Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup chopped dried cherries
- 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 egg yolks
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Saucepan
- Slotted spoon
- Serving dishes
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
3. Gradually add in 1/4 cup of granulated sugar and 1/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is glossy and stiff.
4. Fold in the chopped dried cherries and dark chocolate.
5. Spoon the mixture into 4 serving dishes and smooth the tops.
6. Place the dishes in a baking pan and fill the pan with hot water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the dishes.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meringues are set and lightly golden on top.
8. Remove the dishes from the oven and let them cool.
9. In a saucepan, heat the milk, 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract over medium heat until it comes to a simmer.
10. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and cornstarch.
11. Gradually whisk in the hot milk mixture until smooth.
12. Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
13. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool.
14. Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the meringues from the dishes and place them in a shallow serving dish.
15. Pour the cooled custard over the meringues.
16. Chill the dish in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Oven temperature: 350°F
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 280
Fat per serving: 8g
Carbohydrates per serving: 44g
Protein per serving: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dried cherries can be substituted with dried cranberries or raisins.
- Dark chocolate can be substituted with milk chocolate or white chocolate.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of cherry liqueur to the custard for a boozy twist.
- Top the dish with whipped cream and additional chopped cherries and chocolate.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating them for the meringue.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the meringues from the dishes to prevent them from breaking.
- Chill the custard before pouring it over the meringues to prevent them from melting.
Storage instructions:
Store any leftover Chocolate-Cherry Floating Island in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
This dish is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the Chocolate-Cherry Floating Island in a shallow dish with a drizzle of chocolate sauce and a sprinkle of chopped cherries.
Garnishes:
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate shavings
- Fresh cherries
Pairings:
- Coffee
- Hot cocoa
- Red wine
Suggested side dishes:
This dish is best served as a dessert and does not require any side dishes.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the meringues are not setting, try baking them for a few more minutes.
- If the custard is too thin, add a bit more cornstarch and cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to use pasteurized eggs to prevent the risk of salmonella.
- Keep the dish refrigerated until ready to serve.
Food history:
The Floating Island dessert, also known as Ile Flottante, originated in France in the 17th century. It consists of meringue floating on a bed of custard and is often served as a light and airy dessert.
Flavor profiles:
This dish has a sweet and creamy custard base with a light and fluffy meringue topping. The addition of cherries and chocolate adds a rich and decadent flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the Chocolate-Cherry Floating Island as a light and elegant dessert after a dinner party or special occasion.
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Taste: Rich, Sweet, Chocolatey, Fruity, Creamy