Toasted Almonds

Toasted Almonds Recipe from Spain with Cumin and Coriander Seeds

Region / culture: Spain | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Toasted almonds are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to a variety of dishes. This recipe combines the natural crunch of almonds with a flavorful blend of spices for a tasty treat.

History

Toasting almonds is a simple and ancient cooking technique that has been used for centuries to enhance the flavor and texture of this popular nut. Almonds have long been prized for their nutritional benefits and versatility in cooking, making them a staple in many cuisines around the world.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) raw, blanched whole almonds
1 tsp coarse salt, or to taste
0.25 tsp ground cumin
0.25 tsp crushed coriander seeds
2 tbsp olive oil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Spread the almonds in a shallow pan and place it in the oven. Bake until the almonds are lightly browned, which should take about 15 to 20 minutes. Let the almonds cool.
In a bowl, combine the salt, cumin, and crushed coriander. Toss the almonds with olive oil and sprinkle them with the seasoned salt. Return the almonds to the oven for an additional 5 minutes. Serve the almonds warm.

Variations

Try adding different spices such as smoked paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder for a unique flavor twist.
You can also experiment with different types of nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for a different texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to watch the almonds closely while they are toasting in the oven to prevent them from burning.

- You can customize the seasoning blend to suit your taste preferences by adding different herbs and spices.

- Store toasted almonds in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Serving Suggestions

Toasted almonds can be enjoyed on their own as a snack, or added to salads, yogurt, or oatmeal for extra crunch and flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Toasting almonds in the oven helps to enhance their natural flavor and crunch, making them a delicious and versatile ingredient in many dishes.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have olive oil on hand, you can use melted butter or coconut oil as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

Toasted almonds can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

Serve toasted almonds in a decorative bowl or jar for a simple and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Toasted almonds pair well with a variety of foods, including cheese, fruit, and chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store toasted almonds in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of toasted almonds contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of toasted almonds contains approximately 5 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, with each serving of toasted almonds providing about 14 grams of fat.

Proteins

Almonds are also a rich source of protein, with each serving of toasted almonds containing around 6 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Almonds are packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium.

Alergens

Almonds are a tree nut, so individuals with nut allergies should avoid this recipe.

Summary

Toasted almonds are a nutritious snack that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Toasted almonds are a delicious and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or added to a variety of dishes. With their crunchy texture and flavorful seasoning, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Toasted Almonds. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl learning the ins and outs of the kitchen from my own grandmother. She was a remarkable cook, with a talent for whipping up delicious meals and treats from scratch.

One day, as I was helping her prepare a meal for our family, she pulled out a small scrap of paper from her recipe box and handed it to me. On it was written the recipe for Toasted Almonds, a simple but delightful treat that would soon become a family favorite.

My grandmother explained that she had learned the recipe from a dear friend of hers many years ago. This friend had traveled to Spain and had brought back the recipe as a souvenir of her trip. The combination of toasted almonds, sugar, and a touch of salt created a snack that was both sweet and savory, perfect for munching on while sipping a cup of tea.

As my grandmother walked me through the steps of making the Toasted Almonds, I marveled at how such a handful of ingredients could come together to create something so delicious. I watched as she heated a skillet on the stove and added the almonds, patiently stirring them until they were golden brown and fragrant.

Next, she sprinkled in a generous amount of sugar, which quickly melted and coated each almond with a sweet, caramelized glaze. A pinch of salt was added for balance, enhancing the nutty flavor of the almonds.

The aroma that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. My grandmother poured the Toasted Almonds onto a baking sheet to cool, and I eagerly snatched a few to try.

The first bite was pure bliss. The crunch of the almonds, the sweetness of the sugar, and the hint of salt all melded together in perfect harmony. I couldn't believe something so simple could be so incredibly delicious.

From that day on, Toasted Almonds became a staple in our household. My grandmother would often make a batch to have on hand for snacking, or to sprinkle over salads and desserts for an extra crunch.

As I grew older and started my own family, I carried on the tradition of making Toasted Almonds. I would often think back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen, watching in awe as she transformed a handful of almonds into a mouthwatering treat.

I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the simple yet delicious snack that had brought me so much joy over the years. Each time I made Toasted Almonds, I felt connected to my grandmother and the legacy of culinary knowledge she had passed down to me.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, making a batch of Toasted Almonds for my grandchildren, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the recipes and traditions that have shaped my life. The simple pleasure of sharing a homemade treat with loved ones is a gift that transcends time and brings us closer together.

And as I watch my grandchildren eagerly reach for a handful of Toasted Almonds, their eyes alight with the same sense of wonder I once felt, I know that the legacy of this recipe will continue to live on for generations to come.