Melon Sorbet

In a deep saucepan, combine the water and the 1/4 cup sugar and bring to a boil over high heat. Do not stir or the mixture will crystallize. Continue to boil until it becomes a thick and clear syrup, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool.

Cut the cantaloupes in half, then remove and discard the seeds. Cut off and discard the rind. Chop the pulp coarsely. You should have about 1 1/2 pound pulp. Working in batches if necessary, place the melon pulp in a food processor fitted with the metal blade or in a blender and purée until smooth. Transfer the puréed melon to a bowl, add the cooled syrup and stir until blended. Cover and chill well, at least 2 hours.

Transfer the melon mixture to an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Meanwhile, using a clean bowl and an electric mixer set at high speed, beat the egg whites until frothy. Add the 1 teaspoon sugar and continue to beat until semisoft peaks form.

When the melon mixture is slushy and a little frozen, add the egg whites to the mixture and then continue to freeze until solid.

TO SERVE:
Spoon into bowls and serve immediately.