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This batch of Weasleys' Dragon Roasted Nuts brings a fiery, sweet crunch to your snack game. It's perfect for a cozy evening nibble or to jazz up your party platter with something homemade and full of character.
I whipped this up one night when I wanted something special to snack on, and now it's a staple for movie nights and impromptu guests.
Ingredients
- 16 oz mixed nuts: combining cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts and peanuts to provide a variety of textures and tastes. Look for fresh nuts without a musty smell to avoid bitterness
- 1 large egg white: to bind the honey and spices gently without making the nuts soggy
- 170 grams honey: for natural sweetness that caramelizes beautifully in the oven raw or unfiltered honey works best for complexity
- Kosher salt: to enhance the flavors tipping the balance between sweet and savory
- Ground cumin and cinnamon: add warmth and depth, grounding the heat in earthy tones
- Chili powder, red pepper flakes, and cayenne pepper: layer in the heat adjust according to your tolerance or use smoked paprika for a milder smoky flavor
- Cracked black pepper: provides a hint of sharpness that cuts through the sweetness
- Ground ginger and cloves: bring subtle aromatic notes making the spice blend complex and inviting
Instructions
- Build The Oven Setup:
- Preheat your oven to 250 degrees Fahrenheit which is low enough for slow roasting without burning. Prepare a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone liner to keep nuts from sticking and ease cleanup.
- Coat The Nuts:
- In a medium bowl, vigorously whip the egg white until frothy. This texture helps the honey and spices stick evenly to the nuts. Add the nuts and toss them thoroughly ensuring each piece is well coated.
- Mix Spices And Honey:
- Pour in the honey along with all the spices and Kosher salt. Use a spatula or spoon to mix everything well. The honey thins a bit with the egg white creating a sticky, flavorful glaze that will bake onto the nuts.
- Roast The Nuts Low And Slow:
- Spread the coated nuts evenly on the baking sheet. Place them in the oven and roast for 45 to 60 minutes. Turn the nuts every 15 minutes to make sure they brown evenly and develop a glossy finish without burning.
- Cool And Store:
- Let the nuts cool completely on the baking sheet, this sets the honey coating and maximizes crunch. Once cool, break them into chunks if clustered together. Store in an airtight container away from heat and humidity for up to two weeks.
The combination of warming spices and honey makes these nuts unforgettable. I remember sharing them around during chilly autumn nights with friends talking late into the evening. Cashews give a rich buttery bite while cayenne wakes up your palate in the best way.
Storage tips
Store cooled nuts in an airtight container in a cool dry pantry. Avoid refrigeration which can introduce moisture and affect crunch. For longer storage, freezing in a sealed bag works well but bring them back to room temperature before serving.
Ingredient swaps
Try using pecans or macadamias if you want richer flavor profiles. Substitute traditional chili powder with smoked paprika for a smoky aroma without as much heat. If honey is not available use maple syrup but reduce slightly as it is runnier.
Serving ideas
Serve these nuts alongside a cheese board to add a spicy sweet contrast. Sprinkle over salads or roasted vegetables for texture and flavor bursts. They also make a fun crunchy topping for oatmeal or yogurt bowls.
These roasted nuts bring a perfect balance of sweet and spicy that will elevate any snack time.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What nuts are used in this mix?
The mix includes cashews, almonds, pecans, walnuts, and peanuts, each contributing unique textures and flavors.
- → How long should the nuts be roasted?
Roast the nuts for 45 to 60 minutes at 250°F, stirring every 15 minutes for even cooking and a glossy finish.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness level?
Yes, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1/4 teaspoon for a milder touch without losing the warmth of the spices.
- → Why is egg white used in the coating?
Whipping the egg white helps the honey and spices evenly adhere to the nuts before roasting, enhancing coverage and texture.
- → How should these nuts be stored after roasting?
Allow the nuts to cool completely, then keep them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain crunch for up to two weeks.
- → Is there a way to make this mix Paleo-friendly?
Omitting peanuts from the mix makes this snack suitable for Paleo dietary preferences.