Looking for a sweet, traditional treat for the holidays or a special occasion? Try this soft spanish almond nougat recipe! Made with Deliart Marcona almonds, honey, and a touch of lemon zest, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to create your own homemade nougat.
Ingredients
- 250 g Deliart Marcona almonds
- 180 g sugar
- 50 g honey
- 1 egg white
- 2 g ground cinnamon
- 5 g lemon zest
Instructions:
Grind the almonds: Blend the salted fried Marcona almonds in a food processor until they become a smooth almond paste. This process can take some time; stop periodically to scrape down the sides.
Prepare the syrup: In a saucepan, combine the sugar and honey. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes slightly golden. Be careful not to overcook.
Whip the egg white: Beat the egg white until soft peaks form. Then, gradually add it to the hot syrup while whisking constantly to create a smooth mixture. The heat will lightly cook the egg white.
Combine: Slowly mix the almond paste into the syrup and egg white mixture. Stir thoroughly until everything is well combined and forms a uniform dough.
Taste and adjust (optional): If the mixture is too salty, you can add a small amount of powdered sugar or honey to balance it. Conversely, if you’d like a slightly saltier nougat, you can sprinkle a little fine sea salt.
Shape and set: Line a rectangular mold with parchment paper. Press the mixture evenly into the mold.
Let it set: Allow the nougat to cool and set for 12-24 hours at room temperature. Once firm, cut into pieces and serve.
The Irresistible Charm of Salted Fried Marcona Almonds
The addition of salted, Deliart fried Marcona almonds brings a delightful twist to any dish or snack. Known for their buttery texture and delicate flavor, these premium Spanish almonds are elevated by a light frying and a touch of salt, creating a perfect balance of richness and savory notes. Their crunchy exterior and subtle sweetness make them an irresistible ingredient, adding depth and complexity to recipes like nougat, desserts, or even as a standalone treat. The salt enhances the natural nuttiness, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors that’s truly unforgettable.
Why Make Homemade Nougat?
Homemade nougat, especially the soft Spanish almond nougat known as Turron de Jijona, is more than just a delicious treat—it’s a heartfelt connection to tradition and craftsmanship. By preparing Turrón de Jijona at home, you get to control every ingredient, ensuring the highest quality and a personalized touch. Unlike store-bought versions, homemade soft Spanish almond nougat is free of artificial preservatives, colors, or unnecessary additives, making it a healthier and more authentic option for you and your loved ones.
Tips for Perfect Almond Nougat
Choose High-Quality Almonds: Marcona almonds are the star of the show, prized for their buttery texture and mild, sweet flavor. Using fresh, high-quality almonds will make a noticeable difference in the final result.
Grind Almonds Finely: To achieve the smooth, creamy consistency typical of Turrón de Jijona, make sure to grind the almonds finely. A food processor or high-speed blender works well for this.
Monitor Syrup Temperature: Be careful when heating the sugar and honey. Overheating can cause the syrup to crystallize, while underheating might prevent the nougat from setting properly. A candy thermometer can help ensure accuracy.
Incorporate Ingredients Gently: When folding the almond mixture into the whipped egg white, use a gentle motion with a spatula to maintain the fluffy texture and avoid deflating the mixture.
Press Firmly into the Mold: To achieve a smooth and compact nougat, press the mixture firmly into the mold using a spatula or the back of a spoon. This prevents air pockets and ensures a consistent texture.
Line the Mold Properly: Use parchment paper to line your mold for easy removal once the nougat has set. This also helps keep the edges neat and clean.
Allow Proper Chilling Time: Refrigerate the nougat for at least 2 hours, or longer if possible, to ensure it sets fully. Resist the temptation to cut it before it’s firm.
Store Correctly: Keep the nougat in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and texture. It can be stored in the refrigerator or a cool, dry place for several days.
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