Ingredients
Meringues:
- 6 large egg whites, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups caster sugar (320 g)
- About 1/2 tsp red gel food colouring
- A pinch of fine salt
- 1 1/2 tsp cornflour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
To Serve:
- Pomegranate seeds, removed
- 250 ml - 350 ml cream, whipped
Pomegranate Syrup:
- 1 cup freshly squeezed pomegranate juice
- 1/2 cup sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Tray: Preheat your oven to 140°C (275°F) and line a baking tray with a silicone baking mat or baking paper to prevent sticking.
- Whisk Egg Whites: Using an electric mixer, whisk the egg whites until they reach firm peaks. This means when you lift the whisk, the peaks stand straight without drooping.
- Add Salt and Sugar Gradually: While the mixer is running, add a pinch of fine salt and then slowly add the caster sugar one tablespoon at a time. Continue whisking on medium-high speed for 10 to 12 minutes until the mixture is glossy and thick.
- Incorporate Cornflour and Vanilla: Add the cornflour and vanilla extract at the end and gently mix them through just to combine.
- Swirl in Food Colouring: Add the red gel food colouring and carefully fold it in by hand using a gentle swirling motion to create the pink swirls without fully blending the colour.
- Shape Meringues: Using two spoons, scoop dollops of the meringue mixture onto the prepared tray, shaping them into rounds with lovely swirls. This may be a bit tricky, but the slightly irregular shapes add to their charm.
- Bake Meringues: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. After baking, turn off the oven and leave the meringues inside with the door slightly ajar for 15 minutes to dry out and cool gradually.
- Make Pomegranate Syrup: In a small saucepan, bring the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice and sugar to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens to your desired consistency. It will thicken more as it cools.
- Serve: Serve the pink meringues topped with whipped cream, a drizzle of the pomegranate syrup, and sprinkle with fresh pomegranate seeds for a stunning presentation.
Notes
- Store any leftover meringues in a sealed container at room temperature; they keep well for up to a week but are best enjoyed within a day or two for optimal texture.
- The texture of the meringues will soften and may become chewy over time, so enjoy them fresh for crispiness.
- You can adjust the amount of food colouring to create deeper or lighter pink swirls as desired.
- When folding in the cornflour and vanilla, do so gently to avoid deflating the meringue mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: International