Sunday Night Dessert

Last night I wanted to try making something different for dessert, and since it was quite warm in the house, I didn't want to use the oven.  So I had a thought…

A few days ago I watched an episode of the Barefoot Contessa and she made Eton Mess (named for the famous boys school).  It is an English dessert consisting of a mixture of strawberries, pieces of meringue and whipped cream, which is traditionally served at the Eton College annual cricket game.

It's one of those recipes where quantities aren't important, so I took some liberties. 

It turned out to be really tasty.  It complemented my hubby's homemade hamburgers quite well, and rounded out the summer meal.









Here is my semi-homemade version of Eton Mess.

Ingredients:

·   Strawberries, ¾ lb.

·   Whipping cream, about ½ cup

·   White sugar

·   Vanilla extract

·   Meringue cookies, crushed (store bought), about 4

Directions:

1. Wash strawberries and cut into small pieces.  Put half of them in a small saucepan with some sugar.  I used about 4 tablespoons, but do it to taste.
2. Cook the strawberries and sugar over medium heat.  Stir and mash the strawberries frequently.  Cook for about five minutes (the strawberries should start to break down).
3. Add the cooked strawberries and sugar mixture to the reserved fresh strawberries.  Mix and refrigerate until chilled.
4. Whip the whipping cream until soft peaks form.  You may add a dash of vanilla and a tablespoon of sugar if desired.
5. Spoon all components into parfait glasses, layering strawberries, whipped cream, and crushed up meringue cookies.