Image Source from epsonttx

Pavlova Recipe – A Delight from the Antipodes

Pavlova is a classic dessert that hails from either Australia or New Zealand, and its name is derived from the famous Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova. This light and airy meringue-based sweet treats are known for their crisp crust and soft, marshmallow-like centre. Topped with whipped cream and fresh fruits, Pavlova is a perfect showstopper for any occasion. In this article, we will guide you through an easy yet delightful Pavlova recipe inspired by the wonderful recipes of Carina.

Ingredients

For the Meringue Base:

• 4 large egg whites (at room temperature)
• 1 cup (200g) caster sugar
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon cornflour (cornstarch)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings:

• 300ml thickened cream
• 2 tablespoons icing sugar
• Assorted fresh fruits (e.g., strawberries, kiwis, passionfruit, blueberries)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 120°C (250°F). Line a baking tray with baking paper and use a pencil to draw a circle roughly 20cm (8 inches) in diameter as a guide for your meringue. Turn the paper over so the pencil marks are facing down.

Step 2: Prepare the Meringue

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the egg whites on medium speed until soft peaks form. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add the caster sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to whip until the meringue is glossy and stiff peaks form. This process can take around 5-7 minutes.

Once the sugar has fully dissolved, gently fold in the vinegar, cornflour, and vanilla extract. The vinegar helps stabilise the meringue, while the cornflour gives it a lovely light texture.

Step 3: Shape the Meringue

Spoon the meringue mixture onto the baking paper, using the circle you drew as a guide. Create a slight dip in the centre to hold the toppings later, and smooth out the sides. This will create a beautiful shape reminiscent of a cloud.

Step 4: Bake the Meringue

Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour. After this time, turn the oven off but leave the meringue inside to cool completely. This helps prevent any cracks from forming as it cools. Do not open the oven door during this time; simply let the meringue sit undisturbed.

Step 5: Whip the Cream

Once the meringue has cooled completely, it’s time to prepare the toppings. In a mixing bowl, whip the thickened cream with the icing sugar until soft peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, as you want a smooth and creamy texture.

Step 6: Assemble Your Pavlova

Carefully transfer the cooled meringue onto a serving platter. Spread the whipped cream generously over the top, and then pile on your choice of fresh fruits. Strawberries, kiwis, and passionfruit work wonderfully together, but you can customise the toppings according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve

Pavlova is best served immediately after assembly to keep the meringue crisp. However, you can prepare the components in advance and assemble just before serving. Enjoy this delectable dessert with friends and family!

Tips for Perfect Pavlova

• Ensure your mixing bowl and utensils are completely clean and dry to avoid any fat from affecting the meringue.
• If you live in a humid climate, try to prepare the Pavlova on a dry day, as humidity can affect the meringue’s texture.
• Experiment with different toppings according to the season; berries in summer or roasted stone fruits in autumn can all be delightful.

Conclusion

The Pavlova is a timeless dessert that captivates with its elegance and flavour. With the easy recipe provided, you can create a stunning dessert that is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether it’s a birthday, a festive occasion, or just a delightful treat for yourself, enjoy the sweet success of making your very own Pavlova!