Fruit Meringue Kebabs

Directions

1. 1
   Preheat the broiler and position a rack in the lower third of the oven.
2. 2
   In a large stainless steel bowl, using a hand-held electric mixer, beat the egg whites at medium speed until soft peaks form.
3. 3
   Beat in the sugar, 1 tablespoon at a time and beating thoroughly between additions.
4. 4
   Increase the speed to high and beat the whites until they are glossy and hold firm peaks, 2 to 3 minutes longer.
5. 5
   Arrange the apple halves on a sturdy baking sheet, cut sides down.
6. 6
   Slide 2 of the strawberries and 2 pieces of the pineapple, mango and banana onto each of 4 wooden skewers.
7. 7
   Using a butter knife or a small offset spatula, spread the meringue evenly over the fruit in a thick layer.
8. 8
   Stick the skewers into the apple halves to keep the kebabs upright; don't let the kebabs touch each other.
9. 9
   Broil the kebabs for about 30 seconds, turning the pan as necessary, until the meringue is golden and caramelized in spots.
10. 10
    Alternatively, brown the meringue with a small blowtorch.
11. 11
    Serve the fruit kebabs right away.