The shy violet is an unassuming flower that has come to be a symbol of love and faithfulness. Its delicate perfume transports me to a time I never lived in. It takes me back to the Victorian era; girls in white lace dresses with posies of violets on their dressing tables… All very Picnic at Hanging Rock.
This simple recipe uses violet oil (which can be difficult to find) to flavour the merignues. They taste of nostalgia and secret love.
Simply beat 4 egg whites until stiff peaks form, then while still beating, gradually add one cup of caster sugar and one teaspoon of violet oil, and continue beating until the mixture is glossy. Pipe onto tray lined with baking paper and bake for one hour in 100˚C. After an hour, turn the oven off and leave the meringues in there until the oven is cool.
