Global Food Magazine

Pavlova Variations

Pavlova, a delectable dessert with a captivating visual allure, finds its origins entwined in the ongoing debate between Australia and New Zealand. This confection has earned widespread international acclaim owing to its distinctive combination of a crisp meringue exterior and a tender, marshmallow-like interior. Immortalized with the name of the renowned Russian ballerina, Anna Pavlova, this dessert is a testament to the artful marriage of textures and flavors. In this article, we will explore three enticing Pavlova variations: Mini Pavlovas, Vegan Pavlova, and Tropical Fruit Pavlova, each offering a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

Mini Pavlovas

Mini Pavlova, a captivating and refined dessert, finds its roots in the heartlands of Australia and New Zealand. Paying homage to the iconic Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, this exquisite treat reflects the aspiration of its inventor to encapsulate the ethereal grace and delicacy that define the art of dance.Hailing from the southern hemisphere, Mini Pavlova embodies a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors, transforming simple ingredients into a masterpiece that delights the senses. The dessert’s foundation is crafted from crisp yet tender meringue, offering a delicate crunch that gives way to a cloud-like interior. This juxtaposition of textures mirrors the interplay of strength and gentleness that dance portrays on stage.

Ingredients:

  • Eggs(4)
  • Salt
  • Caster sugar(1 cup)
  • Corn flour( 1 table spoon)
  • Verjuice(1 tablespoon)
  • Thickened cream(3/4cup)
  • Cream fraiche (3/4)

Method:

  • Preheat fan-forced oven to 120°C.
  • Whisk egg whites, salt until medium-soft peaks form. Gradually add sugar, corn flour, Verjuice. Whisk until combined.
  • Line and grease two 30cm x 15cm baking trays.
  • Divide meringue into 8 portions, place 4 on each tray. Create center indentations.
  • Bake meringues at 110°C for 40 minutes. Cool in slightly open oven.
  • Whip cream, fold in crème fraiche. Chill.
  • Top mini pavlovas with cream mixture, fresh fruit, jam, or compote.
best Pavlova Variations recipes

Vegan Pavlova:

Vegan Pavlova is a creative adaptation of the classic Pavlova dessert, designed to cater to individuals following a vegan diet or those who avoid dairy and eggs. The traditional Pavlova features a meringue base made from egg whites and sugar, which presents a challenge for those  seeking plant-based alternatives.In response to this, vegan culinary innovation has led to the development of egg-free meringue solutions. Aquafaba, the viscous liquid obtained from cooking chickpeas, has gained prominence as a key ingredient. When whipped, aquafaba mimics the texture and structure of egg whites, forming stiff peaks that can be used to create meringue-like bases for vegan desserts. Coconut cream crowns the melody, mimicking creamy finales. Adorned with vibrant fruits and vegan embellishments, it’s a cruelty-free encore of taste and texture.

Ingredients:

  • coconut cream(400ml)
  • can chickpeas(400g)
  • caster sugar(1 cup)
  • corn flour(1 tablespoon)
  • maple syrup(1 tablespoon)
  • vanilla essence(1 tablespoon)
  • Pistachios and crushed coconut

Method:

  • Transform coconut cream into a chilled delight by refrigerating overnight. Let chickpeas relinquish their liquid; save it. Chickpeas rest in a container for later. Freeze the liquid for 2 hours until cold.
  • Awaken the oven to 150°C and drape baking trays with parchment. Once liquid’s frigid, escort it to a stand mixer with the whisk attachment. An 8-minute waltz yields soft peaks. Sugar joins, a tablespoon’s tale at a time, entwined for 15 minutes until harmony is found.
  • Cornflour adds its flair. With about ¼ cup charm, 12 meringue rounds emerge on the parchment stage. Oven curtains rise at 100°C, a 1-hour 15-minute act ensues, sculpting crisp meringue. Lights dim, a 4-hour intermission or an overnight slumber follows.
  • A new dawn, coconut cream enters the stage, cool and collected in the whisk’s embrace. Vanilla and maple syrup join the dance. The coconut troupe coats the meringue canvas. Pistachios, coconut flakes, and edible blooms scatter like applause.

Tropical Fruit Pavlova:

Tropical Fruit Pavlova is a delightful variation of the classic Pavlova dessert, infused with the exotic flavors of tropical fruits. This captivating twist adds a burst of vibrant colors and fruity aromas to the beloved dessert, offering a taste of paradise on a plate.Tropical Fruit Pavlova captures the essence of a sun-soaked getaway, allowing dessert enthusiasts to experience the lush allure of tropical fruits no matter where they are. This innovative adaptation celebrates the enchanting world of fruits and showcases the culinary versatility of the Pavlova, making it a true feast for the senses.A paradise-infused delight. 

Ingredients:

  • Eggs (5 )
  • Caster sugar(250g)
  • Double cream(500ml)
  • Icing sugar (2 tablespoon)
  • Fruity mango(100g)
  • Diced mango(2)
  • Papaya diced(1 )
  • Lemon juice

 

Method:

  • Preheat oven to 100°C (gas mark ¼). Whisk egg whites to soft peaks, add half the caster sugar. Gradually add remaining sugar, whisk for 2 more minutes until stiff and glossy.
  • Line 3 baking trays with parchment. Spread a third of meringue on each, form 22cm circles. Bake 1½ hours, rotating trays every 30 mins. Turn off oven, cool overnight.
  • Whip cream, vanilla seeds, and icing sugar to soft peaks. Fold in coulis. Mix diced fruit and lime juice separately.
  • Before serving, assemble: Cream on plate, meringue, cream, fruit, repeat layers, end with fresh fruit.
  • Dive into the pavlova realm, spanning from classic elegance to innovative twists. With options to satisfy both traditionalists and adventurous palates, these variations promise a feast for your senses. When the desire for a visually exquisite and delectable dessert strikes, these delightful pavlova creations await your exploration.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Pavlova’s versatility lends itself to a world of culinary creativity, allowing for the exploration of different tastes, textures, and dietary needs. Whether you prefer the daintiness of Mini Pavlovas, the inclusivity of a Vegan Pavlova, or the exoticism of a Tropical Fruit Pavlova, these variations offer a delectable journey through flavors and cultures. So, whether you’re a seasoned dessert enthusiast or a curious cook, these Pavlova variations invite you to savor the joy of innovation and the art of dessert making.