Eggs, the power of protein

Eggs are fascinating. Not only do they have the ability to become life, they also have almost miraculous powers. They hold things together, they add color and taste, they help products retain moisture, increase in volume and create amazing textures. And did I said they are nutritionally loaded? From cakes to custards they are virtually irreplaceable.

Meringues

No, I am not talking about the well loved latin dance. Few people know the versatility of #meringues, they can be eaten raw, cooked or baked. They can be added to other recipes or they can be used as toppings, they can be torched and so much more. They are made with just the egg white and here are some rules you want to make sure follow. 

• Make sure the #egg whites are free of yolk or ever contaminated with any fat, this will prevent the egg from ever become a strong foam

• Always use room temperature eggs for fluffier meringues

• All equipment used should also be clean of fat residue and at room temperature

• Humidity is the worst. Stay away from making meringues on rainy/humid days

• The higher the sugar content the more stable meringue

• Make sure to keep whipping the meringue on low speed to prevent it from setting to early

Here is the most basic recipe

French or Common Meringue

The very first recipe I ever lay my hands on. Nothing Simpler than a common meringue. But very easy to mess up. Follow instruction carefully for a successful and beautiful cloud of whipped egg whites.

• 4 Oz Egg Whites, room temperature

• 4 Oz Fine Granulated Sugar

• 2 Oz Confectioners Sugar, sifted (optional)

• pinch of Salt

Whip egg whites until slightly double in size, Gradually add the granulated sugar, making sure the previous sugar dissolves before adding the next. You can do this in  three stages. Once all granulated sugar is added, slowly add the confectioners sugar and  whipped to the desired consistency, this will depend on the use. To add to #cakes #soufflés and #sponges whip to medium peaks. For toppings and #macarons, whip to stiff peaks. This #meringue can be now used for toppings  and can even be torched. You can also pipe in parchment lined sheet pans and dry in a 200 degree oven for a couple of hours.

Please make sure to leave any comments or questions below. I would love to hear from you or answer any inquiries. Also, feel free to leave ideas for future posts.