Jen’s kitchen
Our food editor shares the best stuff she’s tried from the big retailers, the latest gadgets she’s tested, plus her tricks and know-how Follow Jen on Instagram @jenbedloe
My golden rules…
ITALIAN MERINGUE
Your lemon meringue pie (see p114) deserves the ultimate crown
KEEP IT CLEAN
Make sure all your equipment is clean and dry. Any grease on the bowl or whisk (or spot of yolk in the white) will prevent the egg whites whisking properly, and any debris in the pan will encourage sugar crystals to form in the sugar syrup.
MIND YOUR MISE EN PLACE
Timing is crucial for Italian meringue. Have the egg whites whipped in the mixer before you start the sugar syrup; don’t let the syrup boil before all the sugar has melted; and keep an eye on the syrup’s temperature once it comes to the boil.
KEEP THE SPEED STEADY
Resist the urge to turn the mixer up to its highest speed when whisking. Starting the egg whites on a low-medium speed creates a tight and stable mass of small air bubbles. When the syrup is added, mixing on a medium speed prevents the meringue being overwhipped before it cools. Stop whisking as soon as the meringue is at room temperature.