Dorset Delight Meringue

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional French meringue recipe is enhanced with Dorset-specific ingredients and flavors. The addition of locally sourced honey and elderflower syrup adds a unique twist to the classic meringue, infusing it with the essence of Dorset cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for French meringue, so you can check it out.

• 4 large egg whites 4 large egg whites
• 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar 200g (1 cup) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon Dorset honey 1 tablespoon Dorset honey
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• Clotted cream, for serving Clotted cream, for serving
• Elderflower syrup, for drizzling Elderflower syrup, for drizzling

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 62g, 61g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 120°C (250°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a clean, dry mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until soft peaks form.
3. 3.
   Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to whisk until the mixture becomes glossy and stiff peaks form.
4. 4.
   Gently fold in the Dorset honey, white vinegar, and cornstarch until well combined.
5. 5.
   Spoon the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming individual meringue nests or a large pavlova.
6. 6.
   Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meringue is crisp on the outside and slightly soft on the inside.
7. 7.
   Once cooled, serve the meringue with a generous dollop of clotted cream and a drizzle of elderflower syrup.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dorset honey — Use locally sourced honey from Dorset to capture the unique flavors of the region. If unavailable, opt for a high-quality honey with a mild floral taste.

Tips & Tricks

• Ensure that the mixing bowl and whisk are completely clean and free of any grease to achieve the best results when whisking the egg whites.
• Allow the meringue to cool completely in the oven with the door slightly ajar to prevent it from collapsing.
• For added texture, sprinkle crushed Dorset shortbread or toasted almonds over the meringue before serving.

Serving advice

Serve the Dorset Delight Meringue as a show-stopping dessert at afternoon tea or as a sweet finale to a special dinner. It pairs beautifully with a cup of Dorset tea or a glass of sparkling elderflower wine.

Presentation advice

Present the meringue on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh edible flowers or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The golden-brown meringue nests or pavlova base, topped with a dollop of clotted cream and a drizzle of elderflower syrup, will create an elegant and inviting dessert.