This recipe serves a very generous four portions if you want more just proportionately increase the quantities. For this recipe I used 6 egg whites to make my meringues only a third of which you need for the Mess and the rest I stored in an airtight container and filled with whipped fresh cream and sliced strawberries for a quick fabulous treat. The meringues store very well in an airtight container for at least two weeks and I don’t care what anyone says, homemade is in a different league to shop bought. Don’t panic about what to do with your egg yolks my Hot Chocolates Chocolate Mousse will use them up for you.
You will need:
6 egg whites
350g caster sugar – use less if you prefer them to be less sweet
Pinch of salt
350-500g berries – you can’t always get the exact quantity you need for a recipe so I have widen the parameters here
150g caster sugar
280ml/1/2 pint double cream
100g Hot Chocolates White Chocolate

Method
Set your oven to 110C or 100C if fan assisted. Grease at least 3-4 baking trays with butter. Whip your egg whites until stiff. Add the salt and sugar little by little as you continue to whip. They are ready when they are glossy firm and white. Dollop the mixture on to the trays using a table/large spoon. Don’t worry about shape and size the meringues are going to be gorgeous anyway and those going into the Mess will be lightly crushed. Place in the oven for three hours moving and swapping tray positions after each hour so they are evenly cooked. If you want a less dry meringue bring out after two hours.
Put your chosen fruit into a large pan and add the sugar. Gently bring to a simmer stirring. Cook gently for about five mins until the sugar is dissolved. Take off the heat and drain the fruit reserving the juice. When everything is cool whip the cream until very soft peaks form. Melt the white chocolate in the microwave and gently fold into the whipped cream. Use your best party bowl and crush about 1/3 of the meringues lightly, add the strained fruit and cream and fold in. Put in the fridge until required. Pour the reserved fruit juice into a jug and store in the fridge. When you are ready to serve, dish out the Mess accompanied with the juice poured over the top.

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