What country does pavlova originally come from?

Answer 1

Pavlova is a meringue dessert claimed by both Australia and New Zealand. The dish is said to have been named after Anna Pavlova, a Russian Ballet dancer, who was on tour in 1926 and 1929. Anna Pavlova was a famous ballerina and her dances are best described as light and airy, similar to the dessert.

Research indicates that the pavlova was originally from New Zealand. The Australian claim is that it was invented by a Perth chef in 1935; New Zealand claims are based on a recipes in a magazine and a cookery book from 1929 and 1933, with additional reports from a biographer stating that it was invented in 1926 after Anna Pavlova's visit.

Rivalry between the two countries regarding the origin of the pavlova has continued for decades - and will probably continue for many more. The article at the link below concedes that the dessert now known as the pavlova most likely originated in New Zealand, but that the actual name of Pavlova, after Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova, was bestowed upon it by a Perth chef.