Jamie Oliver's Lemon Pudding

Jamie Oliver's Lemon Pudding: A Sweet and Tart Delight

If you're looking for a dessert that combines refreshing flavors with a delicate texture, lemon pudding is the perfect choice. This recipe, inspired by the famous chef Jamie Oliver, offers a refined yet simple culinary experience that will impress any guest. With a balanced taste between sweet and tart, lemon pudding holds a special place in the hearts of many and is perfect to be served after a hearty meal or as a refreshing snack on warm days.

Preparation Time:
- Active time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 40-45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 4 eggs
- 110 g of margarine (or unsalted butter for a richer flavor)
- 110 g of flour
- 230 g of sugar
- 570 ml of milk
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons (for an intense flavor)
- 1 packet of baking powder
- A pinch of salt

A Bit of History:
Lemon pudding has deep roots in culinary tradition, being a dessert that has evolved over time. Its origins are often linked to the use of lemons, a precious and versatile ingredient that has been used in various sweet and savory dishes. This delicate pudding resembles a clever cake, having a surprising texture that transforms during baking, creating a unique layering.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Ingredients:
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the eggs and milk are at room temperature to facilitate mixing. It is essential to have everything at hand to make the cooking process as smooth as possible.

2. Creaming Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, add the margarine (or butter) and sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine them until you achieve a fluffy, light-colored cream. This step is crucial for incorporating air, ensuring a light and airy texture.

3. Adding Lemon:
Add the grated lemon zest to the butter and sugar mixture. Then, incorporate the egg yolks, mixing well after each addition. This will not only provide a vibrant flavor but also enhance the pudding's texture.

4. Integrating Light Ingredients:
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Sift the mixture over the butter and egg mixture, stirring gently. Then add the milk and lemon juice, continuing to homogenize. You will get a rather liquid mixture, and that is perfect!

5. Preparing the Egg Whites:
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until frothy and soft peaks form. This step will add air and make the pudding light and fluffy. Be careful not to overmix, as you want to maintain the airy texture.

6. Combining the Mixtures:
Using a spatula, gently fold the beaten egg whites into the lemon mixture. Do this delicately, with up-and-down motions, to avoid losing the air from the egg whites. This technique will help achieve a fluffy and light pudding.

7. Baking:
Grease a heatproof dish with a little butter and pour the mixture into it. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the dish in the oven and bake the pudding for 40-45 minutes, until the top becomes golden and set. It is normal for the pudding to sink a little while cooling, so don’t worry!

8. Cooling and Serving:
Remove the pudding from the oven and let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for a few hours. This will intensify the flavors and help stabilize the texture. You can serve the pudding plain or with a dollop of cream or whipped cream for a creamy contrast.

Tips and Suggestions:
- You can add a little vanilla extract to the mixture for extra flavor.
- If you want a touch of freshness, add a few fresh mint leaves as a garnish.
- Lemon pudding pairs perfectly with a glass of lemonade or iced tea, creating a refreshing experience.

Nutritional Benefits:
This pudding is rich in protein due to the eggs, and lemon provides a boost of vitamin C, essential for the immune system. It also contains carbohydrates from sugar and flour, providing energy. It is a dessert that, although sweet, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use another type of sweetener? Yes, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but adjust the quantity according to your preferences.
- How can I make the pudding less sweet? Reduce the sugar by 50 g and add more lemon juice for a tarter taste.
- Can it be frozen? While it’s better to consume it fresh, the pudding can be frozen. Make sure to cover it well to avoid freezer burn.

Enjoy every bite of this lemon pudding and let its refined flavor carry you away! It is a dessert that brings smiles and can quickly become your favorite. With each serving, you will discover not just a recipe but a story full of flavors and memories. Savor it with your loved ones and let it be the star of your meal!