By James V. Ruocco
But, what exactly is it?
And, how did it get its name?
The origins of "Eton Mess" - a delicious confection of fresh strawberries, meringues and whipped double cream - supposedly dates back to a late 19th century cricket match at Eton College. While the game - Eton vs. Harrow - was in progress, the dessert was accidentally dropped on the floor and smashed to bits by the college's elite wait staff.
Not to worry, though.
Within seconds, it was scooped up and placed in individual bowls for serving.
The staff went wild. The students were thrilled. Bowls were scraped clean. Seconds and thirds were requested. And within the half-hour, this slightly "messy concoction" became an immediate hit with everyone on sight.
And rightly, so.
It's simple.
It's flavorful.
It's delicious.
It's fun.
It's easy to make.
It tastes real good.
An English dessert jumbled-up to resemble a "messy twist" on traditional pudding fare, "Eton Mess" is a sweet treat that has withstood the test of time.
The recipe is quite simple.
Strawberries.
Meringues.
Double cream.
Caster sugar.
Cut the strawberries in half after washing them. Add a dash or two of caster sugar. Crumble the meringues into bits. Toss the double cream into a mixer or blender and allow it to swirl around until it becomes thick, creamy and frothy looking. Stir everything together until it is evenly blended. Place in bowls and chill for about 15-30 minutes and then serve.
And voila, the "Eton Mess" pudding tradition continues.
Variations of the original recipe are also a common practice.
If strawberries are not to your liking, you can substitute raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, gooseberries or redcurrants. You can mix them together if you so choose. Chocolate shavings are quite popular as is a spoonful of strawberry or cranberry jam, lemon curd, minced ginger and vanilla chips. Elderflower cream can also be substituted in place of double cream.
Whatever recipe - classic or variation - the idea, of course, is to keep things messy while creating a dessert that no doubt will become a sweet pleasure for the palate.
Enjoy!
Eton College, an exclusive English school for boys (ages 13-18) was founded in 1440 by Henry VI. One of three public schools, including Harrow and Radley, to retain a seven-day-a-week boarding only tradition policy, it well known for its wealth, its history and its noteworthy alumni. Tuition is roughly £48,501 per year.
Distinguished alumni include Prime Minister Boris Johnson, David Cameron, Prince William, Prince Harry, Charles Spencer, Ian Fleming, George Orwell, Alexander Windsor, John Maynard Keynes, Antony Armstrong-Jones and actors Eddie Redmayne, Hugh Laurie, Domenic West, Damian Lewis and Tom Hiddleston.
