**Pavlova

"yummy with a scattering of grated chocolate"

8 large egg whites
500g caster sugar
4 teaspoons cornflour
2 teaspoons of white wine vinegar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

pre-heat the oven to 180c/350F/gas 4

whisk egg whites (ideally using a free standing mixer) until soft peaks ~ gradually add the
sugar whilst whisking until stiff & shiny ~ add the cornflour, vinegar & vanilla extract & fold
into the egg whites ~ draw a 23cm circle on the baking sheet & fill with the mixture ~
smooth the sides & the top ~ immediately put into the oven & turn the oven down to
150c/300F/gas2 ~ cook for 1 & a half hours ~ the meringue should be dry on top ~ turn of
the oven & leave the door open slightly ~ remove when completely cool ~ fill with whipped
double cream & your choice of seasonal fruits