Marshmallows are basically a meringue made with hot sugar, whipped egg whites, and a lot of gelatin, and then dusted with cornstarch and powdered sugar. Originally they were made with marsh mallow (found in marshes) acting as the gelatin. The plant gave the marshmallows a natural purple tint, hence the French name "guimauve."
Marshmallows in America are a cheap, Jet-Puffed, sci-fi treat, but they can be so much more. The ancient Egyptians served them in their courts and offered them to the gods, and in France they are an abundant children's favorite in candy stores. You can make them in any color, flavor, and shape: butterscotch, rose, peppermint... Today I made vanilla flavored hearts and wrapped them up with homemade hot chocolate mix.
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