Nigella Lemon Shortbread
Delve into the world of baking with a classic treat - the Lemon Shortbread. This delightful biscuit, with its zesty lemon flavor and buttery texture, is a beloved recipe by many, including renowned culinary figures like Nigella Lawson and Mary Berry. Here, we blend insights from both chefs to guide you through making your own Lemon Shortbread at home.
Brief Description of the Recipe Lemon Shortbread combines the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture of traditional shortbread with the fresh zestiness of lemon. It's a simple yet elegant biscuit that pairs perfectly with tea or as a standalone snack.
Cultural or Historical Context Shortbread is a Scottish classic that has been enjoyed for centuries. The addition of lemon zest gives it a modern twist, bringing a refreshing tang to the biscuit.
Ingredients for the Lemon Shortbread
- Butter: 175 grams (Nigella Lawson) / 250g (Mary Berry)
- Caster Sugar: 70 grams plus extra for sprinkles (Nigella Lawson) / 110g (Mary Berry)
- Lemon Zest: From 3 lemons (Nigella Lawson) / Zest of 1 lemon (Mary Berry)
- Flour: Mary Berry recommends a combination of 250g plain flour and 110g semolina for a crunchy texture.
- Ground Almonds: 75 grams (Nigella Lawson)
- Optional: A few drops of lemon essence for an extra lemony kick (Mary Berry)
Preparation Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180C (Nigella Lawson) / 160°C (Mary Berry).
- Cream the butter and sugar until soft and fluffy, then incorporate the lemon zest.
- For Nigella's recipe, add white rice flour and ground almonds to the mix. For Mary's, sift in the flour and semolina.
- Knead the dough lightly, roll it out, and shape as desired.
- Bake for about 10-15 minutes (Nigella Lawson) / 35 minutes (Mary Berry) until golden and set.
- Sprinkle with caster or demerara sugar while still warm.
Storage and Reheating Store your Lemon Shortbread in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its crispness. They can last for up to a week. For a fresh-out-of-the-oven taste, gently reheat in the oven at a low temperature.
Nutritional Information A single biscuit (approx. 20g) generally contains around 40 calories, 1.9g of fat, 5.2g of carbohydrates, 0.8g of protein, 0.1g of fiber, and a trace amount of salt.
FAQ about the Lemon Shortbread
- Can I make this gluten-free? Yes, by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free alternative like rice flour, as suggested in Nigella Lawson's recipe.
- Can I freeze Lemon Shortbread? Absolutely, they freeze well. Just thaw at room temperature before serving.
Enjoy crafting these exquisite Lemon Shortbread biscuits, a recipe inspired by the culinary expertise of Nigella Lawson and Mary Berry. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, they're sure to impress.
Original recipe inspiration from Nigella Lawson and Mary Berry.