Gather the Ingredients
To make a tirante, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of almonds
- 1 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
Prepare the Almonds
Begin by blanching the almonds. To do this, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the almonds. Let them boil for about a minute, then drain them and rinse them with cold water. Remove the skins by gently squeezing each almond between your fingers. Once blanched, set the almonds aside.
Cook the Sugar Syrup
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved completely. Once the sugar has dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until it reaches a syrupy consistency.
Add the Almonds, Vanilla, and Lemon Zest
Once the sugar syrup has reached the desired consistency, reduce the heat to low and add the blanched almonds, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir the mixture gently to ensure that all the almonds are evenly coated.
Cook and Shape the Tirante
Continue cooking the mixture over low heat for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture will thicken and turn slightly golden. Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the saucepan from heat.
To shape the tirante, transfer the mixture onto a clean, flat surface. While the mixture is still warm, shape it into a log, about 1 inch thick. You can use your hands or a silicone mold for this step.
Let the Tirante Cool and Set
Allow the tirante to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until it is firm and easy to slice.
Serve and Enjoy
Your homemade tirante is now ready to be served! Slice it into bite-sized pieces and enjoy it as a sweet treat on its own or pair it with your favorite dessert. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Now that you know how to make a tirante, you can easily recreate this delectable Spanish delight at home. Impress your friends and family with your culinary skills and enjoy the rich flavors of this traditional treat. Happy cooking!