Nogha - Iranian Almond and Saffron Brittle

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 cup (150g) roasted almonds, roughly chopped 1 cup (150g) roasted almonds, roughly chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 1 tablespoon warm water 1/4 teaspoon saffron threads, dissolved in 1 tablespoon warm water
• 1/4 teaspoon rosewater 1/4 teaspoon rosewater
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 0.6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 22g
• Protein: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. 2.
   In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
3. 3.
   Increase the heat to medium-high and cook the sugar syrup, without stirring, until it reaches a golden amber color.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the chopped almonds, saffron water, rosewater, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat the almonds evenly.
5. 5.
   Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out using a spatula or the back of a spoon.
6. 6.
   Allow the brittle to cool completely at room temperature until it hardens.
7. 7.
   Once hardened, break the brittle into small, bite-sized pieces.
8. 8.
   Store the Nogha in an airtight container to maintain its crispness.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use roasted almonds for a deeper flavor. You can roast them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes until they turn golden brown.
• Saffron — Dissolve the saffron threads in warm water to release their vibrant color and aroma before adding them to the brittle mixture.

Tips & Tricks

• Be cautious while cooking the sugar syrup to avoid burning it. Stir occasionally to ensure even caramelization.
• Work quickly when adding the almonds and other ingredients to the caramelized sugar, as it will harden rapidly.
• If you prefer a stronger saffron flavor, you can increase the amount of saffron threads used.

Serving advice

Serve Nogha as a delightful dessert or snack. It pairs well with a cup of Persian tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Nogha pieces on a decorative plate or in a glass jar for an elegant presentation. Sprinkle a few saffron threads on top for a touch of sophistication.