Hairy Bikers Lemon Meringue Pie Recipe

Dive into the delightful world of the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Meringue Pie, a classic dessert that combines the tangy freshness of lemon with the sweet, airy lightness of meringue. This pie is a beloved recipe from the dynamic duo known for their comforting and hearty dishes. The Hairy Bikers, Si King and Dave Myers, have shared their secret to creating this perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

Hairy Bikers' Lemon Meringue Pie: A Culinary Delight

Cultural or Historical Context

The Lemon Meringue Pie is a timeless dessert, popular in British cuisine as well as globally. Its origins can be traced back to the 18th century, evolving over time to become the dessert we know and love today. The Hairy Bikers have put their unique spin on it, ensuring a deep-filled lemony center and a fluffy, crisp meringue topping.

Ingredients List

• For the Pastry:
  • 200g plain flour
  • 1 tsp caster sugar
  • 125g cold butter, cubed
  • 1 free-range egg, beaten
• For the Lemon Filling:
  • 50g cornflour
  • 350ml cold water
  • 200g caster sugar
  • Juice and zest of 4 lemons
  • 1 whole egg plus 3 egg yolks, free-range
• For the Meringue Topping:
  • 3 free-range egg whites
  • 175g caster sugar
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract

Preparation Instructions

1. Pastry Preparation: Combine flour, sugar, and butter in a food processor until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add the beaten egg to form a dough, roll out, and line a fluted flan tin. Chill for 30 minutes.
2. Lemon Filling: Dissolve cornflour in water, add lemon juice, zest, and sugar in a saucepan, and heat until thickened. Cool slightly before adding the beaten eggs. Pour into the pastry case.
3. Meringue Topping: Whisk egg whites to stiff peaks, gradually add sugar and vanilla, and spread over the lemon filling. Bake until the meringue is golden.

Storage and Reheating

Store the pie in the refrigerator to keep the filling set and the meringue firm. For best results, enjoy within 2-3 days. Reheating is not recommended as it can affect the texture of the meringue.

Nutritional Information

This dessert, while indulgent, contains a significant amount of sugar. When enjoyed as part of a balanced diet, it offers a delightful treat. For specific dietary needs or restrictions, consider adjusting the ingredients accordingly.

FAQ about the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Meringue Pie

• Can I make the pie in advance? Yes, you can prepare the pastry and lemon filling a day ahead. However, the meringue is best added and baked on the day of serving.
• Is there a way to prevent the meringue from weeping? Ensure the lemon filling is cool before adding the meringue, and avoid storing the pie in a very cold refrigerator.
• Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be used in a pinch.

For those who love the combination of tart lemon and sweet meringue, the Hairy Bikers' Lemon Meringue Pie is a must-try recipe. Whether you're an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress with its perfect balance of flavors and textures.

The original recipe is credited to the Hairy Bikers and can be explored for more detailed instructions and tips​​​​.