Lunch: Charred Pavlova

Ingredients

6 ounces egg whites, at room temperature
1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
3 pinches kosher salt
338 grams sugar
12 grams cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Special equipment: kitchen blow torch
Preheat the convection oven to 150 degrees F. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Put the egg whites, cream of tartar and salt in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment and mix on medium speed. Mix the sugar and cornstarch together, then slowly add into the bowl with egg whites. Increase the mixer speed to medium-high and whip the egg whites to a soft peak. Add in the vanilla. Continue whipping on high speed for 5 minutes.
Using a spoon, and working quickly, create 3-inch mounds of the meringue on the prepared sheet pan with 3 inches between each mound. Create peaks on the meringue by dragging the tip of the spoon from the center of the mound and lifting. Use a kitchen torch all the way around the meringue to give it some color and a nice toasted marshmallow flavor. Bake with the oven fan on high until the meringue is dry to the touch on the outside but still gooey inside, 1 hour.
Store in an airtight container with silica packets to keep out any excess moisture until ready to serve.
NotesServe the pavlova with fresh fruit and sorbet or anything tart (like yuzu or lemon curd) to balance out the sweetness.
This recipe was provided by a chef, restaurant or culinary professional and may have been scaled down from a bulk recipe. The Food Network Kitchens have not tested it for home use and therefore cannot make any representation as to the results.
Propane gas torches are highly flammable and should be kept away from heat, open flame, and prolonged exposure to sunlight. They should only be used in well-ventilated areas. When lighting a propane gas torch, place the torch on a flat, steady surface, facing away from you. Light the match or lighter and then open the gas valve. Light the gas jet, and blow out the match. Always turn off the burner valve to "finger tight" when finished using the torch. Children should never use a propane gas torch without adult supervision.