Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light corn syrup
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 cups pecan halves
Special equipment needed:
- Candy thermometer
- Parchment paper
- Baking sheet
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, water, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until sugar dissolves.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, stop stirring and insert a candy thermometer into the mixture. Cook until the temperature reaches 300°F.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. The mixture will bubble up, so be careful.
5. Add pecan halves and stir until they are evenly coated.
6. Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it out evenly.
7. Let the pecan brittle cool completely before breaking it into pieces.
- Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Temperature:
- Cook until the temperature reaches 300°F.
Serving size:
- Makes about 2 cups of pecan brittle.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 160 per serving
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Light corn syrup can be substituted with honey or agave nectar.
- Pecans can be substituted with other nuts, such as almonds or cashews.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced pecan brittle.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled pecan brittle for a chocolate-covered version.
Tips and tricks:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause serious burns.
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the mixture, as metal utensils can cause the sugar to crystallize.
- Store the pecan brittle in an airtight container at room temperature.
Storage instructions:
- Store the pecan brittle in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- Pecan brittle does not need to be reheated.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the pecan brittle on a platter or in a bowl for snacking.
Garnishes:
- Garnish with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty flavor.
Pairings:
- Serve with a glass of red wine or a cup of coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
- Pecan brittle can be served as a dessert or snack on its own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the sugar syrup crystallizes, start over with fresh ingredients.
Food safety advice:
- Be careful when working with hot sugar syrup, as it can cause serious burns.
Food history:
- Pecan brittle is a classic Southern candy that dates back to the early 1900s.
Flavor profiles:
- Pecan brittle is sweet and crunchy with a nutty flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the pecan brittle as a snack or dessert.
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Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Crunchy, Caramelized