Get ready to transform your ordinary nuts into an extraordinary culinary experience that will have your guests begging for the recipe! These Spicy Rum and Rosemary Mixed Nuts are not just a snack; they're a flavor explosion that combines the warmth of dark rum, the aromatic punch of fresh rosemary, and a tantalizing kick of cayenne pepper. Perfect for cocktail parties, game nights, or when you simply want to elevate your snacking game, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
- 2 tablespoons dark rum
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, and pecans) and carefully spread them out to create an even layer.
- Drizzle the dark rum evenly over the nuts, ensuring all nuts are lightly coated to help the seasonings adhere and add depth of flavor.
- Sprinkle the chopped fresh rosemary over the nuts, distributing it as uniformly as possible to ensure each nut receives some herb flavor.
- Add the cayenne pepper for heat, using a light hand to control the spice level and create a balanced flavor profile.
- Dust the brown sugar over the nuts, which will caramelize during roasting and create a subtle sweetness that complements the spicy and herbal notes.
- Sprinkle salt to taste, using kosher or sea salt for the best flavor distribution.
- Toss the nuts gently but thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and each nut is evenly seasoned.
- Spread the seasoned nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not overcrowded to allow even roasting.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 12-15 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent burning and ensure even toasting.
- Remove the nuts from the oven when they are golden brown and fragrant, being careful not to over-roast.
- Allow the nuts to cool completely on the baking sheet, during which time they will continue to crisp up and the flavors will meld together.
- Once cooled, transfer the spiced nuts to an airtight container for storage, where they will keep for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
Tips
- Nut Selection: Use fresh, high-quality nuts for the best flavor and crunch. Mix different varieties for a more complex taste profile.
- Rum Recommendation: Choose a dark rum with rich, caramel-like notes to enhance the overall flavor of the nuts.
- Spice Control: Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat tolerance. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Even Coating: Make sure to toss the nuts thoroughly to ensure every nut is evenly seasoned.
- Oven Monitoring: Keep a close eye on the nuts while roasting to prevent burning. They can go from perfectly toasted to burnt quickly.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the nuts to cool completely to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and crunch for up to 2 weeks.
- Serving Suggestion: These nuts are perfect as a cocktail snack, salad topper, or gourmet gift when packaged in a decorative jar.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
