Dish

Meringue tart

Meringue tart is a sweet and tangy dessert that is perfect for any occasion. The buttery shortcrust pastry base is filled with a layer of tangy lemon curd, which is then topped with a fluffy meringue. The meringue is lightly browned on top and has a soft, marshmallow-like texture. The tart is typically served chilled and can be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack.

European cuisine› Northern European cuisine› Cuisines of the [[Islands of the North Atlantic]] (IONA)› British cuisine

Dessert› Tart

Origins and history

Meringue tart is believed to have originated in England in the 19th century. It quickly became a popular dessert in Europe and has since spread to other parts of the world.

Dietary considerations

Vegetarian

Variations

There are many variations of meringue tart, some of which include using lime or orange curd instead of lemon curd, or adding fresh berries to the filling. Some recipes also call for a graham cracker crust instead of a shortcrust pastry base.

Presentation and garnishing

Meringue tart is typically presented on a decorative plate or platter. It can be garnished with fresh berries or a dusting of powdered sugar. To prevent the meringue from weeping, it is important to spread it all the way to the edges of the tart and to bake it until it is lightly browned on top. Additionally, it is recommended to let the tart cool completely before slicing and serving.

Tips & Tricks

For best results, make sure all the ingredients are at room temperature before starting. When separating the egg whites, make sure there is no yolk in the mixture as this can prevent the meringue from forming properly. It is also important to use a clean, dry bowl and beaters when making the meringue.

Side-dishes

Meringue tart is typically enjoyed on its own, but it can be served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It pairs well with a cup of tea or a glass of sparkling wine.