ETON MESS:
The Eton Mess is a quick and popular dessert in England made with store-bought meringue. It is typically made with whipped cream, meringue, and strawberries, but there are many variations using a variety of fruits and flavors added to the whipped cream. The original recipe dates back to 1893 – or at least, this was the first printed version. Most people believe Eton Mess originated from Eton College, when the college would serve the dessert at an annual cricket match against their rivals at Harrow School. The original version of the recipe used either strawberries or bananas, along with ice cream. Many variations have evolved since. Now, the dessert always includes crushed meringue. While many variations exist, including creations with mixed berries, brandy, and jams, the most traditional form of the dessert uses strawberries (like the recipe below)

SERVINGS  [4]

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups strawberries, cleaned and chopped

2 tablespoons water

2 teaspoons caster sugar

2 cups whipping cream

1 packet individual meringue nests

DIRECTIONS:

In a large bowl, combine the strawberries, water, and sugar and leave to macerate while you whip the cream.

In another bowl, whip the cream until it is thick. Roughly break the meringues into the whipped cream. Add approximately 3.5 cups of strawberries to the mixture and gently fold everything together. The other 1/2 cup will be used for garnish.

Divide the whipped cream mixture evenly in 4 cooled serving plates or bowls. Top with leftover strawberries, and serve immediately.

*please note: the feature photo was acquired from http://www.dailygourmet.co.uk*