Blueberry Meringue Nests are a light and airy dessert that typically consists of meringue nests filled with whipped cream and fresh blueberries. The meringue is made by whipping egg whites and sugar until stiff peaks form, then piping the mixture into small nests that are baked until crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The origins of the recipe are unclear, but it is believed to have been inspired by the French dessert Pavlova, which is similar in its use of meringue and whipped cream. Blueberry Meringue Nests have since become popular around the world, particularly during the summer months when blueberries are in season. Today, the recipe can be found in many cookbooks and online recipe sources, often with variations to suit individual tastes and preferences.
Arrange the meringue nest son 4 serving plates. Mix together the crème fraiche and blue berries in a bowl, spoon equal quantities of the mixture into each meringue nest.
For the sauce, break the chocolate into squares and put in a heavy-based saucepan. Add the butter, golden syrup, milk and 3tbsp cold water. Stir the mixture constantly over a low heat for 4-5 minutes, or until the chocolate melts and the sauce is smooth and well blended.
Allow the chocolate sauce to cool slightly then drizzle it over the top of each meringue nest. Decorate with the flaked almonds, and serve at once.
If you can't find ready-toasted almonds, dry-fry ordinary flaked almonds in a non-stick pan or wok until golden. Alternatively, spread them on a baking tray and toast under the grill, turning occasionally.
For the best result prepare this dessert just before serving. If you assemble the nests too far in advance, the creamy blueberry filling will soak into the meringue and make it soft.
This wonderfully light dessert makes a great finish to a summer meal. Serve after a main course of barbecued meat and vegetables.
