Marias Menu

Last week, I wanted to bake something simple and by simple I mean, something very easy, with a few ingredients. At the same time, I also wanted it to be related to the festive season of Xmas.  Its a season of joy, happiness and also hopes, because you are ready to welcome the new year and eagerly waiting to know what’s in store for you.

At the end of all these thoughts, I was able to find one such item, which is very simple and at the same time very much apt for the season. Yes meringues….they actually look like snowballs :), so by making it I will get a snowy feeling here in Bahrain also

You need the following to make this.

1. Egg whites - of 2 eggs
2. Sugar - 1/2 cup
3. Chopped nuts - 1/4 cup
4. Icing sugar - for dusting (optional)

Preheat  the oven to 140 degree. Line a baking tray with greaseproof paper and keep aside. Pour the egg whites to a clean bowl. (Please note that the bowl should be completely clean and grease free, for successful whipping). Add some of the sugar to this and start whipping. After sometime add the rest of the sugar and continue to whip on high speed until stiff peaks form.  If the mixture doesnt stop from the beater, when it is switched off, the batter is ready. Now slowly fold in the chopped nuts.

Drop one teaspoon each of batter spaced 1-1 1/2 inches apart on prepared baking tray. Bake until crisp outside and still chewy inside, it takes around 35-40 minutes of baking. Transfer sheets to a wire rack and let completely cool. Dust with icing sugar. It can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.

Notes: The baking time should be adjusted to your respective ovens. This quantity will yield 12 - 15 meringues of medium size.

This recipe is adapted from the book: Cakes, Cookies, Pies & Tarts - inspired recipes from Williams Sonoma TASTE magazine.