Desserts > French Desserts > Île Flottante

Pineapple-Macadamia Floating Island Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup of pineapple juice
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/4 cup of water
- 4 egg whites
- 1/4 teaspoon of cream of tartar
- 1/2 cup of chopped macadamia nuts
- 1/2 cup of whipped cream
- Pineapple chunks for garnish

Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowls
- Serving dish

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a saucepan, combine the pineapple juice, sugar, and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

2. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.

3. Using a slotted spoon, gently transfer spoonfuls of the egg whites into the simmering pineapple syrup. Poach the egg whites for 1-2 minutes on each side, until they are cooked through. Remove the poached egg whites with a slotted spoon and let them drain on a paper towel.

4. In another mixing bowl, whip the cream until it forms stiff peaks.

5. To assemble the dish, place the poached egg whites on a serving dish. Sprinkle the chopped macadamia nuts over the egg whites.

6. Spoon the whipped cream over the egg whites and nuts.

7. Drizzle the remaining pineapple syrup over the whipped cream.

8. Garnish with pineapple chunks.


Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat for simmering the pineapple syrup
Serving size:
4 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 6g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Almonds or pecans can be used instead of macadamia nuts.
- Canned pineapple chunks can be used instead of fresh pineapple.

Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of rum to the pineapple syrup for a tropical twist.
- Use coconut whipped cream instead of regular whipped cream for a coconut-pineapple flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the egg whites are at room temperature before beating them.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer the egg whites to the syrup to avoid excess liquid in the dish.
- Chill the dish before serving for a refreshing dessert.

Storage instructions:
Store the dish in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheating instructions:
The dish is best served chilled and does not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the dish in a clear glass bowl to showcase the layers.

Garnishes:
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or toasted coconut flakes.

Pairings:
Pair with a glass of chilled white wine or a tropical cocktail.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the egg whites are not poaching properly, adjust the heat to ensure the syrup is simmering but not boiling.

Food safety advice:
Make sure to use pasteurized egg whites to avoid the risk of salmonella.

Food history:
Floating island, or île flottante in French, is a classic dessert that originated in France in the 17th century.

Flavor profiles:
The dish has a sweet and tangy pineapple flavor with a nutty crunch from the macadamia nuts.

Serving suggestions:
Serve as a light and refreshing dessert after a heavy meal.

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Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Fruity