Canarian-style Almond Nougat

Ingredients

In this Canarian adaptation of Torrone di Cremona, we incorporate the flavors of the Canary Islands by using local Canarian honey instead of the traditional Italian honey. Additionally, we infuse the nougat with a hint of citrus by adding grated orange zest, which adds a refreshing twist to the classic recipe. We alse have the original recipe for Torrone di Cremona, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (240g) roasted almonds, roughly chopped 2 cups (240g) roasted almonds, roughly chopped
• 1 cup (340g) Canarian honey 1 cup (340g) Canarian honey
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1 tablespoon grated orange zest 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 220 kcal / 920 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 26g, 23g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.01g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Line a baking dish with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a large saucepan, combine the Canarian honey, sugar, water, and salt. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
3. 3.
   Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the saucepan and continue cooking the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it reaches 300°F (150°C).
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from heat and quickly stir in the chopped almonds, grated orange zest, and vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
6. 6.
   Let the nougat cool at room temperature for about 2 hours, or until completely set.
7. 7.
   Once set, remove the nougat from the baking dish and cut it into small bars or bite-sized pieces.
8. 8.
   Serve the Canarian-style Almond Nougat as a delightful dessert or wrap it in parchment paper for a sweet gift.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Almonds — Make sure to use roasted almonds for a richer flavor. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can also use almond meal instead of chopped almonds.

Tips & Tricks

• To achieve the perfect texture, it's important to cook the sugar and honey mixture to the correct temperature. Use a candy thermometer to ensure accuracy.
• For a variation, you can add a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds to the nougat mixture for an extra crunch.
• Store the Canarian-style Almond Nougat in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain its freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Canarian-style Almond Nougat as a delightful dessert after a Canarian-inspired meal. It pairs well with a cup of Canarian coffee or a glass of sweet Malvasia wine.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Canarian-style Almond Nougat bars on a platter and garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. For an authentic touch, you can also decorate the platter with colorful Canarian flowers or seashells.