Walnut and poppy seed meringues

Nut and poppy seed meringues – a refined dessert that is easy to make and full of subtle flavors! These meringues are perfect for serving at a party, as a snack, or simply to indulge yourself during relaxation moments. With a crispy exterior and soft interior, these delights are a true treat for the taste buds.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 80 minutes
Number of servings: 12 servings

Ingredients:

- 4 egg whites
- 250 g powdered sugar
- 2 packets vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Butter for greasing the tray
- 1-2 tablespoons ground nuts
- 1 tablespoon poppy seeds

A bit of history:
Meringues have a long and fascinating history, being a popular dessert in many cultures around the world. This recipe combines the tradition of meringues with the aromatic flavors of nuts and poppy seeds, bringing a touch of innovation. Nuts, rich in healthy fats, and poppy seeds, known for their tiny yet nutrient-rich seeds, blend perfectly in this recipe.

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. It is important to use fresh egg whites, as they will whip better and create a more stable meringue. Ensure that the bowl you will use to whip the egg whites is clean and dry, free of any grease.

2. Whipping the egg whites: In a large bowl, add the 4 egg whites along with a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to begin whipping the egg whites. After about 2-3 minutes, when they start to foam, gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix. It is important to add the sugar gradually to allow the egg whites to absorb it and form a firm foam.

3. Adding the lemon: Once you have achieved a stiff and glossy meringue, add the lemon juice. This will not only add a note of freshness but will also help stabilize the meringue.

4. Preparing the tray: While continuing to mix, preheat the oven to 120°C. Grease a tray with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent the meringues from sticking.

5. Forming the meringues: Use a teaspoon or a piping bag to form small mounds of meringue on the prepared tray. Make sure to leave a distance of 5-6 cm between each mound, as they will puff up a bit during baking.

6. Adding flavors: Before placing the tray in the oven, you can personalize the meringues. Mix part of the mixture with cocoa to create chocolate meringues, and sprinkle poppy seeds on top. Another delicious variation is to mix part with cinnamon and sprinkle ground nuts for a more complex taste and unmistakable aroma.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the meringues bake at low heat for 40-60 minutes. It is essential not to brown them, so after the first 30 minutes, you can cover the tray with a sheet of baking paper to avoid excessive coloring. The meringues are ready when they are dry on the outside and slightly crispy.

8. Cooling: Once baked, remove the meringues from the oven and let them cool on a rack. They will continue to dry and achieve a perfect texture.

Serving suggestions:
Nut and poppy seed meringues are delicious served as they are, but they can also be accompanied by a scoop of ice cream or a warm chocolate sauce. A warm drink, such as herbal tea or a cappuccino, will perfectly complement this treat.

Nutritional information:
These meringues contain a moderate amount of calories due to the sugar, but they are also a source of protein from the egg whites and healthy fats from the nuts. One serving contains approximately 100 calories, depending on the added ingredients. They are an ideal dessert for those looking for a lighter and less heavy alternative.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use boxed egg whites? It is preferable to use fresh egg whites for the best texture results. Boxed egg whites may contain additives that affect the stability of the meringue.
- How do I store the meringues? Meringues are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If the humidity is too high, they may become sticky.
- Can I substitute powdered sugar? Powdered sugar is essential for achieving the fine texture of the meringue. If you don't have powdered sugar, you can make it at home by grinding granulated sugar in a blender.

Variations:
For those who want to experiment, meringues can be flavored with various extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or orange. Adding natural colorants, such as beet powder, can provide a pop of color and an attractive appearance.

In conclusion, nut and poppy seed meringues are a simple yet sophisticated dessert that will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Try this recipe and let your imagination soar with various flavor combinations! Enjoy!