Crisp Spiced Nuts

Crisp Spiced Nuts Recipe from USA - Egg Whites, Almonds, Hazelnuts, Pecans, and More!

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 30-40 minutes | Servings: 8-10

Introduction

Crisp Spiced Nuts are a delicious and addictive snack that is perfect for any occasion. These nuts are coated in a flavorful mixture of spices and sugar, then baked until they are crispy and golden brown. They are the perfect combination of sweet, salty, and spicy, making them a crowd-pleaser at parties or gatherings.

History

The history of spiced nuts dates back centuries, with variations of the recipe found in many different cultures around the world. Nuts have long been a popular snack food due to their high protein and healthy fat content. The addition of spices and sugar to nuts creates a unique and flavorful snack that is enjoyed by many.

Ingredients

2 large egg whites
1.5 tsp salt
0.75 cup sugar
2 tsp worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp paprika (preferably Hungarian sweet [1])
1.5 tsp cayenne
1.5 cups whole blanched almonds (about 0.5 lb (227 g))
1.5 cups hazelnuts (about 0.5 lb (227 g))
1.5 cups pecans (about 0.5 lb (227 g))
0.75 stick (6 tbsp) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
In a bowl, beat the egg whites with salt using an electric mixer until very foamy. Gradually beat in the sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and cayenne.
Stir in the nuts and butter, combining well, and spread the mixture in a large shallow baking pan.
Bake the nuts in the middle of the oven, stirring every 10 minutes, until crisp and golden, about 30 to 40 minutes.
Spread the nuts on a sheet of foil and allow them to cool.
Break up any nut clusters that may have formed.
The nuts can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Variations

Try using different types of nuts, such as cashews or walnuts, for a unique flavor.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and cozy twist on the recipe.

References

↑ Available at specialty foods shops and many supermarkets

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the nuts every 10 minutes while baking to ensure that they cook evenly and do not burn.

- Allow the nuts to cool completely before serving to ensure that they are crispy and crunchy.

- Store the nuts in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh for up to 1 week.

Serving Suggestions

Crisp Spiced Nuts are perfect for serving at parties, gatherings, or as a snack on the go. They can also be sprinkled on top of salads or yogurt for added crunch and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the nuts in the oven allows them to become crispy and golden brown without the need for frying.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute soy sauce or tamari for a similar flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Crisp Spiced Nuts can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Crisp Spiced Nuts in a decorative bowl or jar for a beautiful and tasty snack display.

Pairing Recommendations

Crisp Spiced Nuts pair well with a variety of beverages, such as beer, wine, or cocktails. They also make a great accompaniment to cheese and charcuterie boards.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Crisp Spiced Nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To reheat, simply place the nuts in a 325°F (163°C) oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Crisp Spiced Nuts contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Crisp Spiced Nuts contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Crisp Spiced Nuts contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Crisp Spiced Nuts contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Nuts are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc.

Alergens

Crisp Spiced Nuts contain nuts and eggs, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Crisp Spiced Nuts are a delicious and nutritious snack that is high in healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. They are a great option for a quick and satisfying snack.

Summary

Crisp Spiced Nuts are a delicious and addictive snack that is perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful mixture of spices and sugar, these nuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them as a snack on their own, or use them to add crunch and flavor to salads, yogurt, or other dishes.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning shades of red and gold, and there was a chill in the air that made me crave something warm and comforting. I had just returned from a trip to the local farmers market, where I had picked up some fresh nuts that were begging to be turned into something delicious.

As I sifted through my collection of cookbooks, looking for inspiration, I stumbled upon a worn and creased piece of paper tucked between the pages of an old recipe book. The words "Crisp Spiced Nuts" were scrawled across the top in faded ink, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew I had struck gold.

The recipe called for a mix of nuts - almonds, pecans, and walnuts - along with a blend of warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. The nuts were coated in a mixture of egg whites, sugar, and spices, then baked until they were golden and crispy. It sounded like the perfect combination of sweet and spicy, crunchy and chewy, and I couldn't wait to give it a try.

I remembered where I had first come across this recipe - it was at a potluck dinner with some friends many years ago. One of the guests had brought a batch of these nuts, and they had been an instant hit. I had asked her for the recipe, and she had been more than happy to share it with me.

I set to work gathering all the ingredients I would need, carefully measuring out each one and following the instructions to the letter. As the nuts roasted in the oven, the warm, spicy aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When they were finally done, I let them cool slightly before taking my first bite. The nuts were perfectly crisp and coated in a sticky, sweet glaze that was bursting with flavor. The combination of the warm spices and crunchy nuts was absolutely divine, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

I made a big batch of the nuts to share with my family and friends, and they were met with rave reviews. Everyone wanted to know where I had learned to make such a delicious treat, and I was happy to share the story of how I had come across the recipe.

Over the years, I have made these crisp spiced nuts countless times, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my tastes. Sometimes I add in a touch of orange zest for a citrusy kick, or swap out the nuts for a different variety. But no matter how I choose to make them, they always bring back memories of that crisp autumn day when I first discovered the recipe that would become a beloved favorite in my kitchen.

I have since passed the recipe on to my own children and grandchildren, and I know that it will continue to be a treasured family tradition for generations to come. The magic of cooking is not just in the flavors and textures of the food we create, but in the stories and memories that we share along the way. And for me, the story of how I learned to make these crisp spiced nuts will always hold a special place in my heart.