Almond & cherry nougat

Almond & cherry nougat

Preparation Time

5 minutes

Cooking Time

25 minutes

Makes

About 16 squares

Ingredients

• Vegetable oil, to grease
• 2 edible rice paper sheets
• 320g (2 cups) almond kernels
• 285g (1 1/3 cups) caster sugar
• 60ml (1/4 cup) honey
• 60ml (1/4 cup) liquid glucose
• 2 tbs water
• 1 egg white
• 2 tsp rosewater
• 1 x 100g pkt red glace cherries, coarsely chopped

Method

1. Preheat oven to 180°C. Brush a square 15cm (base measurement) cake pan with oil to lightly grease. Line the base with 1 sheet of rice paper. Spread the almonds over a baking tray. Bake in oven for 8-10 minutes or until toasted. Set aside to cool.
2. Combine the sugar, honey, glucose and water in a medium saucepan and stir over low heat for 5-7 minutes or until sugar dissolves. Increase heat to high. Bring to the boil. Cook, without stirring, occasionally brushing down the side of the pan with a pastry brush dipped in water, for 4-5 minutes or until a candy thermometer reaches 160°C. Remove from heat.
3. Meanwhile, use an electric beater to whisk the egg white and rosewater in a clean, dry bowl until firm peaks form. With the motor running, pour the hot sugar-syrup mixture into the egg-white mixture in a thin steady stream. Use a metal spoon to stir in the almonds and cherries. Pour into the prepared pan and press firmly into the base. Top with the remaining rice paper sheet. Set aside in a cool, dry place for 4 hours to set.
4. Turn nougat onto a chopping board and cut into 2.5cm squares to serve.

Notes & tips

• Edible rice paper sheets are available from delis and health-food stores. Rosewater is available from specialty spice outlets. If it's unavailable use 1 tbs rosewater essence. You'll need a candy thermometer for this recipe. This nougat will keep for up to 1 week. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Source

Good Taste - December 2005, Page 21

Recipe by Sarah Hobbs