Nougat
A candy made with whipped egg whites, honey or sugar syrup, and roasted nuts; it can be soft and chewy or hard and crisp. It is a traditional holiday and celebration sweet in Mediterranean cuisines.
What Is Nougat?
Nougat is a candy made by mixing whipped egg whites with honey or sugar syrup and enriching it with roasted nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios. It has a long tradition in Mediterranean cuisines, especially in the Montélimar region of France and in Italy.
It has two main textures: soft and white (Montélimar style) and hard and crisp (some regional Italian recipes); both are usually sold between edible rice paper sheets.
Nutritional Value of Nougat
Nougat provides about 420 kcal per 100 g and contains fat from nuts and a high amount of sugar. Values vary with the proportion of nuts and are approximate.
How Should Nougat Be Eaten?
Nougat is a candy and should be eaten in moderate amounts as part of a balanced diet.
This is general information; nougat is a food, not a medical treatment. People with nut or egg allergies should avoid nougat.
How to Choose Nougat
Good nougat is cream-white, has a visible proportion of nuts, and has a texture appropriate to its style (soft or crisp). Avoid products that look excessively hardened or damp.
- It should be cream-white, not darkened
- The nut pieces should be visible and evenly distributed
- Its texture should suit its style, not damp or sticky
How to Store Nougat
Nougat can be stored in its sealed package in a dry cupboard for a few weeks to a few months; moisture can damage its texture.
Using Nougat in the Kitchen
Nougat is most often eaten as a snack, served at holidays and New Year’s celebrations, or chopped and used to decorate ice cream or cakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nougat the same as halva?
No. Halva is generally based on sesame paste (tahini) or semolina, while nougat is based on whipped egg whites and honey or sugar syrup. Both can contain nuts, but they are made differently.
Can nougat be made at home?
Yes. Boil honey or sugar syrup to a specific temperature, slowly add it to whipped egg whites, mix in roasted nuts, and pour the mixture into a mold.
Is nougat available in Türkiye?
It can be found in gourmet markets and bakery or candy-shop sections, and is sold more widely around New Year’s.