Spiced Nuts

Native American Spiced Nuts Recipe

Region / culture: Native America | Servings: 6

Introduction

Spiced nuts are a delicious and addictive snack that are perfect for parties, gatherings, or just as a tasty treat to enjoy at home. The combination of sweet and savory flavors, along with a hint of spice, make these nuts a crowd-pleaser.

History

Spiced nuts have been enjoyed for centuries, with variations of the recipe appearing in different cultures around the world. Nuts have long been valued for their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking, making them a popular ingredient in many dishes.

Ingredients

0.5 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp ground allspice
0.13 tsp ground nutmeg
0.13 tsp ground cloves
1.5 tbsp water
1.5 cup pecan halves, walnut halves, cashews or a combination

How to prepare

In a deep, 2 qt, heat-resistant, non-metallic casserole dish, combine the first 7 ingredients.
Heat, uncovered, in the Microwave Oven for 1.5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add 0.5 cup of nuts at a time to the syrup mixture. Stir until well coated.
Using a slotted spoon, lift out the nuts and drain any excess syrup.
Place the nuts in a shallow, 1.5 qt, heat-resistant, non-metallic baking dish.
Repeat the process with the remaining nuts.
Heat the coated nuts, uncovered, in the Microwave Oven for 5 minutes or until the syrup begins to harden slightly.
Transfer the nuts to wax paper and allow them to cool and harden.

Variations

Try using different types of nuts such as almonds, pecans, or walnuts for a unique flavor profile.
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Experiment with different spices such as ginger, cardamom, or smoked paprika for a twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to stir the nuts frequently while heating them in the microwave to ensure they are evenly coated with the syrup mixture.

- Allow the nuts to cool completely before serving to ensure they have hardened and are crunchy.

- Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and crunchiness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve spiced nuts as a snack on their own, or add them to salads, yogurt, or oatmeal for an extra crunch and burst of flavor.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect spiced nuts is to heat them in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure they are evenly coated with the syrup mixture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have dark brown sugar on hand, you can use light brown sugar or granulated sugar as a substitute. You can also use a different combination of nuts based on your preference.

Make Ahead Tips

Spiced nuts can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to restore their crunchiness.

Presentation Ideas

Serve spiced nuts in a decorative bowl or jar for a beautiful presentation. You can also package them in small bags or containers to give as gifts to friends and family.

Pairing Recommendations

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

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover spiced nuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds until warm and crispy.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of spiced nuts contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of spiced nuts contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of spiced nuts contains approximately 10 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of spiced nuts contains approximately 5 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Spiced nuts are a good source of vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc, which are important nutrients for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Spiced nuts may contain allergens such as nuts and spices. Be sure to check for any allergies before serving.

Summary

Spiced nuts are a delicious and nutritious snack that are high in protein and healthy fats. They are a great option for a quick and easy snack that will keep you satisfied.

Summary

Spiced nuts are a delicious and versatile snack that are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. With a combination of sweet, savory, and spicy flavors, these nuts are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Spiced Nuts. It was many years ago, during my travels to a small village in the south of France. I had always been drawn to the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas of the local markets, and on this particular day, I stumbled upon a quaint little stall selling an assortment of spiced nuts.

The vendor, a kind elderly woman with a twinkle in her eye, beckoned me over and offered me a sample of her delicious creation. As soon as I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn the secret behind these flavorful nuts. The combination of sweet and savory spices, toasted to perfection, created a symphony of flavors that danced on my taste buds.

I eagerly asked the woman for the recipe, and she smiled knowingly before handing me a weathered piece of parchment. The instructions were simple yet precise, detailing the exact measurements of each spice and the proper technique for roasting the nuts. I thanked the woman profusely and made a mental note to recreate her masterpiece in my own kitchen.

Back home, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work following the recipe to the letter. The warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air as I mixed the spices together, creating a fragrant blend that would soon coat the nuts. I carefully roasted the nuts in the oven, keeping a close eye on them as they turned golden brown and crisp.

As I took my first bite of the finished product, I was transported back to that bustling market in France. The crunch of the nuts, the burst of flavor from the spices – it was perfection. I knew I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and family, each time adding my own special touch to make it truly my own. I have experimented with different types of nuts – almonds, pecans, walnuts – and have even added a sprinkle of sea salt for an extra kick of flavor. Each batch is a labor of love, a tribute to that kind woman who shared her recipe with me so many years ago.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the familiar sights and sounds of my kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for the journey that led me to this recipe. It is a reminder of the joy that cooking can bring, the way it can connect us to people and places far beyond our own backyard.

So the next time you find yourself in a foreign land, surrounded by new sights and smells, be sure to keep an open mind and a curious palate. You never know what delicious treasures you may discover, just waiting to be brought back to your own kitchen and shared with those you love.