Nougat Noir

Directions

1. 1
   Rub the butter on a slab of marble.
2. 2
   Pour the honey in a saucepan.
3. 3
   Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook over a low heat for 10 minutes.
4. 4
   Add the almonds and continue cooking for another 10 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. 5
   The honey will begin to thicken and turn an amber color.
6. 6
   To test if the nougat is ready, drop a teaspoon of honey into a glass of cold water; it should harden immediately.
7. 7
   Remove honey from the heat and stir for 2 more minutes.
8. 8
   Carefully pour the honey mixture onto the buttered marble slab (it will still be very hot).
9. 9
   Smooth the mixture with a metal spoon to spread the almonds evenly.
10. 10
    When the nougat is completely cool, break it into 2 inch pieces with the back of a knife.
11. 11
    Store in a cool place.