Monday, July 7, 2008

Meringue Bird's Nest

This is an outstanding summer dessert. Anyone with Celiac will tell you, one of the most difficult dietary restrictions is the dessert menu. This will make non-restricted diets salivate! :) This recipe has been compared to "food poetry" by some of my friends!!

Ingredients:
1 tsp. corn starch
1 tsp white wine vinegar
1 Tbsp hot water
2 Tbsp sugar/egg white used
Egg whites (6 minimum) - depending on how many nests you want to make

Beat egg whites with half sugar until stiff (approx. 5-7 minutes). This is easiest with a standing mixer (like a kitchen aid). When beaters are lifted the meringue peaks should not fall.

Beat in corn starch, vinegar, and hot water

Fold in the remaining sugar with a spatula. Be careful not to stir or beat - this will "deflate" your meringue.

Using a pastry bag pipe out small nest shaped meringues onto parchment covered baking sheet. If you do not have a pastry bag - simply use a spoon to dollop meringue and create a hole in the center.

Bake at 250 for approx 3-4 hours. I leave them in the oven overnight to complete the drying process. They should be crisp and lightly browned. Store in an airtight dry container for 2-3 weeks.

Fill with fresh whipping cream and fresh berries. Another option is to use frozen berries, and create a warm sauce: 2 cups berries, 1/4 c. sugar over medium heat on the stove until berries are defrosted and sugar is completely dissolved.

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