Egg white foam with apples

Apple Meringue - A Simple and Elegant Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Apple meringue is a refined yet extremely simple dessert to prepare, combining the delicacy of egg whites with the sweet-tart flavor of baked apples. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of elegance to your table. Moreover, it is an excellent option for those who want to enjoy a lighter dessert without compromising on taste.

A Short Story

Meringue has its origins in culinary traditions around the world, appreciated for its airy texture and easy digestibility. Over time, different cultures have adapted this recipe, adding local ingredients, but the essence remains the same: a dessert that combines simplicity with refinement. Apples, versatile fruits loved by everyone, are the perfect ingredient to add warmth and flavor.

Ingredients

- 1 cup of apple puree (approximately 250 g of baked apples)
- 2 egg whites
- 2-3 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Cookies or apple slices for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Apple Puree

1. Preparing the Apples
Wash 3-4 medium-sized apples, preferably from a flavorful variety, such as Granny Smith or Fuji. These varieties provide a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.

2. Baking
Place the apples in a baking dish, add a few tablespoons of water, and cover with aluminum foil. Bake them in the oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes, or until they become soft.

3. Preparing the Puree
Remove the apples from the oven, let them cool slightly, then remove the core with a teaspoon. Pass the core through a fine sieve to obtain a smooth puree. This step is essential to avoid fiber clumps from the apples.

Preparing the Meringue

1. Beating the Egg Whites
In a clean bowl, add the 2 egg whites. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat them at medium speed. Continue until they become frothy and start to thicken.

2. Adding Sugar
Gradually add the sugar, one tablespoon at a time, continuing to beat. This step is crucial as the sugar helps stabilize the meringue.

3. Incorporating the Apple Puree
Once the egg whites have reached a firm consistency, add the apple puree. Use a spatula to gently fold it in, so you achieve a fluffy and homogeneous cream.

Assembling and Serving

1. Serving
Divide the meringue into cups or small bowls. Cover them with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour to cool completely.

2. Garnishing
Before serving, you can garnish the meringue with crushed cookies or thin slices of fresh apples for added texture and flavor.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Apples: Choose firmer apples to obtain a denser puree. Softer apples will create a more fluid puree, affecting the final consistency of the meringue.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar or natural sweeteners, depending on your dietary preferences.
- Vegan Option: If you want a vegan version, you can replace the egg whites with a plant-based substitute, such as whipped aquafaba (chickpea water).
- Combining with Other Desserts: This meringue pairs perfectly with a caramel sauce or a spoonful of berry jam.

Nutritional Benefits

This apple meringue is a healthy choice, containing essential nutrients from apples, such as vitamin C and fiber. Egg whites are also an excellent source of lean protein, beneficial in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can it be made in advance?
Yes, the meringue keeps well in the refrigerator, so you can prepare it a day before serving.

- How can I vary the flavors?
You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple puree to give it a warm note.

- Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pear puree, peaches, or even berries to vary the flavors.

Conclusion

Apple meringue is an easy-to-make dessert that combines simplicity with elegance. Whether you serve it at a special dinner or as a sweet treat during the week, this dish will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, embrace the culinary adventure and surprise your dear ones with this delight!