Strawberry Eton Mess for Mother's Day

1 . Stage

Combine strawberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, balsamic and raspberry vinegars, and basil in a bowl. Let sit until strawberries have released their juices and absorbed all the flavors, at least 15 minutes.

2 . Stage

Whip heavy cream in a chilled glass or metal bowl with an electric mixer until frothy. Add 1 tablespoon sugar gradually, continuing to beat until soft peaks form. Add sour cream and cream cheese and mix until evenly blended.

3 . Stage

Sprinkle some sugar into a heavy saucepan until the bottom of the pan is covered with a thin layer. Cook over medium heat and as sugar starts to melt, sprinkle in a little more. Cook and stir until sugar is caramelized and amber in color. Stir in almonds. Remove from the heat and pour onto a sheet of parchment paper. Place another piece of parchment paper on top and use a rolling pin to roll it into a thin layer. Allow to cool, then break into pieces.

4 . Stage

Place some marinated strawberries in the bottom of 4 serving dishes. Layer with cream and top with crushed meringues. Continue layers all the way to the top of the dishes, garnishing the top with caramelized almond pieces, more meringues, and strawberries.