Crackerjacks

Crackerjacks Recipe from Mongolia - Learn How to Make This Classic American Snack

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

Introduction

Crackerjacks are a delicious and addictive snack that combines the sweetness of caramelized sugar with the crunch of toasted nuts. This recipe is perfect for snacking on during movie nights, parties, or just as a tasty treat to enjoy throughout the day.

History

Crackerjacks have been a popular snack in the United States since the late 19th century. Originally sold at baseball games, Crackerjacks quickly became a beloved treat for people of all ages. The combination of caramel-coated popcorn and peanuts was a winning combination that has stood the test of time.

Ingredients

0.5 cup of sugar
1 tbsp of kosher salt
1 tbsp of fresh ground black pepper
0.25 tsp of cinnamon
1.5 whole star anise, broken into points
6 whole cloves
2 tsp of szechwan pepper
2 cup of mixed nuts, toasted

How to prepare

1. In a bowl, blend together the sugar, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Using a spice grinder, finely grind the star anise, cloves, and Szechwan peppercorns.
3. Strain the ground spices through a fine mesh sieve to remove any husks, then combine with the sugar mixture.
4. Heat a large heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over high heat until it is hot enough to evaporate a bead of water on contact.
5. Add the nuts to the skillet and toss them until they become hot to the touch, which should take about a minute.
6. If necessary, reduce the heat to prevent scorching.
7. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mixture onto the nuts and shake the pan until the sugar melts and turns into a dark caramelized brown, which should take about a minute.
8. Add the remaining seasoning mixture to the pan and continue shaking until the sugar melts again and coats the nuts.
9. (Avoid using a spatula or spoon during this process as the sugar will caramelize onto them instead of the nuts.) Immediately transfer the nuts onto a baking sheet lined with foil.
10. Once the nuts are cool enough to handle, use your fingers to separate them, then allow them to cool completely.
11. Store the cooled nuts in a tightly sealed, clean, dry glass jar.

Variations

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Use different types of nuts, such as almonds or cashews, for a unique flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use a heavy skillet, such as a cast iron pan, to ensure even heating and caramelization of the sugar.

- Be careful when handling the hot sugar mixture, as it can cause burns if it comes into contact with your skin.

- Store the cooled nuts in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Crackerjacks as a snack on their own, or sprinkle them over ice cream or yogurt for an extra crunch.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting the nuts before adding the sugar mixture helps to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Crackerjacks ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Crackerjacks in small bowls or bags for a fun and portable snack.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crackerjacks with a cold glass of milk or a hot cup of coffee for a delicious snack.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Crackerjacks in an airtight container at room temperature. They can be reheated in the oven at a low temperature to restore their crunchiness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crackerjacks contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crackerjacks contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crackerjacks contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Crackerjacks contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Crackerjacks are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.

Alergens

Crackerjacks contain nuts and may not be suitable for those with nut allergies.

Summary

Crackerjacks are a delicious snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a tasty and nutritious treat.

Summary

Crackerjacks are a classic snack that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With their sweet and crunchy flavor, they are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my Aunt Mary's house. She was known for her delicious homemade treats, and that day she was making a batch of Crackerjacks. The aroma of caramel and peanuts filled the air as I watched her mix together the ingredients. I was mesmerized by the process and couldn't wait to taste the final product.

As Aunt Mary explained the recipe to me, I realized that it was a simple yet ingenious combination of sweet and salty flavors. The caramel coated popcorn and peanuts were the perfect snack for any occasion. I begged her to teach me how to make it, and she graciously agreed.

Over the years, I perfected Aunt Mary's recipe and added my own little twist to it. I would make Crackerjacks for family gatherings, picnics, and even as gifts for friends. Everyone raved about how delicious they were, and I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had mastered a recipe passed down through generations.

But it wasn't just Aunt Mary who had influenced my love for cooking. My own mother was a wonderful cook as well, and she had taught me many recipes that I still use to this day. I remember spending hours in the kitchen with her, watching her chop, stir, and season with such grace and skill. She always made cooking look so effortless, and I aspired to be just like her.

One of my fondest memories with my mother was when she taught me how to make homemade caramel. It was a delicate process that required patience and precision, but the end result was always worth it. The rich, golden syrup would bubble and sizzle as it transformed into a velvety smooth caramel that would coat the popcorn and peanuts perfectly.

I would often make Crackerjacks with my mother, and we would spend hours laughing and chatting as we stirred the caramel and mixed in the popcorn and peanuts. It was a time of bonding and creating memories that I will cherish forever.

As I grew older, I continued to experiment with different recipes and techniques. I would attend cooking classes, read cookbooks, and watch cooking shows to expand my culinary skills. I learned how to make gourmet dishes, decadent desserts, and exotic flavors from around the world.

But no matter how many recipes I tried, Crackerjacks remained a staple in my kitchen. It was a comfort food that brought back memories of family and tradition. Whenever I made a batch, the sweet aroma would fill the house, and I could almost hear the laughter and chatter of my loved ones.

I often wonder where Aunt Mary learned the recipe for Crackerjacks. Perhaps it was passed down from her own mother or grandmother, just like it was passed down to me. Regardless of its origins, I am grateful for the gift of this delicious treat that has brought joy to so many people over the years.

Now, as I pass on the recipe to my own grandchildren, I hope that they will continue the tradition and share it with their loved ones. Cooking is more than just following a recipe – it is a way to connect with our past, create memories, and nourish our bodies and souls.

So the next time you make a batch of Crackerjacks, remember the love and care that goes into each caramel-coated kernel. And know that you are carrying on a tradition that has been cherished for generations. Bon appétit!