Molecular Meringue Delight

Ingredients

In this molecular gastronomy adaptation, the traditional meringue tart is transformed into whimsical meringue spheres using the spherification technique. The custard filling is also infused with aromatic flavors to enhance the overall taste experience. We alse have the original recipe for Meringue tart, so you can check it out.

• 200g (7oz) egg whites 200g (7oz) egg whites
• 200g (7oz) sugar 200g (7oz) sugar
• 100g (3.5oz) water 100g (3.5oz) water
• 200g (7oz) heavy cream 200g (7oz) heavy cream
• 4g (0.14oz) agar-agar 4g (0.14oz) agar-agar
• 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped 1 vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
• Zest of 1 citrus fruit (lemon, orange, or lime) Zest of 1 citrus fruit (lemon, orange, or lime)
• Fresh berries, for garnish Fresh berries, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 300 kcal / 1255 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 20g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the water and sugar. Heat over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved completely. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. 2.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Slowly pour in the sugar syrup while continuing to whisk until the mixture is glossy and holds its shape.
3. 3.
   Prepare a cold water bath. Fill a large bowl with ice and water.
4. 4.
   In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, agar-agar, vanilla bean, and citrus zest. Heat over medium heat until the mixture reaches a simmer. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
5. 5.
   Using a syringe or dropper, carefully drop small portions of the meringue mixture into the cold water bath. The meringue will form into spheres as it sets. Let the spheres sit in the water bath for a few minutes to fully set.
6. 6.
   Remove the spheres from the water bath and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
7. 7.
   Fill individual serving dishes with the custard filling and place the meringue spheres on top.
8. 8.
   Garnish with fresh berries and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Egg whites — Ensure that the egg whites are at room temperature before whisking to achieve the best volume and stability in the meringue.
• Agar-agar — Follow the instructions on the packaging for the correct usage and proportions. Agar-agar sets quickly, so work efficiently when creating the meringue spheres.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different flavors for the custard filling, such as lavender, matcha, or coconut, to add a unique twist to the dessert.
• For a more dramatic presentation, serve the meringue spheres on a bed of dry ice to create a captivating fog effect.
• If you don't have a syringe or dropper, you can use a small spoon to carefully drop the meringue mixture into the water bath.

Serving advice

Serve the Whimsical Meringue Clouds immediately after assembling to ensure the meringue spheres retain their delicate texture. Pair with a cup of aromatic tea or a glass of sparkling wine to enhance the overall experience.

Presentation advice

Arrange the meringue spheres in a visually appealing pattern on top of the custard filling. Garnish with fresh berries and a sprinkle of edible flowers for an elegant and whimsical presentation.