Romanian Lemon Cream

Romanian Lemon Cream Recipe

Region / culture: Romania | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Romanian Lemon Cream is a delightful and refreshing dessert that is perfect for any occasion. This creamy and tangy treat is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you wanting more.

History

This traditional Romanian dessert has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple yet delicious recipe that has stood the test of time. The combination of creamy milk, zesty lemon, and sweet sugar creates a perfect balance of flavors that is sure to please any palate.

Ingredients

0.5 liter of milk
peel and juice of 0.5 big lemon
4 eggs
2 cups of sugar
3 tbsp of flour

How to prepare

In a saucepan of boiling milk, add the peel and juice of half a large lemon. Cover with a lid and let it sit on the table for 15 minutes.
Whisk the eggs with sugar and flour. Gradually pour in the milk while constantly mixing with a spoon.
Place the saucepan on medium heat and continue stirring to prevent sticking and the formation of lumps. Remove from heat and beat for some time.
If the cream curdles, transfer the mixture into a cold bowl. Add cold cream and beat until the lumps disappear.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding a splash of rum or brandy to the mixture for a boozy kick. You can also experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lime or orange, for a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When making Romanian Lemon Cream, it is important to constantly stir the mixture to prevent lumps from forming. Be sure to gradually pour in the milk while whisking the eggs, sugar, and flour to ensure a smooth and creamy consistency. If the cream curdles, simply transfer the mixture to a cold bowl and beat until the lumps disappear.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Romanian Lemon Cream chilled in individual dessert cups or bowls. Garnish with a slice of lemon or a sprinkle of lemon zest for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

When making Romanian Lemon Cream, be sure to cook the mixture on medium heat and constantly stir to prevent sticking and lumps from forming. It is important to follow the recipe instructions carefully to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have fresh lemons on hand, you can use bottled lemon juice as a substitute. You can also use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free version of this dessert.

Make Ahead Tips

Romanian Lemon Cream can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply cover the dessert with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent it from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

To make your Romanian Lemon Cream look more appealing, you can garnish it with a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of powdered sugar. Serve the dessert in elegant glass bowls or cups for a sophisticated presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This creamy and tangy dessert pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. You can also serve it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast of flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Romanian Lemon Cream in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the dessert for a few seconds until warm, or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Romanian Lemon Cream contains approximately 250 calories. This dessert is a relatively low-calorie treat that is perfect for indulging in without feeling guilty.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Romanian Lemon Cream contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. This dessert is a great source of energy and is perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings.

Fats

Romanian Lemon Cream is a relatively low-fat dessert, with each serving containing only 5 grams of fat. This makes it a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy without worrying about your waistline.

Proteins

Each serving of Romanian Lemon Cream contains approximately 6 grams of protein. This dessert is a great way to add some extra protein to your diet while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Vitamins and minerals

Romanian Lemon Cream is a good source of vitamin C, thanks to the zesty lemon juice. It also contains calcium from the milk, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.

Alergens

This recipe contains eggs and milk, which are common allergens. If you have allergies to these ingredients, it is best to avoid this dessert.

Summary

Overall, Romanian Lemon Cream is a delicious and nutritious dessert that is perfect for any occasion. With a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this creamy treat is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings while providing essential nutrients for your body.

Summary

Romanian Lemon Cream is a classic dessert that is loved by many for its creamy texture and zesty flavor. With a few simple ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can enjoy this delicious treat at home anytime. So why not give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a taste of Romania?

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Romanian Lemon Cream. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Elena in her quaint little village in the heart of Romania. Elena was known for her incredible culinary skills, and I always looked forward to the delicious meals she would prepare for me during my visits.

On this particular day, Elena invited me into her kitchen to help her prepare a special dessert for her family. As we worked side by side, she shared with me the story behind the recipe for Romanian Lemon Cream.

She told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, originating from her great-grandmother who was renowned for her exceptional cooking. Elena's great-grandmother was a talented chef who had traveled far and wide, collecting recipes and culinary secrets from various cultures and regions.

One day, while exploring the bustling markets of Istanbul, she stumbled upon a small, hidden cafe serving a delectable lemon cream dessert. Intrigued by the unique flavors and textures of the dish, she struck up a conversation with the cafe owner and managed to persuade him to share his recipe with her.

Over the years, Elena's great-grandmother had perfected the recipe, adding her own twist to it and creating a version that was truly her own. She passed it down to her daughter, who then passed it down to Elena's mother, and finally to Elena herself.

As Elena and I worked together in the kitchen, she shared with me the secret ingredients and techniques that made this dessert so special. The creamy texture of the lemon custard, the tangy flavor of the fresh lemon zest, and the subtle hint of cinnamon all came together to create a dessert that was truly unforgettable.

I watched in awe as Elena expertly whipped the cream, folded in the lemon custard, and sprinkled a generous amount of cinnamon on top. The dessert was then placed in the refrigerator to chill, allowing the flavors to meld together and develop into a harmonious blend of sweet and tangy.

As we sat down to enjoy the dessert later that evening, I was transported back to that bustling market in Istanbul, imagining the sights and sounds that Elena's great-grandmother must have experienced all those years ago. The dessert was a symphony of flavors, each bite a burst of citrusy goodness that left me craving more.

After that day, I knew that I had to learn how to make Romanian Lemon Cream for myself. I spent hours in my own kitchen, experimenting with different variations of the recipe until I finally found the perfect balance of flavors and textures that matched Elena's version.

Now, whenever I make Romanian Lemon Cream, I am reminded of that special day spent in Elena's kitchen, learning the secrets of a recipe that had been passed down through generations. It is a dish that not only delights the taste buds but also warms the heart, connecting me to a rich culinary heritage that I am proud to carry on.