Oeufs a la Neige (Floating Islands)

Recipe View Prepare the Custard: Separate two of the eggs, placing the yolks in the top of a double boiler along with one whole egg. Add 1/4 cup of the sugar and the salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and pale yellow. (2 minutes)

Recipe View Gently whisk in the milk. Place the double boiler over simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl doesn't touch the water. Cook, stirring constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon, until the custard thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon. (10-15 minutes).

Recipe View Remove the custard from the heat immediately to prevent curdling. If it starts to curdle, take it off the heat and whisk vigorously until smooth. Strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to remove any lumps. Stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the custard to cool slightly before covering and refrigerating until thoroughly chilled. (30 minutes cooling, 1 hour chilling)

Recipe View Poach the Meringues: In a heatproof bowl (stainless steel or glass), lightly whisk the two egg whites with the remaining 1/4 cup of sugar, just enough to dissolve the sugar. (1 minute)

Recipe View Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (again, ensuring the bowl doesn't touch the water). Stir the egg white mixture constantly until it reaches a temperature of 145°F (63°C) or hotter. This step is crucial for food safety and meringue stability. (5-7 minutes)

Recipe View Immediately remove the bowl from the heat. Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the warm egg whites on medium-high speed until they form stiff, glossy peaks. The meringue should be firm and hold its shape. (5-7 minutes)

Recipe View Assemble and Serve: Pour the chilled custard into a shallow serving dish or individual bowls.

Recipe View Using a large spoon or ice cream scoop, gently drop spoonfuls of meringue onto the custard, creating 'floating islands.'

Recipe View Chill briefly before serving to allow the flavors to meld, or serve immediately. A light dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of caramel can add an extra touch of elegance. (15 minutes chilling)