Pavlova Made Easy

I can't believe that we have been here for more than a month and are just now having pavlova for the first time. For those of you who don't know, pavlova is a meringue-based dessert named after the Russian ballet dancer Anna Pavlova. It has a crisp crust and a soft, light inside. The dessert is thought to have been created in honour of the dancer after one of her tours down under in the 1920's.

The crazy part is that Australia and New Zealand have been arguing over who actually created this lovely treat, and they went to court over the whole thing. At this point in time, it has been determined that New Zealand is in fact the winner. I knew you were wondering...

The dessert is a popular dish and an important part of the national cuisine of both countries, and with its simple recipe, is frequently served for special occasions.

Rather than try to make it from scratch, I came across these lovely store made pavlova. Much easier and in such great individual servings. Is it cheating if the kiwi's are doing it??

Pavlova is traditionally decorated with a topping of whipped cream and fresh fruit like kiwi, passion fruit, and strawberries.

I am switching things up and using an idea from a former co-worker, (you know who you are), and trying a lemon curd topping in place of the whipping cream.

I found the lemon curd recipe on a kiwi TV program and it was very easy to follow:

2 Lemons - the zest and juice of both

1 cup of sugar

3 eggs lightly beat

3/4 cup of butter

Put all of these ingredients into a sauce pan and cook on a VERY low heat because you don't want to scramble the eggs. Stir regularly for about 15-20 minutes. Once this has thickened and looks glossy, strain it and put it in the fridge to cool until you are ready to serve.
Wait until just before serving to top your pavlova, otherwise it will just get soggy.
(this made enough to top 6 servings)
Finished product - be as creative as you like. I unfortunately cannot write what Jeff said as he took his first bite of this dessert. He loved it, and you can use your imagination.