Devilled Cashews

Devilled Cashews Recipe - Authentic Cambodian Snack

Region / culture: Cambodia | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Devilled cashews are a delicious and spicy snack that is perfect for any occasion. These crunchy cashews are coated in a flavorful mixture of chili powder and salt, making them a tasty treat for anyone who loves a little heat in their snacks.

History

The origins of devilled cashews can be traced back to the early 20th century, when spicy snacks became popular in Western cuisine. The term "devilled" refers to the use of spicy ingredients, such as chili powder, to add heat and flavor to a dish. Cashews, with their creamy texture and mild flavor, are the perfect base for this spicy snack.

Ingredients

500 g (1 lb) of raw cashews
oil for deep frying
2 tsp of chilli powder
2 tsp of salt

How to prepare

Heat oil in a wok or deep pan. Fry the cashews over medium heat, stirring constantly with a slotted metal spoon until they are evenly colored.
Once the cashews turn pale golden, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels.
Do not wait for the color to become too deep, as the nuts will continue to cook in their residual heat after being removed from the oil.
After frying and draining all the nuts, combine chili powder and salt. Sprinkle the mixture over the nuts and toss well to evenly distribute the flavors.
Once the nuts have cooled, remove any excess salt and chili powder and serve. They can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week or two.

Variations

You can customize the spice level of devilled cashews by adjusting the amount of chili powder used in the recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

When frying the cashews, make sure to stir constantly to prevent them from burning. It's also important to remove the cashews from the oil as soon as they turn pale golden, as they will continue to cook in their residual heat.

Serving Suggestions

Devilled cashews can be served as a standalone snack or as part of a party platter with other nuts and snacks.

Cooking Techniques

Frying the cashews in hot oil gives them a crispy texture and allows the flavors of the chili powder and salt to infuse into the nuts.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use other nuts, such as almonds or peanuts, in place of cashews in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

Devilled cashews can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to a week or two.

Presentation Ideas

Serve devilled cashews in a decorative bowl or on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Devilled cashews pair well with a cold beer or a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover devilled cashews in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of devilled cashews contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of devilled cashews contains approximately 10 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of devilled cashews contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of devilled cashews contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Cashews are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, copper, and vitamin K.

Alergens

Cashews are a tree nut, so they may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

Summary

Devilled cashews are a tasty snack that is high in fats and calories, so they should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Devilled cashews are a spicy and flavorful snack that is perfect for any occasion. With their crunchy texture and bold flavors, these nuts are sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a little heat in their snacks.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Clara in her cozy little cottage by the sea. Clara was known for her exquisite taste in food and had a knack for finding the most delicious recipes. As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was greeted by the heavenly aroma of spices and nuts roasting in the oven.

"Ah, my dear friend," Clara exclaimed, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "I have just discovered the most incredible recipe for Devilled Cashews. You simply must try them!"

Intrigued by her enthusiasm, I eagerly watched as she mixed together a blend of cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of honey to create a mouthwatering seasoning for the cashews. As she tossed them in the mixture and popped them in the oven, I could hardly contain my excitement. The smell was intoxicating, and I knew I had to learn how to make these delectable treats myself.

Over the next few hours, Clara patiently taught me the recipe, sharing her tips and tricks for achieving the perfect balance of flavors. She explained how the heat from the cayenne pepper would complement the sweetness of the honey, creating a tantalizing combination that would keep you coming back for more.

As I watched the cashews roast to golden perfection, I couldn't help but marvel at the simplicity of the recipe. It was a perfect blend of sweet and spicy, crunchy and savory, all coming together in a harmony of flavors that danced on my tastebuds.

From that day on, Devilled Cashews became a staple in my kitchen. I would make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a special treat for myself. Each time I made them, I would think back to that warm summer day in Clara's kitchen, and I would be filled with gratitude for the wonderful friend who had shared such a delicious recipe with me.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own little twists and tweaks to make it my own. Sometimes I would sprinkle in a bit of smoked paprika for an extra kick, or drizzle them with a touch of maple syrup for a hint of sweetness. Each variation was a delight, and I loved sharing them with friends and family, passing on the recipe and the memories that came with it.

Now, as I sit here in my own kitchen, surrounded by the comforting smells of spices and nuts roasting in the oven, I can't help but smile. The recipe for Devilled Cashews may have come from Clara, but it has truly become a part of me. It is a reminder of the joy of cooking, the pleasure of sharing good food with loved ones, and the simple pleasures that can be found in a handful of nuts roasted to perfection.

So next time you find yourself craving a little something special, why not give Devilled Cashews a try? I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be sharing this delicious recipe with someone special, creating your own memories and passing on a little piece of culinary magic.