
What makes a dessert truly unforgettable? Is it the texture, the balance of sweetness, or the artistic presentation that captures the eye before the first bite? This elegant meringue flower brings together crisp, airy shells with a vibrant fruity center, creating a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious. Light, flavorful, and visually refined, it is the perfect way to end a special meal.
- Do you prefer fruity desserts or chocolate-based desserts for special occasions?
- What type of coulis or filling would you pair with a crispy meringue shell?
- When plating desserts, do you prefer a minimalist or more decorative style?
- What fruit combination do you think complements meringue best?
Full Detailed Recipe
Ingredients
For the meringue shells
3 egg whites, room temperature
150 g white sugar
1 teaspoon cornstarch
1 teaspoon white vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the fruit filling
1 small mango, diced
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon berry jam or berry coulis
For the sauce on the plate
2 tablespoons mango purée or coulis
1 teaspoon lemon or orange reduction
——————————————————————
Preparation
- Prepare the meringue
Preheat the oven to 100°C.
In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites until they form soft peaks. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to whip until glossy stiff peaks form. Gently fold in cornstarch, vinegar, and vanilla.
Transfer the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a round or teardrop nozzle. On a baking tray lined with parchment paper, pipe small teardrop shapes in a circular arrangement to form a flower-like shell.
Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes until crisp and dry. Let cool completely inside the oven for best texture. - Prepare the fruit filling
In a small pan, heat the diced mango with sugar and lemon juice until it softens and becomes jam-like. Let it cool.
Place a spoonful of berry jam or berry coulis in the center to add contrast and acidity. - Prepare the sauce
Thin the mango purée with a few drops of lemon or orange juice to create a smooth plate sauce.
——————————————————————
Professional Plating Method
- Place the meringue flower in the center of a clean, square or round plate.
- Fill the center of the meringue with the cooled mango mixture, leaving space for a small drop of berry coulis to add color contrast.
- Using a small spoon, place controlled drops of mango sauce around the dessert, keeping the design subtle and modern.
- Maintain a clean, white background to highlight the pure white meringue and bright fruit colors.
- Serve immediately or store the meringue in an airtight container until ready to assemble.
——————————————————————
Experience the delicate balance of crisp meringue, soft fruit filling, and fresh, vibrant flavor in this elegant dessert. With its flower-like form and bright center, it brings a touch of fine dining to your table while remaining simple enough for any home cook to master.
——————————————————————
Enjoy