From the Kitchen: Fresh Madeleines with Lemon Curd

 

A friend recently told me about madeleines, those charming, shell-shaped French cookies. I had never tasted one before, but their adorable appearance sparked my curiosity. After my first bite, I instantly understood the allure. That tender crumb, the delicate lemon flavor—it’s simply divine. It’s no wonder Marcel Proust waxes poetic about madeleines in “Remembrance of Things Past.” For him, the taste and smell of a madeleine dipped in tea unlocked a flood of childhood memories. Inspired by this notion, I decided to try my hand at capturing the essence of these nostalgic treats through my lens. Through photography, I sought to convey not just the deliciousness of Madeleines with Lemon Curd, but also the emotions and memories they evoke.

The Madeleine Mystique

These delightful morsels trace their origins to the quaint town of Commercy in northeastern France.  Legend has it that a young kitchen maid named Madeleine improvised the recipe for a visiting duke in the 18th century, inadvertently creating a culinary classic.

The madeleine’s signature scalloped shell shape is not merely for aesthetics; it actually serves a purpose. The ridges help to create a crisp exterior while maintaining a soft, cake-like center. Traditionally, madeleines are flavored with lemon zest, a nod to their namesake, Madeleine Paulmier. However, over time, variations have emerged, incorporating flavors like vanilla, almond, chocolate, and even savory additions like herbs and cheese.

Photographing Madeleines

For my Madeleine photoshoot, I opted for strobes to have complete control over the mood and atmosphere. I strategically positioned the lights to cast both soft, diffused shadows and sharp highlights, accentuating the madeleines’ delicate curves and textures.

In terms of composition, I experimented with various arrangements of madeleines and lemon curd. Some were drizzled with a generous amount of curd, others had a dollop perched atop, while some were simply accompanied by a spoonful. This variety added visual interest and showcased the versatility of these two elements. For example, a close-up of a madeleine drizzled with lemon curd emphasizes the luxuriousness of the curd, while a photo of a madeleine alongside a dollop of curd highlights the simplicity and elegance of the pairing.

To evoke a sense of nostalgia, I incorporated vintage props like mismatched china plates, linen napkins, and antique silverware. Rustic wooden backgrounds and weathered surfaces added to the charm and character of the scene.

Close-up shots were essential to capture the intricate details. I zoomed in on the madeleine’s crumbly texture, the vibrant flecks of lemon zest, and the luscious swirls of the lemon curd. These close-ups provided a glimpse into the irresistible allure of these sweet treats.

Power of Food Photography

As I gaze upon my final photographs, I’m reminded of the power of food photography to evoke emotions and transport us to another time and place. The humble madeleine, paired with the luscious lemon curd, transcends its role as a mere pastry and becomes a vessel for memories, nostalgia, and pure sensory delight.

I encourage you to embark on your own madeleine photography adventure. Embrace the challenge of capturing not just the visual appeal but also the essence of these charming treats. Share your creations with the world, and let’s celebrate the simple joys that food and photography can bring.

And remember, if you have a project that could benefit from my unique perspective and artistic vision, I’d love to hear from you. Let’s collaborate and create something truly special together. You can reach me at mica@micamccook.com.

So, let’s raise a glass of lemonade (or a cup of tea) to madeleines, lemon curd, and the memories they hold dear. Cheers to the art of capturing sweetness, one frame at a time.