Introduction
Nougat is a classic candy that has been used in chocolate bars for decades. This sweet and chewy treat is made up of a few key ingredients that work together to create a delicious flavor and texture. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ingredients that make up the nougat in chocolate bars and explain how they work together to create a tasty treat.
Sugar – the main ingredient
Sugar is the main ingredient in nougat and is responsible for its sweet taste. Typically, a combination of granulated sugar and powdered sugar is used. The granulated sugar is melted over high heat until it reaches a temperature of 320°F and then mixed with the powdered sugar to create a smooth paste. This mixture is the base for the nougat and provides the necessary sweetness.
Glucose syrup – binder and sweetener
Glucose syrup is a thick, clear liquid that is derived from corn. It is used as a binder and sweetener in nougat. Glucose syrup is added to the sugar mixture and cooked until it reaches a temperature of 240°F. This mixture helps to bind the other ingredients together and also adds sweetness to the nougat.
Honey – flavor enhancer
Honey is a natural sweetener that is often used in nougat to enhance its flavor. It is added to the mixture after the glucose syrup has been incorporated. Honey provides a unique taste to the nougat that cannot be replicated with any other ingredient.
Egg whites – provides structure
Egg whites are used in nougat to provide structure. They are whipped until they form stiff peaks and then folded into the sugar mixture. This mixture is then cooked until it reaches a temperature of 250°F. The egg whites help to create the chewy texture of nougat.
Nuts – for texture and taste
Nuts are often added to nougat for texture and taste. Almonds, hazelnuts, and pistachios are some of the most common nuts used. The nuts are toasted and then mixed into the sugar mixture before the egg whites are added.
Vanilla – adds flavor
Vanilla is a common flavoring used in nougat. It is added to the mixture after the nuts have been incorporated. Vanilla provides a subtle, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in the nougat.
Chocolate – coating and more flavor
Chocolate is often used as a coating for nougat in chocolate bars. It provides a delicious, chocolatey flavor that complements the nougat. Chocolate can also be mixed into the nougat mixture to provide a more intense chocolate flavor.
Salt – balances flavors
Salt is added to nougat to balance out the sweetness. It is added to the mixture after the nuts have been incorporated. Salt provides a subtle savory flavor that helps to balance out the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Food additives – preservatives and texture enhancers
Food additives such as cornstarch, gelatin, and lecithin are often used in nougat to improve its texture and provide preservative properties. Cornstarch and gelatin help to thicken the mixture and provide a chewy texture. Lecithin helps to emulsify the ingredients and prevent separation.
Making nougat for chocolate bars
To make nougat for chocolate bars, the sugar, glucose syrup, and honey are combined and cooked until they reach the desired temperature. The nuts, vanilla, and salt are then added to the mixture. The egg whites are whipped until stiff peaks form and then folded into the sugar mixture. The nougat is then poured into molds and allowed to cool before being coated in chocolate.
Conclusion
The ingredients used in nougat work together to create a sweet and chewy treat that is often used in chocolate bars. Sugar, glucose syrup, honey, and egg whites provide the base for the nougat, while nuts, vanilla, and salt add texture and flavor. Chocolate is often used as a coating and provides additional flavor. Food additives help to improve the texture and provide preservative properties. Making nougat for chocolate bars is a delicate process that requires precision and attention to detail, but the end result is a delicious candy that is enjoyed by people all over the world.
