Spanish Salted Almonds
Spanish Salted Almonds Recipe - A Classic Spanish Delicacy
Introduction
Spanish Salted Almonds are a popular and delicious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or as part of a tapas spread. These almonds are coated in a savory egg white mixture and baked until they are crispy and salty.
History
Spanish Salted Almonds have been a staple in Spanish cuisine for centuries. Almonds are native to the Mediterranean region, and have been enjoyed in Spain since ancient times. The addition of salt to the almonds adds a savory element that complements the natural nuttiness of the almonds.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Whisk the egg white in a bowl until it forms stiff peaks.
- Add the almonds to the egg white and stir until the nuts are thoroughly coated. Transfer the mixture onto a baking sheet and spread it out evenly in a single layer.
- Sprinkle the salt over the almonds and bake for 15 minutes, or until the egg white and salt form a crust. Allow it to cool completely, then serve in bowls with a selection of other small tapas dishes, dips, and pâtés.
Variations
- Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Mix in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to spread the almond mixture out in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
- Be sure to allow the almonds to cool completely before serving to allow the crust to set.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Spanish Salted Almonds as part of a tapas spread with other small dishes like olives, cheese, and cured meats.
Cooking Techniques
Baking
Ingredient Substitutions
Use blanched almonds instead of unblanched almonds for a different texture.
- Use kosher salt or Himalayan salt instead of sea salt for a different flavor profile.
Make Ahead Tips
Spanish Salted Almonds can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Presentation Ideas
Serve Spanish Salted Almonds in small bowls or on a platter with toothpicks for easy snacking.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Spanish Salted Almonds with a glass of Spanish sherry or a crisp white wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature. To reheat, place the almonds in a 350°F (177°C) oven for a few minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Spanish Salted Almonds contains approximately 160 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of Spanish Salted Almonds contains approximately 4 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of Spanish Salted Almonds contains approximately 14 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of Spanish Salted Almonds contains approximately 6 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and manganese.
Alergens
Almonds are a tree nut, so individuals with nut allergies should avoid this recipe.
Summary
Spanish Salted Almonds are a nutritious snack that is high in healthy fats and proteins. They are a great source of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy and satisfying snack option.
Summary
Spanish Salted Almonds are a delicious and nutritious snack that is perfect for entertaining or enjoying on your own. With a crispy crust of egg white and salt, these almonds are a savory treat that is sure to please.
How did I get this recipe?
I can’t forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Spanish Salted Almonds. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was always sharing delicious recipes with me, and on that particular day, she decided to teach me how to make these mouthwatering almonds.
As we gathered the ingredients on the counter, Maria explained to me the significance of these almonds in Spanish cuisine. She told me that they are a popular snack in Spain, often enjoyed with a glass of wine or as part of tapas. Maria learned how to make them from her own grandmother, who passed down the recipe to her. And now, she was passing it down to me.
The first step in making these Spanish Salted Almonds was to blanch them in hot water. Maria showed me how to pour boiling water over the almonds and let them sit for a few minutes. This process helped to loosen the skins so that they could be easily peeled off. Once the skins were removed, we toasted the almonds in a dry skillet until they were golden brown and fragrant.
Next, Maria added a generous amount of olive oil to the skillet, along with some coarse sea salt and a pinch of smoked paprika. She explained that the paprika added a smoky flavor to the almonds, which was a common ingredient in Spanish cuisine. We tossed the almonds in the seasoned oil until they were evenly coated, then transferred them to a baking sheet to roast in the oven.
As the almonds roasted, a delicious aroma filled the kitchen. Maria and I chatted and laughed as we waited for them to be done. When they were finally ready, we set them aside to cool before digging in. The first bite was heavenly – crunchy, salty, and with a hint of smokiness from the paprika. I knew right then and there that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.
Over the years, I have made these Spanish Salted Almonds countless times. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, who have all raved about how delicious they are. Each time I make them, I am reminded of that special day in Maria’s kitchen, where I learned not just a recipe, but a piece of Spanish culinary history.
I have since added my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different spices and seasonings to create new flavor combinations. Sometimes I add a touch of cayenne for some heat, or a sprinkle of rosemary for an herby freshness. No matter how I choose to make them, these almonds always bring a taste of Spain to my table.
As I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel grateful for the culinary knowledge that has been passed down to me over the years. From my grandmother’s traditional recipes to Maria’s modern twists, each dish tells a story and connects me to the past. And I hope that one day, I can pass on this recipe for Spanish Salted Almonds to someone special, just as Maria did for me. Until then, I’ll continue to savor each crunchy, salty bite and cherish the memories that come with it.