Delight in Chef Bongo’s Classic Lemon Tart—A French Patisserie Masterpiece with a Zesty Twist
"It's tart, it's sweet, it's unpretentious, yet it's beyond delicious" - A sweet-tooth aficionado
OPENING ANECDOTE
Embark on a culinary journey with the classic Lemon Tart, a Bongo favourite dessert that marries the elegance of French patisserie with the zest of sun-kissed citrus. Originating from France, the lemon tart has delighted palates since the Renaissance, a treat once reserved for royalty and now enjoyed by all.
As you savor the bright, tangy flavors, consider this: lemons made their way to Africa around 700 AD through Arab traders, becoming a symbol of love and fidelity in the Victorian era due to their rarity and vibrant hue.
Today, the lemon tart continues to evolve, with variations like South Africa’s lemon and condensed milk tart, a sweet twist on the classic that’s as refreshing as a breeze on the Cape.
So, as you indulge in this delightful dessert, you’re not just tasting a treat—you’re savoring a slice of history!
Lemon Tart Zest & African Sunsets
Alright, let's get zesty with Chef Bongo! Are you ready to embark on a citrus-infused adventure? Today, we're crafting the Lemon Tart Zest & African Sunsets, a dessert that's as bright as the sun setting over the savannah. This isn't just any tart; it's a fusion of French finesse and African sunshine, with every bite bursting with the tang of lemons. So, dust off your tart pans, zest your lemons, and let's dive into this sweet and tangy journey!
INGREDIENT & SHOPPING LIST
Exact measurements above. 🔺
Checklist for shopping below. 🔻
DIRECTIONS
1. Prepare the Crust:
In a food processor, combine:
i. 1½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
ii. 1/4 cup (50g) powdered sugar
iii. 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed, and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Incorporate 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, pulsing until the dough comes together. Avoid overmixing.
On a floured surface, shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
Roll out the dough to approximately 1/8 inch thickness and fit it into a 9-inch (23-24cm) tart pan. Press the dough evenly into the bottom and up the sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough and prick the base with a fork. Freeze for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together:
i. 2 large eggs
ii. 3 egg yolks
iii. 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
Stir in zest from 2 lemons, 1/2 cup (120ml) fresh lemon juice, and gently whisk in 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream until well combined. Set aside.
3. Blind Bake the Crust:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line the chilled crust with parchment paper and fill with pie weights, dry beans, or rice.
Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment paper.
Continue baking for another 10-15 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.
4. Bake the Filling:
Reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C).
Pour the filling into the hot crust and bake for 17-20 minutes, or until the filling is just set.
5. Cool and Chill:
Allow the tart to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
6. Serve:
Dust with powdered sugar before serving, or enjoy as is. Your Lemon Tart Zest & African Sunsets is ready to delight with its zesty charm and elegant presentation. Bon appétit, or as we might say in Africa, "Kuza chakula cha harusi!" - Enjoy the feast!
FUN FACTS by BONGO
PRO TIPS by BONGO
FINAL NOTE
With Chef Bongo's Lemon Tart Zest & African Sunsets, you've not just made a dessert; you've captured the essence of a sun-drenched African afternoon in a bite. This tart, with its vibrant lemon filling, is like a love letter to the citrus groves of the Cape, wrapped in the sophistication of French pastry.
As you slice into this zesty delight, remember that you're not only indulging in a treat but also partaking in a tradition that spans continents and centuries. From the royal tables of Renaissance France to the vibrant markets of Africa, this lemon tart is a culinary bridge that connects us all through flavor.
Chef Bongo often says, "Every dessert tells a story, and this one whispers of sunsets, citrus, and the sweet simplicity of joy."
So, share this slice of history with those you hold dear, let the tart's bright zest light up your gatherings, and bask in the glow of this culinary creation. From the sunsets of Africa to your table, happy baking and joyful sharing! 🍋🌅
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