Delia Smith Banana Cake Recipe

Name: Mary Berry's Chicken and Leek Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 5 tablespoons butter; 3 large leeks, sliced; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 cups apple juice; 2 cups chicken stock; 250g Portobello mushrooms, sliced; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 3 tablespoons crème fraîche; 750g cooked chicken, sliced; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 sheet all-butter puff pastry; 1 egg, beaten with a little milk for brushing

Delve into the world of baking with this exquisite Banana and Walnut Loaf, a recipe that shines a spotlight on the timeless culinary expertise of Delia Smith. This delectable cake, featured in Delia's Cakes, offers a perfect blend of sweetness and texture, making it a favorite for many.

Brief Description and Cultural Context Banana cake, a staple in British baking, has evolved over time into a beloved treat enjoyed across the globe. Its roots can be traced back to the introduction of bananas in the UK, which inspired a plethora of recipes showcasing this versatile fruit. Delia Smith's Banana and Walnut Loaf is a testament to the traditional British baking, delivering comfort and flavor in each slice.

Ingredients for the Banana and Walnut Loaf

225g plain flour
2 level teaspoons baking powder
40g butter, at room temperature
40g lard, at room temperature
1 large egg, beaten
110g caster sugar
4 medium bananas, peeled
50g walnuts, roughly chopped
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
1 rounded tablespoon demerara sugar

Preparation Instructions

Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your loaf tin as per the requirements.
Sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl, then add the room-temperature butter, lard, beaten egg, and caster sugar, combining them until you achieve a sandy texture.
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas before whisking them into the cake mixture along with the orange and lemon zests and chopped walnuts.
Transfer the mixture into the prepared tin, sprinkle with demerara sugar, and bake. Allow to cool before serving.

Storage and Reheating This cake can be stored in an airtight container, preferably in its liner, to maintain its moistness and flavor. If needed, gently reheat slices in the microwave for a short burst to refresh.

Nutritional Information Banana and walnut loaf is rich in carbohydrates, with bananas providing potassium and walnuts offering healthy fats and protein. However, for detailed nutritional values, it's advisable to consult a nutrition calculator based on the specific brands of ingredients used.

FAQ about the Banana and Walnut Loaf

Can I substitute the lard? Yes, the recipe mentions that spreadable butter can be used as an alternative to lard.
Is this cake suitable for freezing? Yes, it can be frozen. Wrap well or store in an airtight container.

Delia Smith's approach to this Banana and Walnut Loaf not only showcases her skill in creating recipes that resonate with both novice and experienced bakers but also emphasizes the joy of baking with simple, wholesome ingredients. Enjoy this delightful cake with your afternoon tea or as a treat any time of the day.

Original recipe by Delia Smith.

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