Vegetarian Recipes: Lemon Tart

Ingredients

• 1 lemon (juice and grated rind)
• 1 cup of water
• 1 tablespoon of cornflour
• 2 eggs
• 1 oz. of butter
• Sugar to taste
• Shortcrust pastry (made from 4 oz. of whole wheat flour and 1.5 oz. of butter)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cornflour Mixture: In a small bowl, moisten the cornflour with a little water. Set aside.
2. Boil the Lemon Mixture: In a saucepan, bring the remaining water to a boil. Add the lemon juice, grated lemon rind, and sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
3. Thicken the Mixture: Gradually add the moistened cornflour to the boiling lemon mixture. Stir continuously until the mixture thickens. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat and allow it to cool.
4. Combine Ingredients: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Once the lemon mixture has cooled, mix in the beaten eggs and butter until well combined.
5. Prepare the Pastry: Roll out the shortcrust pastry and line a flat dish or soup plate with it. Pour the lemon mixture into the pastry-lined dish.
6. Decorate and Bake: Cut thin strips of pastry and arrange them in a diamond pattern over the tart. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 45 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.

Nutritional Information

Interesting Facts

• Lemon Production: Did you know that India is one of the largest producers of lemons in the world, contributing to over 16% of global production? Source: FAO
• Health Benefits: Lemons are rich in Vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. One lemon provides about 31 mg of Vitamin C, which is 51% of the recommended daily intake. Source: NIH
• Cornflour Usage: Cornflour, also known as cornstarch, is a common thickening agent in many recipes. It is gluten-free, making it a suitable option for those with gluten intolerance. Source: Celiac Disease Foundation

Tips for the Perfect Lemon Tart

• Use Fresh Lemons: Freshly squeezed lemon juice and freshly grated rind will give your tart a more vibrant and authentic flavor.
• Chill the Dough: For a flakier crust, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
• Adjust Sweetness: Taste the lemon mixture before adding it to the pastry. Adjust the sugar according to your preference.

Conclusion

This vegetarian Lemon Tart is a perfect blend of tangy and sweet, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it's a recipe that both novice and experienced bakers can enjoy. Try it out and savor the refreshing taste of lemons in every bite!

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, check out BBC Good Food and AllRecipes.