Nougat, the Healthy Sweet Alternative
Nougat is a light, airy treat with a fudge-like consistency. Egg whites, sugar, and honey are the main ingredients. Berries, nuts, and seeds are yummy additions to this traditional sweet bar to provide some variation to the sugary delight. Homemade nougat or specialist store nougat dramatically differ from what the product looks like in a chocolate bar from the supermarket. This blog delves into the origins and history of nougat, the types of nougat, and how to make it.
Nougat History and Facts
It appears that nougat’s narrative began in the Mediterranean region before the birth of Christ. Experts speculate that the Greeks and Romans may have made similar foods for extended voyages or journeys. Nougat also may have originated in Spain, where it was first in circulation by Arabs residing on the Iberian Peninsula. It is possible that Muslims brought the custom of combining honey with nuts. Nougat is a nutrient-dense, self-stable food that requires minimal processing or preservation techniques.
Roughly, 3000 tons of nougat are produced annually in the UK. About 300 people work in the nougat industry. It is an estimate that 2200 tons of nougat are produced industrially. England is a great importer of nougat. Belgium, Switzerland, the United States, Canada, and Germany enjoy nougat.
Nougat is meant to be eaten as a bar, broken into small pieces and slices. There’s no wrong way to do it. Personal preference wins.
Nougat, the Healthy Sweet Alternative. Taste, Consistency and Health
Good nougat has a marshmallow-like flavor and is extremely sweet and creamy. It should also have a lot of fluff factor and be chewy. It is considered a heart-healthy food. Nougat is full of proteins, vitamins and fibre from all natural sources. It is also low in fat. The product is not recommended as a weight loss product though. Uh,oh. There are culinary and dessert uses for nougat. That’s a topic for another time.
Nougat, the Healthy Sweet Alternative. Nougat Types
There are three types of nougat. First, people are familiar with white nougat, the most common variety. In the UK, nougat can also be pink and is fruit-flavoured. Second, brown nougat is caramelised sugar in place of egg white. Finally, Viennese nougat contains cocoa. It looks like a large chocolate roll.
Nougat, the Healthy Sweet Alternative. Best Pairings
Nougat can be eaten plain. What’s the fun in that though? Experiment with the best fruit pairings for nougat: apricots, pineapple, mango, peaches, and berries. Nougat pairings also go well with almonds, pistachios, and hazelnuts. Seeds are another variety to consider, too. Remember sweet spices like cinnamon, cloves and ginger to enhance flavours. Add vanilla or rosewater for an experiment. A little sparkling wine, dessert wines, white and red, and Champagne complement nougat nicely. Spirits like brandy, cognac, and rum are also good pairing choices.
Nougat, the Healthy Sweet Alternative. Making Nougat
Method 1. Prepare the syrup with sugar. 2. Whisk the egg whites. When the syrup is done, begin to beat. Time is of the essence. 3. Beat egg whites and sugar syrup together. Beat until the mixture cools down. Now is the moment to incorporate your favored flavors, such as vanilla. 4. Fold in almonds or additional filling options. Coat the spatula with cooking spray to keep it from sticking. 5. Allow the nougat to cool. Transfer to a greased or sprayed pan. Give the product a few hours to cool. Slice, cut, and sort between parchment or wax paper layers in an airtight container.
Places to Find Nougat
If crafting nougat in the kitchen isn’t an option for you, there are plenty of specialty stores in the UK to cater to individuals who need their fix right away.
The award-winning Continental Nougat from Walnut Tree is a delightful combination of sweetness. Each package contains four distinct nougat bars. The flavors of the individually wrapped bars are sweet strawberry, chewy, tangy cranberry, soft pistachio, and traditional crisp almond nougat. Lovingly hand-packed in the UK. The contents may change depending on the season. For £13, get luxury with every bite. Place an order using SKU code RBNO at walnut.gifts.
If you’re out shopping and want to pick up a box of this award winning nougat pop into you local John Lewis & Partners food department. They have a wide range of products hand packed in Britain by Walnut Tree.
There are almost limitless ways to construct or select from the three fundamental varieties of nougat. This chewy goodness was a favorite food of the Greeks, Romans, and Arabs for centuries. Purchase nougat from a specialty store or make it yourself. Make or create a recipe you or your loved ones will like, or keep it all for yourself.
Which type of nougat is your favourite? Tell us about it. We search for fresh concepts for our products.
About Walnut Tree- the finest edible gifts
Great Taste Awards
With Great Taste Awards for nougat, dried fruit, marron glacé, glacé fruit and pate de fruit. You’ll always be purchasing quality products from Walnut Tree.
Who we supply
Supplied under own brand or white label to prestigious stores, palaces, castles, stately homes, garden centres, delicatessens, farm shops, hamper companies, department stores and gift shops.
Why buy from us?
You’re buying directly from the source and will get excellent value for money. If you’re not happy with your purchase, we’ll refund or replace it. The website is open 24/7, orders despatched within 48 hours.
Our charitable contributions
Walnut Tree supports Future Dreams Breast Cancer Charity with dried fruit for their care packages. www.futuredreams.org.uk
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