It has also been suggested that the very word "torrone" derives from the Arabic turun, denoting a similar confection. This theory suggests a Sicilian introduction of torrone into Europe, via the Arabs in the twelfth century or earlier, though the Greek-and-Roman theory seems the more probable explanation. Of course, it is entirely possible that similar confections were invented during the same early period in China, Persia and the Mediterranean. The simple fact is that torrone's precise origin has been lost to time.

Torrone is a very simple noughat candy made from egg whites, honey, nuts (usually almonds) and --in some recipes-- cane sugar. The recipes of several popular commercial candy bars (Toblerone, Mars, etc.) are based on that of traditional Italian torrone. That's why the flavour of torrone seems familiar to many who try it for the first time after having tasted these other candies. The more honey (and the less cane sugar) that is mixed into the torrone, the softer the final product. The softer, honey-based version is the more traditional, cane sugar having been introduced in Sicily no earlier than the ninth century.

Almonds are widely grown in Sicily, where pistachios are also used in torrone. Of all the confections made in Sicily, torrone may be one of the oldest if, indeed, it was made by the ancient Greeks. The method of heating and mixing the ingredients is very important if the torrone is to be made successfully. The proportion of egg white to honey is particularly important.

In the early Middle Ages, and until around 1100, what distinguished Sicilian pastries and other confections from those popular in northern Italy and most of Europe was the extensive use of cane sugar (introduced by the Arabs). Torrone was a clear exception to this rule because it was often made without the addition of cane sugar. However, it could be stored for fairly long periods.

Traditional torrone isn't easy to find, either in Sicily or elsewhere. One of the best sources is Maria Grammatico's pastry shop in the western Sicilian town of Erice (at Via Vittorio Emanuele 14). Her unique torrone is a tender delight made with both almonds and pistachios. (A 200 gram piece costs €6.) The ingredients (in order of quantity) are: toasted almonds, pistachios, egg white, cane sugar, honey, flavoring (vanilla, orange, etc.). The delicious result is more than the sum of its parts.

About the Author: Roberta Gangi has written numerous articles and one book dealing with Italian cultural and culinary history, and several food and wine articles for Best of Sicily Magazine.