If this is your first time hearing about a day to commemorate key lime pie, do not be surprised because like most of us, you are not the only one. Key lime pie is an American dessert pie made of key lime juice, egg yolks and sweetened condensed milk in a pie crust. Before we dwell further into the centre of the pie, let us get to know the difference between key lime, Persian lime and Calamansi lime.
The Calamansi lime is the smallest of the three, with a rounded shape. Unlike its other cousins, Calamansi lime’s flesh is golden yellow and tastes less acidic and sweeter. To most Malaysian household, it is a kitchen staple. The Persian lime is a typical, bright green lime that can be found in many grocery stores around the world.
The key lime differs from the former in several ways. It is smaller in size and contains more seeds than Persian limes. Its flavour is more intense and has a slight bitterness, which is the key to a key lime pie.
The origin of key lime pie began in the land of the free, but its original recipe creator is uncertain to many. However, it is believed that the first key lime pie may have been made by William Curry’s cook, Aunt Sally. William Curry was a ship salvager and Key West’s first millionaire.
Today, it is considered a staple dessert in Florida, America. The Floridians really love their key lime pie that in 2006, the Florida State Legislation officially declared the key lime pie the state dessert in 2006.To many Malaysians, pie-eating culture is still in its adolescent stage, especially western confections. Given our pride and loyalty towards local confections, choosing between a slice of bingka pandan and a slice of key lime pie is an easy task.
Nevertheless, there is a good reason why Floridians really love key lime pie. In fact, it is the true yellowish colour and aromatic scent of key lime that give key lime pie its natural hue and distinct taste. If you have never tried key lime pie before, you should head to the nearest confectionery and indulge in a slice.
A classic key lime pie recipe requires five essential ingredients, namely a homemade graham cracker crust, key lime juice, lime zest, sour cream and sweetened condensed milk. With little ingredients, it is important to use fresh ingredients and maintain the right proportion.
If you are a newbie in baking, fret not because unlike other pie, you don’t have to bake a key lime pie. The acid in the key lime juice reacts with the protein in the milk to thicken the mixture. All you need is a place call anywhere with refrigeration. So, let’s suspend the storytelling for now and let’s get down to the business of baking.
Ingredients (6 servings):
- 2 cups of crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
- 1 stick butter, melted
- 1 can of sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated)
- ½ cup of key lime juice, bottled or fresh
- Whipped cream
- Optional toppings: fresh berries, slivered almonds, toasted coconut
Directions:
- Combine the cracker crumbs or digestive biscuits and melted butter into the bottom of an 8- or 9-inch pan. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk the sweetened condensed milk with the key lime juice until the mixture becomes thick.
- Pour the mixture into the pie shell and chill for several hours.
- To serve, slice and garnish with whipped cream and any preferred toppings.
*Take note that there are many variations of key lime pie recipe and you may explore more on the Internet.
Where can you find key lime pie in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, there is a variety of flavourful desserts such as pie in our country. From the sweet fillings of key lime or durian to the savoury fillings of chicken curry or beef rendang, you can have pie during breakfast, lunch, tea break, dinner or supper.
If you are looking for a pastry shop to indulge in a key lime pie or any other pies, there are several top spots that you can go to.
1. Acme Bar and Coffee
Acme Bar and Coffee or ABC is an award-winning bistro that embodies perfection in terms of food, design and atmosphere. With their chef’s excellent culinary skills and creativity, Acme is always ready to serve your palate beyond your expectation. Located at The Troika, Persiaran KLCC, their variation of pies and desserts are a must-try during any time of the day.
2. Just Heavenly Cafe
Another spot worth visiting is Just Heavenly Café. Located in Bangsar Shopping Centre, it is well known for serving some of the best cakes in Kuala Lumpur. Other than cakes, a slice of their pies will get you falling head over heels in no time. Their Key Lime Pie tastes close to perfection with its buttery lime cake layer and a generous amount of toppings.
3. Just Pie
As a homegrown startup, Just Pie sells sweet and savoury pies. Equipped with friendly and experienced staffs, Just Pie serves handmade pies using only the freshest ingredients. Located at Mid Valley City, their menu of pies ranges from Chicken Mushroom, Chicken Cheese, Lamb Stew, to Apple Crumble, Oreo Tiramisu and many more.
For more information on other pastry shops or if you are craving for some pies, you can always log on to foodpanda and get them delivered right to your doorstep.
