Turkish Brunch Delight – A Vegetarian Veil of Honeyed Delights

Allergens

Eggs, Sulfites

Ingredients

• 3 cups of fresh strawberries
• 2 cups of granulated sugar
• 1 cup of water
• 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
• 1/4 cup of cornstarch
• 1/4 cup of cold water (for slurry)
• 6 large egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar
• Pinch of salt
• 1 1/2 cups of superfine sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Prepare the strawberry sauce by hulling and slicing the fresh strawberries. In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Add the strawberries and cook over medium heat for 5 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and draw circles, about 3 inches in diameter, on them as a guide for meringue shapes. Turn the parchment over so the pencil marks are not visible.
3. In a large bowl, combine egg whites, cream of tartar, and a pinch of salt. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Gradually add superfine sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form.
4. Spoon the meringue into a piping bag fitted with a star tip. Pipe the meringue onto the parchment circles, creating a delicate, intricate design that evokes the beauty of an Ottoman palace.
5. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes or until the meringues are dry to the touch. Turn off the oven and let them cool inside with the door slightly ajar.
6. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the strawberry sauce to thicken it further. Chill until ready to serve.
7. To assemble, place a meringue on each plate and spoon the strawberry sauce over the top. Allow the colors to dance and blend, creating a visual symphony of sweet delight.

Chef’s Insight

The delicate balance of sweetness and texture in this dessert mirrors the harmony of Turkish music, where rhythm meets melody in a divine dance.

Notes

The combination of textures and flavors in this dish highlights the sensory experience of Turkish cuisine, from its rich history to its vibrant present.