How to make nougat with hazelnuts

If you have a sweet tooth and love indulging in decadent treats, making with is the perfect recipe for you. Nougat is a delightful confectionery made with a combination of sugar, honey, whipped egg whites, and nuts. Hazelnuts, with their creamy and nutty flavor, add a delightful crunch to the nougat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create this delectable treat:

Ingredients:
– 1 cup hazelnuts, ed and chopped
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– ½ cup honey
– ⅓ cup water
– 2 egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Edible rice paper (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Hazelnuts
To start, roast the hazelnuts in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until the skins start to crack. Allow them to cool and then remove the skins by rubbing them gently between your hands or using a kitchen towel. Chop the hazelnuts into small pieces and set them aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Nougat Base
In a large saucepan, combine the sugar, honey, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer into the mixture. Cook the syrup until it reaches the soft-ball stage, which is around 250°F (121°C).

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites
While the syrup is cooking, beat the egg whites in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form. You can use an electric mixer or do this by hand. Once stiff peaks are formed, slowly add the hot syrup to the egg whites while continuously whisking. Be careful while pouring the syrup, as it is extremely hot.

Step 4: Incorporate the Hazelnuts
Add the chopped hazelnuts and vanilla extract to the fluffy nougat mixture. Stir gently to ensure that the nuts are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 5: Shape the Nougat
Line a baking dish or tray with edible rice paper. This step is optional, but it provides a traditional touch and makes it easier to handle the nougat. Pour the nougat mixture into the prepared tray and spread it evenly using a spatula. Let the nougat cool and set at room temperature for a few hours or place it in the refrigerator to speed up the process.

Step 6: Cut and Serve
Once the nougat has hardened and set completely, remove it from the tray and place it onto a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut it into bite-sized pieces or long bars. You can wrap the nougat individually in wax paper or store it in an airtight container. Nougat can be stored at room temperature for several weeks or even longer in the refrigerator.

Now that you know how to make nougat with hazelnuts, you can impress family and friends with this delectable treat. Whether you savor it as a standalone dessert or use it in other recipes like nougat ice cream or nougat-filled chocolates, this homemade nougat will surely satisfy your sweet cravings. Enjoy!