Nougat: A Journey of Luxury and Tradition Through Culinary History

Nougat, a sweet that today is synonymous with Christmas celebrations, has a rich history that spans centuries and continents. This delicacy, mainly known in its Spanish and Italian forms, has roots that can be traced back to the time of the Arab domination in the Iberian Peninsula.

Nougat is not just a sweet, but a cultural element. It represents a fusion of Arab and European traditions and is a symbol of the gastronomic richness of the regions that produce it. Each variety tells a unique story of its place of origin, showing how a simple sweet can be a reflection of the history and culture of a people.

Origins and Historical Evolution

1. Arab Roots or even older:

Its origins date back to at least the 15th century, although some historians suggest it could have even older roots, in Roman cuisine.

Many historians believe that nougat has its origins in Arab recipes for sweets made from honey and almonds. The Arabs, known for their skill in making confections and sweets, may have introduced an early version of nougat in Spain during their occupation.

First Mentions: Documents from the 11th century already mention sweets similar to nougat in territories under Arab control.

2. Consolidation in the Iberian Peninsula:

Development in Spain: Over time, local ingredients, such as almonds from the Valencia region and honey from various areas of Spain, were integrated into the recipe, giving rise to nougat as we know it.

Regional Varieties: Different regions of Spain began to develop their own versions of nougat, adapting the basic recipe to local tastes and products.

3. Expansion and Popularity:

17th Century Onwards: Nougat became a popular product throughout Spain, and its fame spread to other European countries, especially Italy, where its own version known as ‘torrone‘ was developed.

Christmas and Festivities: From the 19th century, nougat began to be increasingly associated with Christmas celebrations, becoming an essential element in these festivities.

Ingredients and Varieties

Nougat is characterized by its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients. The traditional components are:

•Almonds: The heart of nougat. In Spain, mainly local almonds are used.
•Honey and Sugar: Provide sweetness and help form the characteristic texture of nougat.
•Egg White: Used to emulsify and give firmness to the sweet.

The most well-known varieties include:

1. Turrón de Jijona (soft): Characterized by its soft and creamy texture.
2. Turrón de Alicante (hard): Crunchy, with whole almonds inside.
3. Torrone in Italy: Varies in ingredients and textures, including versions with candied fruits or chocolate.

Top Nougat Brands

Here is a list of some of the most recommended nougat brands:

1. 1880: Founded in 1725 in Jijona, Spain, this brand is considered the most expensive in the market. 1880 has turned almonds and honey into symbols of the Mediterranean Diet, recognized by UNESCO. This company has played a key role in establishing Jijona as a world reference in nougat production.

2. El Lobo: Also originating in Jijona and founded in 1725, El Lobo is internationally recognized for its artisanal nougat. The company uses high-quality ingredients like whole cane brown sugar, free-range eggs, and 100% Spanish honey.

3. Suchard: This Swiss company, initially known for its chocolates, was founded in 1826 and began producing nougat in 1960. Suchard has expanded throughout Europe, offering a variety of nougats with innovative ingredients.

4. El Almendro: Founded in 1883 in Jijona, this family business has specialized in Jijona nougat and almond hard nougat cake, maintaining high prestige in the nougat industry for its quality.

5. Vicens: Originating in Lleida since 1775, Vicens offers a range of nougats including traditional and exotic flavors, taking advantage of the quality of local products like Agramunt chocolate.

6. Lacasa: Initially a chocolate shop founded in 1852 in Jaca, Spain, Lacasa has specialized in nougats, particularly those made of chocolate, making it their star product.

7. Turrones Picó: This family business from Jijona, also known for creating the Jijonenca ice cream brand, offers a wide range of nougats and has a presence in more than 15 countries.

These brands represent tradition and innovation in the world of nougat, combining artisanal methods with high-quality and exclusive ingredients.

Not Just Sweet: Pork Tenderloin with Nougat Sauce

We provide you with the recipe for a dish that fuses sweet and savory, creating a unique gastronomic experience.

Ingredients:

• 4 pork tenderloins
• 200 g of Jijona nougat
• 200 ml of beef broth
• 100 ml of cooking cream
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Aromatic herbs (thyme, rosemary)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the meat: Season the tenderloins with salt and pepper. In a hot pan with oil, sear the tenderloins on all sides until golden brown. Set aside.

2. Nougat Sauce: In the same pan, crumble the nougat and add the beef broth. Cook over low heat until the nougat dissolves. Add the cream and cook until a homogeneous sauce is obtained.

3. Finish cooking: Add the tenderloins to the sauce and cook over medium-low heat until the meat is cooked to your liking. During cooking, baste the tenderloins with the sauce several times.

4. Serve: Serve the tenderloins with the nougat sauce on top, accompanied by roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables.

This dish combines the tenderness of pork with the unique flavor of nougat, creating an exceptional culinary experience. Ideal for a special lunch or dinner.