Floating Island

Directions

1. 1
   With an electric mixer, whip the egg whites to soft peaks.
2. 2
   Gradually add the granulated sugar and continue whipping on high until very stiff peaks form.
3. 3
   Whip in the orange liqueur and lemon extract.
4. 4
   In a low, wide pan (such as a deep skillet) over medium heat, bring the milk, vanilla bean and seeds, lemon zest, and nutmeg to a simmer.
5. 5
   Using two spoons, form 8 egg-shaped balls of meringue, dropping them into the milk as you form them.
6. 6
   Poach for 6 minutes, spooning the milk over the meringues, until the meringues spring back when nudged with the back of a spoon.
7. 7
   Using a slotted spoon, remove the meringues to an oiled baking sheet.
8. 8
   Strain the milk and reserve it for the caramel sauce.
9. 9
   Heat the oven to 300F.
10. 10
    In a small saucepan set over high heat, cook the brown sugar until it is melted.
11. 11
    Carefully pour in the reserved milk and whisk until the caramel is dissolved.
12. 12
    Reduce the heat to low.
13. 13
    In a small bowl, whisk the cornstarch with the egg yolks.
14. 14
    Whisk in a little of the hot milk to warm the eggs.
15. 15
    Add the egg mixture to the milk in the saucepan.
16. 16
    Cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble, about 3 minutes.
17. 17
    Add the Amaretto.
18. 18
    Pour into a serving pitcher and keep warm.
19. 19
    Bake the meringues for 5 minutes.
20. 20
    To serve, divide the sauce among 8 shallow bowls.
21. 21
    Place a meringue in each dish and sprinkle with toasted almonds.
22. 22
    Separate the eggs a day before to increase the volume of the meringues.
23. 23
    Bring whites to room temperature before whipping to reach their full potential: Leave the container on the counter for 30 minutes or place the container in a bowl of warm water to temper.
24. 24
    Dont tap the whisk against the side of the bowlit knocks out all the air that you just took so much time to whip in.
25. 25
    Tap the whisk instead against your hand to dislodge any meringue that clings.