Almond Crunch (Croccante-- -Italian) MAKES ABOUT 3 DOZEN
Croccante, which means cracklings, is similar to peanut brittle, except that this sweet confection is made from almonds or hazelnuts. Croccante is great party food. For gift giving, pile it into a fancy candy dish or decorative jar. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 3 cups blanched whole almonds 3 tablespoons water 1&1/2 cups granulated sugar 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Brush a marble slab or cookie sheet with the oil. Place all the remaining ingredients in a heavy nonstick saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring, for about 15 minutes, or until the syrup has turned a deep caramel color and is very foamy; it should register 300°F on a candy thermometer. Immediately pour the mixture out onto the oiled slab or cookie sheet, spreading it evenly with the spoon. Let cool completely. Cut the croccante into rough 1-inch pieces with a heavy knife. Store in airtight jars.
