Lemon Pie. Mrs. G. M. Beicher. Recipe

Lemon pie is a classic dessert loved by many, known for its refreshing tangy flavor and creamy texture. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own touch to make it even more special. One such cherished recipe comes from Mrs. G. M. Beicher, who took great pride in her lemon pie.

The history of this recipe dates back to the early 20th century when lemons became more accessible and affordable. Lemons were highly sought after due to their ability to add a burst of flavor to various dishes and desserts. The simplicity and versatility of lemons made them a popular choice for creating delicious pies.

Now, let's dive into the recipe to make Mrs. G. M. Beicher's spectacular lemon pie.

Ingredients:
- 1 lemon
- 1 cup of sugar
- 2 eggs (yolks and whites separated)
- 1 cup of water
- 2 heaping tablespoons of flour
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (for meringue)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Start by preparing the crust for your lemon pie. You can use store-bought pie crust or make your own from scratch.
3. In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar, flour, and water. Stir well to dissolve any lumps.
4. Zest the lemon and set the zest aside. Cut the lemon in half and squeeze out all the juice.
5. Add the lemon zest and juice to the saucepan with the sugar, flour, and water mixture.
6. Separate the eggs, placing the yolks in a bowl and the whites in a separate clean bowl.
7. Whisk the egg yolks until they are well combined, and then add them to the saucepan with the other ingredients.
8. Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. This typically takes about 5-7 minutes.
9. Once the filling has thickened, remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the mixture into the prepared pie crust.
10. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling is set.
11. While the pie is baking, prepare the meringue topping. In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks.
12. Gradually add the tablespoon of sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
13. Once the pie has finished baking, remove it from the oven and spread the meringue over the top. Ensure that the meringue covers the entire surface of the pie and reaches the edges to prevent any shrinkage during baking.
14. Return the pie to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the meringue is lightly golden.
15. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the pie to set.

Fun fact: Lemon pie is often associated with the summertime due to its refreshing taste. It is a popular choice for picnics, barbecues, and outdoor gatherings. The tartness of lemons also acts as a natural palate cleanser, making lemon pie an excellent choice after a heavy meal.

Similar to lemon pie, there are other delectable citrus-based pies to explore. Some popular alternatives include key lime pie, orange cream pie, and grapefruit pie. Each of these pies offers its own unique twist, highlighting the distinct flavors of their respective citrus fruits.

So, grab a slice of Mrs. G. M. Beicher's lemon pie, sit back, and enjoy the burst of tangy sweetness that this beloved dessert brings to your taste buds.