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Delicious Meringues: A Classic Recipe with a Modern Twist

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines a crispy texture with a soft and flavorful interior? Meringues are a perfect choice for any occasion, whether it's a party with friends, a special event, or simply a personal treat. These little delights made from egg whites and nuts are not only delicious but also easy to prepare, offering a pleasant and satisfying experience in the kitchen. Let’s explore this simple yet amazingly tasty recipe together.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 30 meringues

Ingredients:
- 4 egg whites
- 150 grams of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 150 grams of ground nuts
- 2 tablespoons of flour

A bit of history
Meringues are a traditional dessert, cherished in many cultures, with deep roots in culinary art. They have evolved over time, with each region adding its unique contribution to the recipe. Over the years, meringues have become a symbol of gourmet sweets, often served at festive occasions or as a personal indulgence for dessert lovers. This specific recipe is a simplified version that still retains the essence of these culinary gems.

Step-by-step preparation of meringues

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by ensuring that you have all the ingredients at hand. It is essential that the egg whites are at room temperature, as this will help achieve a more stable foam. Place the nuts in a blender to grind them, but be careful not to turn them into flour; we want a slightly grainy texture.

2. Beating the egg whites
Use a clean, dry bowl to beat the egg whites. Start beating them with a mixer on medium speed. When a foam begins to form, increase the mixer speed and continue beating until the egg whites become firm. A useful trick: you can check the consistency of the egg whites by turning the bowl upside down. If they don’t spill out, you’re on the right track!

3. Adding the sugar
Now, gradually add the sugar in a rain-like fashion while continuing to beat. This step is crucial for achieving a smooth and shiny meringue. Keep beating until the sugar is completely dissolved and the egg whites become glossy.

4. Incorporating the dry ingredients
In another bowl, mix the ground nuts, flour, and vanilla sugar. Add this mixture to the egg white meringue, using a spatula to gently fold it in so as not to lose the air in the mixture. It is important not to overmix, just until the ingredients are well integrated.

5. Forming the meringues
Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Using a piping bag or two spoons, form small mounds of dough on the parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will spread slightly during baking.

6. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Bake the meringues for 20-25 minutes or until they become lightly golden at the edges. It’s important not to leave them too long, as we want to keep the interior soft and moist.

7. Cooling
Once the meringues are done, take the tray out of the oven and let them cool completely on a rack. This step will help the meringues easily detach from the parchment paper and maintain their shape.

Serving and variations
These meringues are delicious served plain, but they can also be a great base for various combinations. I recommend serving them with a scoop of ice cream or alongside a cup of aromatic coffee. You can also experiment with flavors by adding cocoa to the mixture or replacing the nuts with almonds, pistachios, or even ground chocolate for an interesting variation.

Nutritional benefits
Meringues are an excellent source of protein due to the egg whites, and the nuts add healthy fats and fiber. This dessert is also a gluten-free option, thanks to the small amount of flour used. In each serving, you can find approximately 60 calories, making them a lighter choice for those monitoring their caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use boxed egg whites?
Yes, but it’s important to check the label to ensure no additional ingredients are added that could affect the consistency.

- How can I keep the meringues fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. If they get damp, you can lightly reheat them in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

- What drinks pair best with meringues?
A cup of coffee, a flavored tea, or even a glass of sweet wine can perfectly accompany this dessert.

Conclusion
Meringues are not only an easy-to-make dessert but also a flavorful experience. With each bite, you will enjoy a perfect blend of textures and flavors. I encourage you to try this simple recipe, play with the ingredients, and discover the combinations you like best. Whether you serve them at a special occasion or simply indulge yourself after a long day, meringues will never disappoint!