February 20, 2013

Pie in the Sky: A Recipe for a Real American Lady



Sweet as pie and cute as button, we welcomed poet and pie goddess 
Kate Lebo to come and show us a little something about the poetry of pie.



Of course we couldn't pass up the opportunity to dress her up in timeless silhouettes. These american made staples pay homage to mid-century Americana almost as much as your grandma's secret apple pie recipe. But don't worry, we are going to share with you our secret recipe for a gorgeous bombshell look that will make mouths water and your taste-buds cheer.








Not only does Kate have a way with words and sweet things, she also embodies the true essence of the feminine spirit. We decided to take some poetic licence and show you some poetry in pictures. From the kitchen to the dance floor, these dresses transcend the iconic girl and transform her into a beautiful lady.





If you have a hankering for more about Kate Lebo's pie and poetry, 
you can find information about her upcoming book
 ---A Commonplace Book of Pie-- due out in October 2013.


And to reward you for staying for dessert, here is a recipe for you from 

Shaker Lemon Pie
1 double crust pie recipe (use your favorite or learn a new one at Pie School)
2 large lemons (Meyer lemons work best; the thinner-skinned the better)
2 cups sugar
4 large eggs
pinch salt
egg white wash or milk
sugar for dusting


Wash lemons and slice in half lengthwise, keeping the peel on. Rest the flat surface on a cutting board and cut the lemon as thin as you can into half-moon slices. Remove seeds as you go. Some people use a mandolin for this job. I like my fingertips too much, so I use a super-sharp chef’s knife.

In a medium bowl, pour two cups of sugar over the lemons and let sit overnight. This is important. If you use the lemons too soon, they won’t be nearly sweet enough. After the first hour, stir them once. After that, stir very little.

Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Roll out the bottom crust, place it in the pie pan, and refrigerate it while you mix the filling.

In a small bowl, beat four eggs well. Add them and the salt to the lemon and sugar and mix gently until combined.

Roll out the top crust. Pour the filling into the bottom crust, then cover with the top crust, crimp an upstanding edge and cut vents. The top crust will wobble a bit, like a duvet on a waterbed. Some of the lemon filing may peek through the vents. That’s just fine. Brush with egg white wash or milk and sprinkle with sugar. Bake on 450 for 15 minutes, then lower the temperature to 375 degrees and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Rotate the pie front to back halfway through baking for even browning. Cool on a wire rack and serve warm or room temperature.