Aloha Brittle

🌺 Aloha! 🌺 Brittle is a delicious and crunchy treat made primarily from sugar and nuts. It’s a popular confection known for its sweet and nutty flavor. Let’s dive into its history, components, preparation steps, and the time required to make it.

History of Brittle:
Brittle has a long and rich history. It’s believed to have originated in ancient India, where it was made with a mixture of sugar and nuts. It later spread to various parts of the world, including the Middle East and Europe, before making its way to the United States. In the U.S., peanut brittle became particularly popular and is often associated with the American South.

Components of Brittle:
The primary components of brittle include:

1. Sugar: The base ingredient that gives brittle its sweet and crunchy texture.
2. Nuts: Nuts like peanuts, almonds, cashews, or pecans are commonly used. These add flavor and crunch to the brittle.
3. Butter: Butter is often added to enhance the flavor and create a smoother texture.
4. Baking Soda: Baking soda is used to create tiny air bubbles, making the brittle light and airy.

Steps to Prepare Brittle:
Here’s a simplified recipe for making peanut brittle:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 cup peanuts (or other nuts)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Set it aside.

2. Combine Ingredients: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and water. Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Then, insert a candy thermometer.

3. Cook to the Right Temperature: Cook the mixture, without stirring, until it reaches 300°F (hard crack stage). This should take about 10-15 minutes.

4. Add Nuts and Butter: Stir in the nuts and butter. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture reaches 280°F.

5. Add Vanilla and Baking Soda: Remove the mixture from heat and quickly stir in vanilla extract and baking soda. Be cautious; it will bubble up.

6. Spread on Baking Sheet: Pour the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

7. Cool and Break: Let the brittle cool and harden for about 1-2 hours. Once completely cool, break it into pieces.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: Approximately 15-20 minutes
• Cooling: About 1-2 hours

So, from start to finish, you can expect to spend around 1.5 to 2.5 hours making brittle. Enjoy your homemade brittle, and share the aloha spirit with your friends and family! 🥜🍬🌴🌺

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information related to peanut brittle:

Nutrition Facts (per 1-ounce serving of peanut brittle):

• Calories: Approximately 152 calories
• Total Fat: 8.7 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Cholesterol: 3 milligrams
• Sodium: 68 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 16.7 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.6 grams
  • Sugars: 13.4 grams
• Protein: 2.9 grams

Health Information:

1. Caloric Content: Peanut brittle is calorie-dense, primarily due to its high sugar and fat content. Moderation is key to avoid excessive calorie intake.

2. Fat: While peanut brittle contains fats, a portion of these fats come from the nuts, which include heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. However, it’s important to be mindful of the overall fat content, especially if you’re on a low-fat diet.

3. Sugar: Brittle is sweetened with sugar and corn syrup, which can lead to a quick spike in blood sugar levels. Individuals with diabetes should consume it in moderation.

4. Protein: Peanut brittle contains a small amount of protein, but it should not be relied upon as a significant protein source.

5. Sodium: The sodium content is relatively low, making it suitable for those watching their sodium intake.

6. Fiber: It contains minimal dietary fiber, so it doesn’t contribute significantly to your daily fiber needs.

7. Portion Control: Due to its high calorie and sugar content, it’s advisable to enjoy peanut brittle as an occasional treat rather than a daily snack.

8. Allergies: Be cautious if you or someone you’re serving has nut allergies. Peanut brittle contains peanuts, and cross-contamination can be a concern.

9. Dental Health: The high sugar content can contribute to dental issues, so remember to brush your teeth after enjoying brittle.

10. Moderation: As with most sweets, moderation is key to enjoying peanut brittle without negatively impacting your health. It’s a treat best savored on special occasions.

Remember that the nutritional content may vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used, so it’s a good practice to check product labels or calculate nutrition based on your exact recipe if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.