Pistachio candy

Here’s a simple recipe for delicious pistachio candy, also known as pistachio nougat or pistachio brittle:

Pistachio Candy

Ingredients:

• 1 cup shelled pistachios (raw or roasted, unsalted)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup corn syrup (or honey)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/2 tsp almond extract (optional)
• Butter or cooking spray (for greasing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pistachios:

   • If using raw pistachios, you can toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant. Let them cool and roughly chop them.

2. Prepare the Pan:

   • Grease an 8x8 inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.

3. Cook the Sugar Mixture:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, stop stirring and let it come to a boil.

4. Heat the Mixture:

   • Using a candy thermometer, continue to cook until the mixture reaches 300°F (150°C) (hard crack stage). This can take about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

5. Add Flavor and Nuts:

   • Once the mixture reaches the desired temperature, remove it from heat. Quickly stir in the vanilla and almond extracts (if using) and the chopped pistachios.

6. Pour into the Pan:

   • Carefully pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Be cautious, as the mixture will be very hot.

7. Cool and Cut:

   • Let the candy cool completely at room temperature until firm, about 1-2 hours. Once cooled, cut into squares or break into pieces.

8. Store:

   • Store the pistachio candy in an airtight container at room temperature.

Enjoy your homemade pistachio candy! Let me know if you have any questions or need variations!