Noghl - Iranian Almond and Sugar Coated Treat

Ingredients

• 2 cups (240g) whole almonds 2 cups (240g) whole almonds
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder
• 1/4 teaspoon rose water (optional) 1/4 teaspoon rose water (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat: 10g (Saturated Fat: 0.8g)
• Carbohydrates: 20g (Sugars: 18g)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and spread the almonds on a baking sheet. Roast them for 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
2. 2.
   In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. 3.
   Add the cardamom powder to the sugar syrup and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the syrup thickens slightly.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and add the roasted almonds to the sugar syrup. Stir well to ensure all the almonds are coated evenly.
5. 5.
   Transfer the almonds onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, spreading them out in a single layer. Allow them to cool completely and the sugar coating to harden.
6. 6.
   If desired, sprinkle rose water over the almonds for a fragrant touch.
7. 7.
   Once completely cooled, gently separate any almonds that may have stuck together.
8. 8.
   Serve Noghl as a delightful snack or alongside a cup of tea.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to roast the almonds until they turn golden brown for a more intense flavor. Be cautious not to over-roast them, as they can become bitter.
• Cardamom powder — Use freshly ground cardamom powder for the best flavor. If you don't have cardamom powder, you can crush cardamom pods and remove the seeds to grind them into a powder.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra touch of elegance, you can dip the cooled Noghl in melted dark chocolate before serving.
• Experiment with different spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to add a unique twist to the sugar glaze.
• Store Noghl in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and crunchiness.

Serving advice

Serve Noghl in small bowls or on a decorative platter to showcase its beauty. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of Persian tea or as a sweet treat after a meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Noghl in an aesthetically pleasing pattern on the serving dish. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or edible rose petals for an elegant touch.