Classic Salzburger Nockerl Recipe

Ingredients:

• 5 large egg whites
• 3 large egg yolks
• 60g (1/4 cup) sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Pinch of salt
• Butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)
• Berry compote or fruit sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F). Grease a medium-sized oval baking dish with butter generously.
2. Whisk Egg Whites:
   In a large, clean bowl, add egg whites and a pinch of salt. Using an electric mixer, beat the egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add the sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture forms stiff peaks. The meringue should be shiny and hold its shape.
3. Mix Egg Yolks and Flavorings:
   In a separate small bowl, whisk the egg yolks together with the vanilla extract and lemon zest until smooth.
4. Incorporate Flour:
   Gently fold the all-purpose flour into the egg yolk mixture to combine, ensuring there are no lumps.
5. Combine Egg Whites and Yolks:
   Carefully fold the yolk-flour mixture into the beaten egg whites. Do this gently to avoid deflating the airy meringue.
6. Shape the Nockerl:
   Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish, forming three large, distinct “mountains” to symbolize the hills surrounding Salzburg. Be sure not to smooth them out; the peaks give the Nockerl its signature appearance.
7. Bake:
   Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the Nockerl are golden brown on the top and puffed up.
8. Serve:
   Dust the Salzburger Nockerl with powdered sugar immediately after removing them from the oven. Serve with a berry compote or fruit sauce on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Value (per serving, without berry compote):

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 5g
• Sugar: 15g
• Fiber: 1g
• Cholesterol: 80mg
• Sodium: 50mg

Health Benefits of Salzburger Nockerl:

1. High in Protein:
   Egg whites are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and maintenance. This light dessert offers a good balance of protein while remaining low in fat.
2. Low in Calories:
   Despite its indulgent appearance, Salzburger Nockerl is relatively low in calories when compared to other baked desserts. It can satisfy sweet cravings without being too heavy on the stomach.
3. Antioxidant Boost (if served with berries):
   Serving this dish with a berry compote adds an extra dose of antioxidants. Berries like blueberries and raspberries are packed with vitamins and minerals that support immune health and help fight inflammation.
4. Lemon Zest Benefits:
   The lemon zest in the recipe provides not only flavor but also vitamin C, which supports skin health and boosts the immune system.
5. Low in Saturated Fat:
   The minimal use of butter in this recipe makes it a low-fat option, particularly low in unhealthy saturated fats.

Conclusion:

Classic Salzburger Nockerl is not just a delightful Austrian dessert but also a relatively healthy choice compared to heavier baked goods. Its combination of fluffy meringue and light sweetness makes it an ideal treat for those seeking a lighter, yet satisfying, dessert option.