Benne Brittle

Benne Brittle Recipe from West Africa with Sugar, Vanilla Extract, Lemon Extract, and Benne Seed

Region / culture: West Africa | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 12

Introduction

Benne brittle, a delightful confection, marries the nutty essence of benne (sesame) seeds with the caramel sweetness of sugar, enhanced by hints of vanilla and lemon. This traditional treat, often associated with Southern cuisine in the United States, offers a crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Perfect for holidays, gifts, or a simple snack, benne brittle's simplicity belies its rich flavor and texture.

History

The origins of benne brittle trace back to West Africa, where sesame seeds were a staple crop and integral to the diet. Enslaved Africans brought benne seeds to the American South, where they quickly became a part of both the culinary and cultural landscape. Over time, benne seeds were incorporated into various dishes, including this beloved brittle, which has been passed down through generations.

Ingredients

2 cups of sugar
0.5 tsp of vanilla extract
0.5 tsp of lemon extract
2 cups of parched benne seed

How to prepare

Add the extracts to the sugar.
Melt the sugar in a saucepan, stirring constantly, similar to making Peanut brittle.
Once the sugar is melted, quickly stir in the benne seed.
Pour the mixture onto a marble slab to cool or pour it into lightly buttered pans.
While still warm, mark the mixture into one-inch squares and break along the lines when it is cold.

Variations

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the mixture before cooling to balance the sweetness. Alternatively, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can add warmth and depth to the flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the perfect benne brittle, ensure your sugar is melted at a medium heat to avoid burning. Stirring constantly is key to a smooth texture. Adding the benne seeds at the right moment—when the sugar is fully melted but not yet hardened—is crucial for an even mix. Pouring the mixture onto a cool marble slab or a lightly buttered pan will help in achieving that classic brittle snap.

Serving Suggestions

Benne brittle can be enjoyed on its own as a sweet snack or crushed and sprinkled over ice cream for a delightful crunch. It also pairs well with a cup of tea or coffee as a mid-afternoon treat.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in making benne brittle is the caramelization of sugar. This requires constant attention and stirring to ensure the sugar melts evenly without burning. Quickly incorporating the benne seeds and spreading the mixture thinly are also crucial steps.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a different flavor profile, maple syrup or honey can be used in place of sugar, though this may alter the texture slightly. Almond or vanilla extract can substitute for lemon extract, offering a different aromatic note.

Make Ahead Tips

Benne brittle can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. Ensure it is kept in a cool, dry place to maintain its crispness.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, break the benne brittle into large shards and arrange them on a serving platter. Edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar can add a decorative touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Benne brittle pairs beautifully with strong, black coffee or a robust tea, such as Earl Grey. The bitterness of the beverages contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the brittle.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store benne brittle in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid moisture, as it will soften the brittle. Reheating is not recommended, as it may cause the sugar to melt and the brittle to lose its texture.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of benne brittle contains approximately 200 calories, making it a relatively high-energy snack. Moderation is key when enjoying this sweet treat.

Carbohydrates

A serving of benne brittle is primarily composed of carbohydrates, mainly from the sugar, contributing to its sweet taste. Each serving contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in benne brittle come from the benne seeds, which are a good source of healthy fats. A serving contains about 9 grams of fat, most of which are unsaturated fats that contribute to heart health.

Proteins

Benne seeds are also a good source of protein. Each serving of benne brittle provides about 5 grams of protein, making it a sweet treat that also offers some nutritional benefit.

Vitamins and minerals

Benne seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and B vitamins. These contribute to bone health, energy production, and overall well-being.

Alergens

The primary allergen in benne brittle is sesame seeds. Individuals with a sesame allergy should avoid this confection. Additionally, it may contain traces of vanilla and lemon extracts, which are generally not allergenic but worth noting for those with specific sensitivities.

Summary

Benne brittle is a high-carbohydrate, moderate-fat, and low-protein treat. It is rich in certain vitamins and minerals, making it more than just a sweet indulgence. However, its calorie content and the presence of sesame seeds as an allergen should be considered.

Summary

Benne brittle is a simple yet delightful treat that combines the rich history and flavors of its ingredients. With its crunchy texture and sweet, nutty taste, it's a versatile confection that's perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed on its own or as part of a dessert, benne brittle is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of finding this recipe for the first time brings a smile to my face. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the small town of Charleston, South Carolina. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious traditional Southern dishes, had passed down many recipes to me over the years. But the recipe for Benne Brittle was something special, something I had never tasted before.

I remember the day like it was yesterday. I was sitting at the kitchen table, watching my grandmother as she bustled around the kitchen, preparing a batch of her famous pralines. As she stirred the sugar and butter together in a large pot, I couldn't help but ask her where she had learned to make such delicious treats.

She smiled at me and said, "Well, my dear, this recipe was passed down to me by an old friend of mine many years ago. She was a lovely woman who lived on a nearby farm and made the most delectable sweets you could ever imagine. One day, she invited me over for tea and presented me with this recipe for Benne Brittle. I've been making it ever since."

I was intrigued. Benne Brittle? I had never heard of such a thing. I asked my grandmother if she would teach me how to make it, and she happily agreed. We spent the rest of the afternoon in the kitchen, measuring out ingredients and carefully following each step of the recipe.

The process was simple, yet the end result was truly magical. The benne seeds, also known as sesame seeds, gave the brittle a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch. The combination of sugar, butter, and vanilla created a sweet and buttery base that held everything together perfectly. And the best part? It was so easy to make, I knew I would be able to recreate it on my own in the future.

As the brittle cooled and hardened on the baking sheet, my grandmother and I sat down at the table to enjoy a piece together. The sweet aroma of toasted sesame seeds filled the air, and I couldn't wait to take my first bite. The brittle shattered in my mouth, releasing a burst of nutty, caramelized flavor that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before. I was hooked.

From that day on, Benne Brittle became a staple in my kitchen. I would make it for family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions, always receiving rave reviews from friends and loved ones. The recipe became a part of my culinary repertoire, a cherished memory of a day spent learning from my grandmother in the kitchen.

Over the years, I have made some slight modifications to the original recipe, adding a touch of sea salt for a savory contrast to the sweetness of the brittle. I have also experimented with different types of nuts and seeds, such as pecans and pumpkin seeds, to create unique variations of the classic treat. But no matter how many times I make it, the memory of that first batch of Benne Brittle will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, in my own kitchen, preparing a fresh batch of Benne Brittle to share with my grandchildren, I can't help but feel grateful for the love and knowledge that my grandmother passed down to me. Her recipes have become a part of my family's culinary history, connecting us to our past and preserving the traditions that have been handed down through generations.

And as I take a bite of the freshly made brittle, savoring the sweet and nutty flavors that dance on my tongue, I know that the memory of that first taste will always bring a smile to my face. My grandmother's legacy lives on in every batch of Benne Brittle that I make, a delicious reminder of the love and tradition that have shaped my life.