Nougat with Nuts and Dried Fruits

Introduction:

Nougat is a sweet and chewy confection made with sugar, honey, egg whites, and loaded with roasted nuts and dried fruits. It’s a delightful treat, often enjoyed during festive seasons or as a delicious homemade snack.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of mixed nuts (almonds, pistachios, macadamias)
• 1 cup of mixed dried fruits (cranberries, cherries, apricots)
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 2 egg whites
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Edible rice paper for lining (optional)

Instructions:

1. Roast the Nuts: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the nuts on a baking sheet and roast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Sugar Mixture: In a saucepan, combine sugar, honey, and a splash of water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil and continue cooking without stirring until it reaches 250°F (120°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Whip the Egg Whites: While the sugar mixture is cooking, beat the egg whites with salt in a stand mixer until soft peaks form.
4. Combine the Mixtures: Once the sugar syrup reaches the correct temperature, slowly pour it into the beaten egg whites while continuing to beat. Be cautious, as the syrup will be extremely hot. Add the vanilla extract and beat until the mixture thickens.
5. Add the Nuts and Dried Fruits: Gently fold in the roasted nuts and dried fruits until evenly distributed throughout the nougat mixture.
6. Shape the Nougat: Line a baking dish with parchment paper or edible rice paper. Pour the nougat mixture into the dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Let it Set: Allow the nougat to cool completely at room temperature, or refrigerate for quicker setting.
8. Cut and Serve: Once set, remove the nougat from the dish and cut it into bars or squares.

Conclusion:

This nutty and fruity nougat is a perfect combination of crunchy roasted nuts and chewy dried fruits, wrapped in a soft, sweet candy. Enjoy it as a special treat or share it as a gift during the holiday season.