling and the whole pie is baked until the meringue is lightly toasted.
Lemon custard has been around since medieval times, when lemons were used to prevent scurvy and gum disease. Meringue was perfected in France in the 17th century and lemon meringue pies became a staple dessert 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 Elizabeth continued topping her custards with meringue. This resourcefulness led to the creation of the lemon meringue pie in America.
To celebrate the day, enjoy a slice of lemon meringue pie or make your own to enjoy at home with friends and family.
Post on your comments on social media using #NationalLemonMeringuePieDay
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