Nigella Lemon Mousse

Name: Nigella's Lemon Mousse
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 large lemons; 150g caster sugar; 4 large eggs, separated; 250ml double cream

Dive into the zesty world of Nigella Lawson's Lemon Mousse, a refreshing and tangy dessert perfect for citrus lovers. This delightful mousse brings a burst of lemony freshness in every spoonful, making it an ideal choice for a light and elegant dessert.

Nigella Lawson Lemon Mousse: A Brief Overview

The Lemon Mousse by Nigella Lawson is a creamy and tangy dessert that combines the vibrant flavors of lemon with the silky smoothness of mousse. This dessert stands out for its use of fresh lemons, eggs, sugar, and gelatine, creating a balance between tartness and sweetness. It's a testament to Nigella Lawson's ability to create simple yet sophisticated desserts that appeal to a wide range of palates.

Cultural and Historical Context

Nigella Lawson, an esteemed British food writer and television chef, is known for her accessible approach to cooking, emphasizing flavor and enjoyment over complication. The Lemon Mousse is a reflection of her philosophy, offering a dessert that is both easy to prepare and delightfully sophisticated. It embodies the essence of British dessert-making, where simplicity meets elegance.

Ingredients for the Lemon Mousse

To prepare Nigella Lawson's Lemon Mousse, you will need the following:

Lemons: 4 (grated rind and juice of 3)
Large eggs: 8
Caster sugar: 250 grams
Gelatine: 1½ packets
Double cream: 450 millilitres

For the optional raspberry sauce:

Raspberries: 750 grams
Icing sugar: 100 grams

Preparation Instructions

The process involves several key steps: whisking egg yolks with sugar until thick, dissolving gelatine in lemon juice, combining these mixtures, and finally folding in whipped cream and stiff egg whites. The mousse is then chilled until set, offering a texture that's both creamy and airy.

Storage and Reheating

Lemon Mousse is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. As it doesn't freeze well due to its delicate texture, it's not recommended for freezing. For best results, keep it chilled and consume within 48 hours.

Nutritional Information

While specific nutritional information depends on the exact ingredients and portion sizes, this dessert is rich in citrus vitamins, dairy proteins, and sugars, making it a treat best enjoyed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nigella Lawson Lemon Mousse

Can I make Lemon Mousse in advance? Yes, it's perfect for preparing ahead of time. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.
Can I use bottled lemon juice? Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor and zest.
Is there a substitute for gelatine? Agar-agar can be used as a vegetarian alternative, but the quantities and results might vary.

Nigella Lawson's Lemon Mousse is more than just a dessert; it's a celebration of simplicity and flavor, embodying the essence of what makes her recipes so beloved. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Lemon Mousse promises to bring a touch of elegance and a burst of lemony freshness to your table.