Nougat is a type of confectionery that features a smooth, creamy texture. It is made from whipped egg whites and sugar, and often contains nuts, chocolate, or fruit. Nougat can be eaten on its own as a snack or used in desserts and other culinary dishes. In this blog post, we will discuss all you need to know about nougat! We will cover what it is, how to select it, how to store it, and some delicious culinary uses for this sweet treat!

What is Nougat?

Nougat is a type of confectionery that is made from sugar or honey, roasted nuts, whipped egg whites, and sometimes chopped candied fruit. Nougat is often found in candy bars and chocolate bars.

Nougat can be either soft or hard, but it is most commonly found in its soft form. The texture of nougat can range from being very dense and chewy to light and fluffy. The flavor of nougat is also very versatile, as it can be made with different types of nuts, fruits, and even spices.

Origin and History of Nougat

Nougat is a French confection made with honey and egg whites. It was traditionally used to make candy bars and other sweets. The word "nougat" comes from the Latin nux, meaning "nut."

The first recorded recipe for nougat dates back to the 13th century, but the confection was likely invented earlier. It became popular in the 16th century when it was often used as a filling for cakes and pastries.

During the 18th century, nougat was introduced to Italy and Spain, where it remains popular to this day. In Italy, nougat is known as torrone, while in Spain it is called turron.

Today, nougat is enjoyed all over the world and comes in many different flavors. The most popular flavor is chocolate nougat, but there are also fruit, nut, and cream varieties.

Culinary Uses of Nougat

Nougat can be used as a filling or topping in a variety of desserts. It can be used to make candy bars, ice cream, and other sweet treats. Nougat can also be used in savory dishes, such as chicken nougatine. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the culinary uses of nougat! Whether you use it in sweet or savory dishes, nougat is sure to add a delicious touch to your meal. So go ahead and experiment with this versatile ingredient - your taste buds will thank you!

- In Europe, nougat is often made with almonds, pistachios, or hazelnuts.

- In the United States, it is often made with peanuts.

Nougat can be flavored with chocolate, vanilla, or other flavors. Nougat is used as a filling in candy bars such as Snickers, Three Musketeers, and Milky Way. It is also used as a topping on ice cream and desserts.

Pairings with Nougat

Nougat pairs well with a variety of flavors, including fruits, nuts, and spices. Fruits that pair well with nougat include apricots, peaches, and pineapple. Nuts that go well with nougat include almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios. Spices that complement nougat include cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.

When it comes to alcohol, nougat pairs well with both sweet and dry wines. Sweet wines that pair well with nougat include dessert wines like Sauternes and Muscat. Dryer white wines such as Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc also go well with nougat. For red wine lovers, nougat pairs well with lighter styles such as Beaujolais and Pinot Noir.

If you're looking for a festive way to enjoy nougat this holiday season, why not try pairing it with sparkling wine or Champagne? Nougat also goes well with many types of spirits, including brandy, cognac, and rum.

Scallion Nougat Crackers Recipe

Ingredients:

-scallions

-egg whites

-the cream of tartar

-sugar

-honey

-vegetable oil

-sesame seeds

Instructions:

- Set the temperature of the oven to 375°F (190°C). Use parchment paper to cover a baking sheet.

- Scallions should be trimmed, and any brown or root ends should be thrown away and sliced lengthwise into extremely thin strips after being divided into thirds.

- Whisk the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy in a large bowl. As you whip the mixture to soft peaks, add the sugar and honey.

- Sesame seeds and vegetable oil are added gently. Scallion strips should not touch when you arrange them on the prepared baking sheet.

- For crisp and golden brown results, bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Enjoy!

These Scallion Nougat Crackers are the perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee. They are also great for entertaining, as they can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container. Enjoy!

If you're looking for a delicious and versatile snack, look no further than nougat! Whether you enjoy it in candy bars, on top of ice cream, or in savory dishes, nougat is sure to satisfy your taste buds. So go ahead and experiment with this tasty ingredient - your stomach will thank you!