Ngaire's new Zealand Pavlova

3 egg whites

3 tbs cold water

1.5 cups sugar (24 tbs)

3 tsp corn flour

1.5 tsp malt vinegar

1/2 tsp vanilla

Whipped cream

Fresh fruit, chopped

Spin sugar through food processor until very fine

Beat egg whites until very stiff, slowly adding cold water while beating

Gradually beat in sugar, 2 tbsp at a time, as well as corn flour, vinegar, vanilla, beating until stiff, glossy peaks form

Line a baking dish with foil. Draw a 9 inch circle on the foil.

Spoon egg white mixture within your marked circle, mounding slightly higher around the edge

Bake in a preheated oven at 250 degrees for 1-1.25 hours until crisp on the outside and firm to the touch.

The pavlova will remain moist in center

Turn off oven , prop door open a bit , but leave pavlova in oven until oven has cooled.

Can be stored in cool, airtight container for several days.

To serve , spread whipped cream in center and if you like some chopped fresh fruit

Chef's notes