Simple Charlotte Russe

Ethel Parks Glorious  Simple Charlotte Russe the girls couldn't leave without tasting!

The History...The dish, which falls into the larger category of “charlottes” (molded desserts), was likely named by French chef and noted Russophile,Marie Antoine Carême. Considered by many to be the father of French cuisine, Carême included a recipe for “Charlottes à la Parisienne or à la Russe” in his 1815 cookbook The Royal Parisian Pastry Cook and Confectioner.

The Set up:  It's lunch time for the girls. But can Ethel cook? With the help of Mrs Patmore anything is possible. Lord G ruined the day, however, bursting in to reveal that Ethel is or was a fallen woman. Already livid about the baby Sybil debate, and about Matthew finally broaching the fact that Downton is run about as efficiently as a week one Apprentice task, his Lordship angrily demanded that everyone come straight home.

Cora stood her ground. Blaming Lord G for his daughter's death was one thing, but openly and knowingly chowing down on a prostitute's salmon mousse? Surely their marriage was over!

But what about dessert??? The Dowager has a secret love for a good Charlotte!

                           

The Cook:

 

The Recipe:

Happy Diabetic Strawberry Charlotte Russe

Ingredients:

• 2 envelopes gelatin
• 1/2 cup cold water
• 1 cup mashed fresh strawberries
• 1/2 - 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries ( to taste)
• 1 cup splenda 
• 2 cups whipping cream
• 1 tsp vanilla
• 2 packages ladyfingers (48)

Directions:

Soften gelatin in cold water 5-10 min. Place over hot water to dissolve. Heat mashed berries with Splenda until it's dissolved. Add to gelatin and mix well. Let cool to room temperature.
Meanwhile, line bottom and sides of 9" or 10" springform pan with ladyfingers. Whip cream till stiff. Add vanilla and gently fold into cooled strawberry mixture, blending well. Fold in sliced strawberries, reserving some to decorate the top. Fill pan with strawberry mixture. Chill several hours or overnight.

         

Taste of Downton Life:

Recipes for eating and living better from “The Happy Diabetic”

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