Chaja is a delectable dessert featuring layers of sponge cake, whipped cream, meringue, and peaches, creating a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. Originating in Uruguay, Chaja holds a special place in South American culinary culture, often enjoyed as a celebratory treat or indulgent dessert. The cake's creation is credited to the iconic pastry chef Orlando Castellano, who crafted this exquisite confection in the mid-20th century. Since then, Chaja has become a beloved dessert, cherished for its luscious combination of soft cake, airy cream, and juicy peaches. This recipe offers a simple yet sumptuous way to recreate the magic of Chaja in your own kitchen, perfect for impressing guests or satisfying your sweet cravings.

Ingredients:

- Sponge cake

- Whipped cream

- Meringue

- Peaches (fresh or canned)

Method:

1. Prepare the sponge cake if not already made.

2. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.

3. Crumble the meringue into small pieces.

4. Slice the peaches thinly.

5. Assemble the Chaja by layering sponge cake, whipped cream, meringue pieces, and sliced peaches.

6. Repeat the layers until the desired height is achieved.

7. Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top.

8. Refrigerate for at least an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

9. Slice and enjoy this delightful Chaja dessert!

Nutrition Value:

1. Sponge Cake:

  - Calories: Varies depending on recipe and serving size, typically around 200-300 calories per slice.

  - Carbohydrates: Mainly from flour and sugar, providing energy.

  - Protein: Relatively low, typically around 3-5 grams per slice.

  - Fat: Moderate, often from butter or oil used in the recipe.

  - Sodium: Varies based on ingredients, usually low to moderate.

  - Cholesterol: Varies based on recipe, typically moderate.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy but may lack significant vitamins and minerals unless fortified. 

2. Whipped Cream:

  - Calories: Approximately 50-60 calories per tablespoon.

  - Carbohydrates: Minimal, mainly from sugar if added during preparation.

  - Protein: Low, typically less than 1 gram per tablespoon.

  - Fat: High, primarily from cream, providing richness and flavor.

  - Sodium: Low, unless salt is added during preparation.

  - Cholesterol: High due to cream content.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains dairy fat, which provides energy and adds richness to desserts. Also a source of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin A.

3. Meringue:

  - Calories: About 50-60 calories per serving (approximately 2 tablespoons).

  - Carbohydrates: High, primarily from sugar.

  - Protein: Moderate, typically around 1 gram per serving.

  - Fat: Virtually no fat content.

  - Sodium: Low to none, unless salt is added during preparation.

  - Cholesterol: None.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Low in calories and fat, primarily consisting of whipped egg whites and sugar. Provides sweetness and light texture to desserts.

4. Peaches (Fresh or Canned):

  - Calories: Approximately 60-70 calories per medium-sized peach.

  - Carbohydrates: Mainly from natural sugars, providing energy.

  - Protein: Low, about 1 gram per peach.

  - Fat: Negligible amount.

  - Sodium: Very low, unless canned peaches are packed in syrup.

  - Cholesterol: None.

  - Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of vitamin C, providing about 17% of the daily recommended intake per peach. Also contains dietary fiber and antioxidants, promoting digestive health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.