Meringues

Meringues are, of course, totally frivolous. Little more than a puff of sugar, yet they have a dedicated following. If, though, you vary the kind of sugar added, the meringue acquires a quite different taste – light muscovado, for instance, gives an enticing caramel flavour. Or if you fold in chopped or ground nuts – hazelnuts, almonds or pecans – the meringue gains a softer consistency and a more interesting texture. The same mixture is used for small individual meringues – served clasped