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For the fruit:
– 2 cups fresh strawberries (or other berries of your choice)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of fruit)
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Meringue:**
– Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
– Drain the aquafaba from the chickpea can and pour it into a mixing bowl.
– Using an electric mixer, beat the aquafaba on high speed for about 5-7 minutes until soft peaks form.
– Gradually add the sugar, cream of tartar, and vanilla extract, continuing to beat the mixture until stiff peaks form.
– If desired, add the cornstarch to stabilize the meringue further.
– Spoon or pipe the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in small mounds.
– Bake the meringues in the preheated oven for 1-1.5 hours or until they are dry and crisp on the outside. Turn off the oven and allow the meringues to cool completely in the oven.
2. **Prepare the Whipped Cream:**
– Open the chilled can of coconut cream and scoop out the thickened cream into a mixing bowl (leave the liquid behind).
– Using an electric mixer, beat the coconut cream on high speed for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes fluffy and smooth.
– Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract to taste, and continue to whip until fully incorporated.
3. **Prepare the Fruit:**
– Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them into smaller pieces.
– If your fruit is not sweet enough, you can sprinkle a little sugar over the top and let it sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out the natural juices.
4. **Assemble the Vegan Eton Mess:**
– In serving glasses or bowls, layer the vegan whipped cream, meringue pieces, and fresh fruit.
– Start with a layer of whipped cream, followed by meringue pieces, and top with fresh strawberries or berries.
– Repeat the layers until the glasses are full, finishing with a generous topping of fruit.
5. **Serve:**
– Serve immediately for the best texture, or chill for a few hours in the refrigerator before serving.
– Garnish with extra fresh berries or mint leaves for a beautiful presentation.
### Variations and Customizations for Vegan Eton Mess
One of the great things about Vegan Eton Mess is its adaptability. Here are some ways you can modify the recipe to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs:
1. **Different Fruits**: While strawberries are the classic fruit used in Eton Mess, you can use a variety of fruits depending on the season. Try blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of tropical fruits like mango and pineapple for a fresh twist.
2. **Flavored Meringue**: Add a little lemon zest or orange zest to the meringue for a citrusy flavor that pairs beautifully with fresh fruit.
3. **Flavored Whipped Cream**: For a more decadent version, try adding a spoonful of chocolate or matcha powder to the whipped cream to create a flavored topping.
4. **Nuts and Seeds**: For added crunch and texture, consider sprinkling some chopped almonds, pistachios, or sunflower seeds on top of your Vegan Eton Mess.
5. **Gluten-Free**: The meringue in this recipe is naturally gluten-free, so this dessert is a great option for those avoiding gluten. Just be sure to check the labels of any store-bought ingredients, such as coconut cream, to ensure they are gluten-free.
## Conclusion: A Classic Dessert for All to Enjoy
Vegan Eton Mess is a perfect plant-based alternative to the traditional Eton Mess, offering all the freshness, sweetness, and texture that make the original dessert so beloved. By using simple yet effective substitutes like aquafaba, coconut cream, and fresh fruit, you can create a dessert that is just as satisfying as the classic version, while meeting the needs of those following a vegan or plant-based diet.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or treating yourself to a simple dessert, Vegan Eton Mess is sure to impress with its light, airy meringue, creamy whipped topping, and juicy, vibrant fruit. The best part is, it’s completely customizable, so you can make it your own by experimenting with different fruits, flavors, and toppings.
Give this delicious and easy-to-make dessert a try and enjoy the joy it brings to every bite!
