Most people like to support the underdog and that is what we can do on March 26th which is National Nougat Day when people are cheering for this often-overlooked Candy. Whether you like your sweets soft, smooth, crunchy, fluffy, or a combination of all those, the iconic Nougat has got your back. The classic dessert is made with Whipped Egg Whites, Sweet Honey, and Roasted Nuts.
This version of the White Nougat is the most common one out there. Other forms of Nougat include brown, black, and beige each varying due to cultural differences. Nougat has an interesting history. You may have eaten a Chocolate Bar that is filled with Nougat a hundred times, but did you know that the original purpose of putting Nougat inside a Chocolate Bar was to create an illusionary Ice-Cream effect?
Did you know illusionary effects and magical journeys are part of Nougat’s history? While today Nougat is enjoyed all over the world with each region adding its unique flavors to it, there are many disputes as to where exactly Nougat originated from.
Some historical scholars claim that the first recorded instance of Nougat being consumed was in the Middle East during the 10th Century. Iraq, Syria, and Turkey have several Centuries-old manuscripts that point to their existence.
On the other hand, historians also have recorded evidence of Nougat existing in the first Century in Rome. Another fascinating story of Nougat’s origins points to a Chef inventing the recipe on the spot in honor of a Wedding couple.
As globalization increased over the Centuries, the humble Nougat traveled from the Middle East to Europe, and then to the rest of the world, gaining popularity as it did so. Before Nougat became common amongst the masses, Nougat was considered a luxury, only being eaten at special occasions like Weddings, birthdays, Christmas, etc. During WW2, Nougat was also rationed among Soldiers to give them a morale boost.
The word ‘Nougat’ originates from the French dialect Occitan and which means “Nut Bread’ or ‘Nut Cake,’ which is interesting because it does not have any key ingredients that make a Bread except for Eggs, and that too is only Egg Whites. With all these wonderful reasons at its core, National Nougat Day has a special place in many people’s hearts, and it’s not just because of its delicious taste.
National Nougat Day Activities
- To appreciate a Nougat in all its glory and flavors, consume the sweet without any add-ons. You will be able to relish the sweetness that will be accompanied by legendary tales about it.
- The inner child in us always squeals with delight and excitement when the smells of Sugar, Caramel, and Nuts hang heavy in the air. Lined with varieties of sweets that are an equal delight to the eyes as they are to the stomach, these stores take us on a nostalgic adventure of our childhoods which is why we should visit a Candy Store or two. Would you want to go with me?
- Don’t just limit yourself to one kind of Nougat when you can have other versions too? Of course, after following our first suggestion, you can dive deep into other nougat flavors. Including Italian Nougat called, Torrone or Turron, which is scented with Honey or Citrus Fruits.
Facts About Egg Whites
- Did you know Egg Whites are 90% Water and 10% protein, and this is a drastic difference in nutrition as compared to Egg yolks that are full of cholesterol.
- Containing about 54 g potassium, which is an essential electrolyte for your neuron-, bone-, and cell functioning, Egg Whites are the ultimate energy health bombs.
- Recent studies have shown that consuming Egg Whites can help reduce the risk of developing hypertension. Looks like I need to eat more Egg Whites. How about you?
- There is no scientific backing to this claim, but many age-old remedies point to Egg Whites being beneficial for hair growth and shine. Again I need to find some Egg Whites not only to eat but for my hair. How about you?
- Eating Egg Whites, which contain riboflavin (vitamin B12), can help prevent age-related diseases including cataracts and macular degeneration. Another reason I need to eat Egg Whites. How about you?
Why People Love National Nougat Day
- Nougat with Chocolate or Nuts and Raisins, Coffee, or even Wine, is a delicious treat that satisfies the senses with its various textures.
- Nougat’s versatility means you can add your preferences to it and still have it turn out great.
- Historians have debated endlessly about the true origins of Nougat as it has popped up in several regions in the world over the Centuries.
- What is interesting is that there is little to no chance for these regions to have had any contact with outsiders as travel was scarce due to its dangers and lengths in the old times. Yet despite these geographical distances, Nougat’s importance in many cultures shows how similar humans can be at the core.
- It is a truth universally acknowledged that humans have a separate stomach to store all sweet treats/desserts. No matter how full you may be, there’s always room for dessert and, in this case, there’s always room for Nougat. Isn’t there?
Nougat Candy
Ingredients
- 2 TBSP Butter
- 16 OZ Bag of Mini Marshmallows
- 18 OZ White Chocolate Chips
- 2 Cups Dots or Gumdrops
Instructions
- In a large bowl, pour in your chocolate chips. Add the mini marshmallows & the butter.
- Place bowl in the microwave. Microwave 90 seconds. Remove the bowl and stir to help combine the ingredients. Place back in the microwave and microwave in 15 second increments, stirring after each time. You do not want to over microwave, use a spatula to help mix the chocolate & marshmallows to reach a smooth consistency.
- Add in the dots or gumdrops. Use a spatula to combine.
- Pour into a 9 X 13 baking dish lined with parchment paper.
- Refrigerate overnight. Cut into squares. Enjoy!
Notes
Since my family hasn’t tried Nougat Candy and I hate to waste Food I was excited to find out we can do a half recipe by using a 10oz bag of mini marshmallows, 11oz bag of mini chocolate chips, 1 cup of dots, and 1 TBSP Butter. Spread into a 7×11 dish or slightly smaller.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
