The allure of nougat has always captivated my senses, with its chewy texture and nutty flavors. This recipe takes the classic confection to new heights by infusing it with the luxurious essence of saffron and enveloping it in rich dark chocolate. The unexpected combination of saffron, known for its unique aroma, and chocolate creates an extraordinary dessert that is both visually stunning and a treat for the palate.
### Ingredients
**For the Nougat:**
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup toasted almonds, roughly chopped
– 1/2 cup toasted pistachios, roughly chopped
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– A pinch of saffron threads
**For the Chocolate Coating:**
– 8 oz dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
– 1 teaspoon coconut oil (optional, for a glossier finish)
### Instructions
Prepare the Saffron Infusion:
In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water. Allow it to sit for about 10 minutes to release its flavor and color.
Prepare the Nougat Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, light corn syrup, and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Increase the heat and let it boil without stirring until the mixture reaches 250°F (121°C) on a candy thermometer.
While the sugar mixture is boiling, beat the egg whites in a separate bowl until soft peaks form. Gradually pour the hot sugar syrup into the egg whites while continuing to beat. This will create a meringue-like consistency.
Add the saffron infusion, vanilla extract, chopped almonds, and pistachios to the meringue mixture. Fold gently until everything is well combined.
Mold the Nougat:
Line an 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) baking pan with parchment paper. Pour the nougat mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Prepare the Chocolate Coating:
Once the nougat is set, remove it from the pan and cut it into desired shapes (squares or rectangles). In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. If desired, stir in coconut oil for a shinier finish.
Coat the Nougat:
Dip each piece of nougat into the melted chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the coated nougat on a parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
Final Touches:
Let the chocolate coating harden at room temperature or place the tray in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. Once set, you can enjoy your luxurious chocolate-covered nougat infused with the exotic flavors of saffron.
### Enjoying Your Creation
This chocolate-covered nougat is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Each bite reveals layers of texture and flavor, making it a perfect treat for special occasions or a delightful gift. The saffron adds an intriguing depth that surprises and delights the palate, while the rich chocolate wraps it all in a decadent finish. Enjoy your artistic creation!