A Wild French Pastry Meringue with Seven Colors of Strawberry and Edible Wildflowers

Prep Time: Estimated 30 minutes
Cook Time: Estimated 1 hour
Total Time: Estimated 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: Makes 6 servings
Cuisine: French
Author: Scott Stokes

Ingredients:

• 6 large egg whites
• 1.5 cups granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Assorted food coloring (red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink)
• Fresh strawberries, sliced
• Edible wildflowers for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 225°F (110°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites on medium speed until frothy.
3. Add the cream of tartar and continue beating until soft peaks form.
4. Gradually add the sugar, a tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form and the meringue is glossy.
5. Add the vanilla extract and gently fold it into the meringue.
6. Divide the meringue into 7 equal portions. Add a few drops of different food coloring to each portion and gently fold until the desired color is achieved.
7. Using a piping bag fitted with a large round tip, pipe the colored meringue onto the prepared baking sheet, creating small mounds or nests.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the meringue is crisp and dry.
9. Remove from the oven and let the meringue cool completely on the baking sheet.
10. Once cooled, carefully remove the meringue nests from the parchment paper.
11. Fill each meringue nest with sliced strawberries.
12. Garnish with edible wildflowers.
13. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Note: The meringues can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Fill them with strawberries just before serving to maintain their crispness.

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your own variations or substitutions. Enjoy the delightful flavors and vibrant colors of this wild French pastry meringue!

Ingredient Pairings

Tomatoes and mozzarella are a classic pairing in Caprese salads. The juicy and slightly acidic flavor of tomatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy and mild taste of mozzarella, creating a fresh and flavorful combination.

Food Facts

The most widely consumed fruit in the world is the tomato. Although botanically a fruit, it is commonly referred to as a vegetable.

Cooking Tips

When sautéing ingredients, make sure the pan is hot before adding the oil or butter. This helps to prevent sticking and promotes even cooking.

Ingredient Spotlight

Rosemary is a fragrant herb with a piney and citrusy flavor. It pairs well with roasted meats, potatoes, and root vegetables. Rosemary can be used fresh or dried and adds an aromatic touch to various dishes.

Foraging Facts

Edible seaweed, such as nori, dulse, and wakame, can be foraged along coastlines and is a nutritious addition to various dishes. Make sure to forage from clean water sources and be aware of local regulations regarding seaweed harvesting.

Baking Hacks

To quickly bring cold eggs to room temperature for baking, place them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes. This helps to ensure better incorporation into the batter and more consistent results.

Culinary Terms

Basting is the process of brushing or spooning liquids, such as marinade or pan drippings, over food while it is cooking to add flavor and keep it moist.

Dry Rubs

For a Mediterranean-inspired dry rub, consider using a combination of dried oregano, basil, and garlic powder. This blend works well on chicken, lamb, or even grilled vegetables, adding a burst of Mediterranean flavors to your dishes.

Wet Rubs

For a spicy and tangy wet rub, combine ingredients like Sriracha sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, honey, minced ginger, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. This fiery wet rub is perfect for chicken wings, shrimp skewers, or even roasted cauliflower, delivering a mouthwatering kick of flavor.

Spice Blends

Pumpkin spice blend is a seasonal favorite, often associated with fall and winter flavors. It combines spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice. Pumpkin spice blend can be used to flavor baked goods, hot beverages, or even sprinkled over roasted vegetables for a touch of warmth and sweetness.

Infused Oils

For an exotic twist, create a curry-infused oil by combining curry powder with olive oil. Let the flavors meld for a few days before using. This fragrant oil can be drizzled over rice dishes, roasted vegetables, or used as a flavor base for curries and stews.

Edible Flowers

Edible flowers are blossoms that can be consumed as part of a dish or used as garnishes. They add visual appeal and delicate flavors to both sweet and savory dishes. Some common edible flowers include pansies, marigolds, nasturtiums, violets, lavender, and roses. Edible flowers can be used in salads, desserts, cocktails, or as a decorative element on cakes or pastries. It's important to note that not all flowers are edible, so it's essential to use flowers specifically labeled as edible.