Nut Brittle

2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
2 tablespoons butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup water
1 1/2 cups pecans, unsalted roasted pumpkin
    seeds, pinons or salted roasted peanuts*
1/2 teaspoon baking soda

Butter a 20-inch length of heavy aluminum foil.

Combine sugar, corn syrup, butter, salt and water in a large non-reactive pot. Bring to a boil. Whisk to dissolve the sugar, reduce the heat, and cook gently until the mixture reaches the soft ball stage (234 degrees F) on a candy thermometer (about 20 minutes). Stir in the nuts and simmer until the hard crack stage (290 degrees F), about 15 minutes.

Add baking soda and whisk until the bubbling stops and the mixture settles. Immediately pour the mixture onto the prepared aluminum foil; spread 1/4-inch thick with a wooden spoon. Let set for at least 20 minutes, then break into pieces.

* Using a combination of any or all of these nuts also makes a wonderful candy.