Classic Italian Torrone

Pregătirea ingredientelor

Ingrediente

Mod de preparare

Pas cu pas

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F). Spread the almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

2. 2

   Toast the almonds in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until lightly golden and fragrant. Stir them halfway through to ensure even toasting. Set aside to keep warm.

   Aproximativ 15 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Keeping the nuts warm prevents the nougat from cooling too quickly and becoming unmanageable.

3. 3

   Line a 20x20 cm (8x8 inch) square pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on all sides. Place the rice paper sheets on the bottom of the pan.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

   Nota bucătarului: The parchment paper overhang will help you lift the torrone out of the pan easily.

4. 4

   In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the honey and granulated sugar. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

5. 5

   Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil. Cook without stirring until it reaches 145°C (293°F) on a candy thermometer.

   Aproximativ 20 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Use a reliable candy thermometer for accuracy, as the temperature is crucial for the torrone's texture.

6. 6

   While the honey mixture is cooking, in a large, very clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Ensure the bowl and beaters are completely grease-free for best results with egg whites.

7. 7

   Once the honey mixture reaches 145°C, carefully and slowly pour it in a thin stream into the beaten egg whites, continuously beating on high speed.

   Aproximativ 5 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Pouring slowly helps to temper the egg whites and prevents them from scrambling.

8. 8

   Continue beating the nougat mixture on high speed for about 15-20 minutes, or until it becomes very thick, glossy, and holds its shape.

   Aproximativ 20 min.

   Nota bucătarului: The mixture should be difficult to beat and pull away from the sides of the bowl.

9. 9

   Fold in the warm toasted almonds and vanilla extract until evenly distributed.

   Aproximativ 2 min.

   Nota bucătarului: Work quickly as the nougat will start to set.

10. 10

    Immediately transfer the mixture to the prepared pan and spread it evenly. You may need to press it down with an oiled spatula or your hands.

    Aproximativ 3 min.

    Nota bucătarului: Lightly oiling your spatula or hands will prevent the sticky nougat from adhering.

11. 11

    Place another piece of rice paper on top of the torrone and press down gently. Cover the pan with another sheet of parchment paper or plastic wrap.

12. 12

    Let the torrone cool completely at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until firm.

    Aproximativ 4 ore

13. 13

    Once firm, lift the torrone out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang. Remove the excess parchment paper.

    Aproximativ 1 min.

14. 14

    Using a sharp, heavy knife (lightly oiled if needed), cut the torrone into desired pieces or bars.

    Aproximativ 1 min.

    Nota bucătarului: A warm knife can help make cleaner cuts.