Chinese Fried Walnuts

Chinese Fried Walnuts Recipe | Origin: China | Ingredients: Walnuts, Sugar, Vegetable Oil, Salt

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 5 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Chinese Fried Walnuts are a delicious and crunchy snack that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of sweet and salty flavors makes these walnuts irresistible to anyone who tries them.

History

Chinese Fried Walnuts have been a popular snack in China for centuries. The recipe is believed to have originated in the Sichuan province, where walnuts are abundant. The sweet and salty flavors of the walnuts are a perfect representation of the balance of flavors in Chinese cuisine.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) shelled walnuts
1 cup granulated sugar
vegetable oil for frying
salt to taste

How to prepare

In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add walnuts and cook for 2 minutes.
Remove walnuts from water and coat them with sugar.
In a separate saucepan, heat vegetable oil and boil the walnuts for 4-5 minutes until cooked.
Remove walnuts from oil and lightly coat them with salt.
Break apart the nuts into smaller pieces.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or Chinese five-spice powder for a different flavor profile.
Use honey instead of sugar for a sweeter version of this recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the walnuts in the oil until they are golden brown and crispy.

- Make sure to break apart the walnuts into smaller pieces before serving to make them easier to eat.

- Adjust the amount of sugar and salt to suit your personal taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Chinese Fried Walnuts can be served as a snack on their own or added to salads for an extra crunch.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the walnuts in oil gives them a crispy texture and enhances their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Chinese Fried Walnuts can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chinese Fried Walnuts in a decorative bowl or on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Chinese Fried Walnuts pair well with a cup of hot tea or a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Chinese Fried Walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to crisp them up again.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chinese Fried Walnuts contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chinese Fried Walnuts contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chinese Fried Walnuts contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chinese Fried Walnuts contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Walnuts are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and phosphorus.

Alergens

Walnuts are a tree nut, so individuals with nut allergies should avoid this recipe.

Summary

Chinese Fried Walnuts are a high-fat and high-calorie snack, but they are also a good source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Chinese Fried Walnuts are a delicious and addictive snack that is perfect for any occasion. With the perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors, these walnuts are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I hold dear in my heart. It was during a trip to China many years ago, when I was just a young girl eager to explore the world and learn new things. I had always been fascinated by different cultures and their cuisines, so when I had the opportunity to visit China, I was thrilled.

One day, while wandering through the bustling streets of Beijing, I stumbled upon a small market where an elderly woman was selling an array of nuts and dried fruits. Intrigued by the vibrant colors and delicious aromas, I approached her stall and struck up a conversation. She spoke little English, but with a few gestures and smiles, we managed to communicate.

I watched in awe as she skillfully prepared a batch of Chinese Fried Walnuts right before my eyes. The walnuts were coated in a sticky, sweet glaze and fried to perfection, creating a crunchy and irresistible snack. I couldn't resist buying a bag of them to try for myself.

As I savored the first bite of the Chinese Fried Walnuts, I was transported to a world of flavors and textures unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The combination of sweetness from the glaze and nuttiness from the walnuts was simply divine. I knew right then and there that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

I spent the rest of my time in China shadowing the elderly woman, watching her every move and taking mental notes of the ingredients and techniques she used. She graciously allowed me to assist her in the kitchen, teaching me the art of creating Chinese Fried Walnuts with patience and kindness.

When it was time for me to return home, I bid farewell to the elderly woman with a heavy heart, but with a newfound passion for cooking and a determination to recreate her recipe in my own kitchen. Over the years, I practiced and perfected my version of Chinese Fried Walnuts, adding my own twist to the traditional recipe.

I shared this recipe with my family and friends, who all marveled at the unique flavors and textures of the dish. They praised me for my culinary skills and encouraged me to continue experimenting with different recipes from around the world.

To this day, Chinese Fried Walnuts remain one of my favorite recipes to make, bringing back fond memories of my time in China and the kind elderly woman who taught me how to create this delicious snack. I am grateful for the opportunity to learn from her and to share this recipe with others, passing on a piece of Chinese culture and tradition through the art of cooking.