I adore this recipe because it’s an explosion of flavors with a hint of spice and zest that makes snack time anything but boring. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up and impresses my friends with the perfect blend of crunch and aroma.
I adore a crunchy, spicy between-meal treat, making my Masala Nuts the ideal 3 p.m. pick-me-up.
They are a nut mix of such protein-packed power that you’d never guess you were snacking, instead of enjoying a mini meal. The blend of cumin, coriander, and turmeric I roast them in gives these nuts a spiced-up flavor, and a sprinkle of lime juice and fresh cilantro gives them an extra pop.
Be careful, though; after one handful, you might just find yourself hooked.
Ingredients
Mixed Nuts
Provide a balanced supply of protein, fiber, and healthy fats that promote feelings of fullness and a steady energy level.
Ground Cumin
Delivers robust taste, helps with digestion, and is high in iron, which is good for metabolism.
Ground Coriander
Imparts a flavor of citrus, is rich in antioxidants, and is beneficial for immune health.
Ground Turmeric
Provides bright color, delivers curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory elements.
Red Chili Powder
Immunity boosts come from vitamins A and C, added to that there’s spicy heat, and metabolism is boosted.
Garam Masala
Spice blend complex, flavors enhances, blend spice complex.
Total wellness and spice blend complex with flavors enhance.
Spice blend total wellness complex flavors enhance.
Fresh Lime Juice
Delivers a zesty, rich-in-vitamin-C, enhanced-flavor, immunity-boosting kick.
Ingredient Quantities
- 1 cup of mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, peanuts, and pecans)
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh coriander (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Your oven should be at 350°F (175°C) when you start, and a baking sheet should be lined with parchment paper when you place it in the oven.
2. In a mixing bowl of considerable size, combine the assorted nuts.
3. Pour the oil over the nuts and mix well to ensure they are coated evenly.
4. In another small bowl, mix together cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and black pepper.
5. Evenly distribute the spice combination over the nuts, and mix vigorously to envelop the nuts in the spices completely.
6. Evenly spread the spiced nuts on the prepared baking sheet.
7. In the preheated oven, bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden and fragrant.
8. Take the nuts from the oven and permit them to cool for a brief time.
9. Warm nuts tossed with fresh lime juice deliver a punch of tangy flavor.
10. Before you serve, sprinkle fresh coriander, chopped finely, over the dish. And then, enjoy! Enjoy your homemade Masala Nuts!
Equipment Needed
1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Small bowl
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Mixing spoon or spatula
8. Knife (for chopping fresh coriander)
9. Cutting board
FAQ
-
What types of mixed nuts can I use?
You can use any combination of your favorite nuts such as cashews, almonds, peanuts, and pecans. Feel free to substitute or add others like walnuts or hazelnuts. -
Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, you can try dry roasting the nuts, though the spices may not adhere as well without the oil. Alternatively, use a small amount of water or lime juice to help the spices stick. -
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
For more heat, increase the quantity of red chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. -
How long will the masala nuts stay fresh?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator. -
Can I use lemon instead of lime juice?
Yes, lemon juice can be used as a substitute for lime juice. -
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh coriander for garnish?
Fresh coriander enhances the flavor, but if unavailable, you can use a small amount of dried coriander leaves or even parsley. -
Is it possible to bake the nuts instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake the nuts at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden and fragrant.Substitutions and Variations
Nuts that are not mixed: If preferred, substitute with any one type of nut, such as walnuts or hazelnuts.
Oil: Use melted butter or ghee for a richer flavor, or substitute with a neutral oil like sunflower or canola oil.
Cumin, ground: For a different yet similar earthy flavor, substitute with ground caraway seeds.
Red chili powder: Substitute paprika for a milder spice; use cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
Lime juice, freshly squeezed: For a similar acidic taste, try replacing this ingredient with its counterpart—lemon juice.Pro Tips
1. For an extra layer of flavor, try dry roasting the nuts in a pan before combining them with the oil and spices. This can enhance their natural nuttiness.
2. Experiment with different types of nuts or even seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds to add variety and texture to the mix.
3. To ensure even coating and prevent sticking, consider using a silicone spatula to toss the nuts with the spices and oil thoroughly.
4. If you prefer a bit of sweetness, you can add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the spice and oil mixture for a sweet and spicy twist.
5. For added crunch, sprinkle a bit of flaked sea salt or toasted sesame seeds over the nuts right before serving.
Masala Nuts Recipe
My favorite Masala Nuts Recipe
Equipment Needed:
1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Large mixing bowl
5. Small bowl
6. Measuring cups and spoons
7. Mixing spoon or spatula
8. Knife (for chopping fresh coriander)
9. Cutting boardIngredients:
- 1 cup of mixed nuts (cashews, almonds, peanuts, and pecans)
- 1 tablespoon of oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon of red chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garam masala
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh coriander (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Your oven should be at 350°F (175°C) when you start, and a baking sheet should be lined with parchment paper when you place it in the oven.
2. In a mixing bowl of considerable size, combine the assorted nuts.
3. Pour the oil over the nuts and mix well to ensure they are coated evenly.
4. In another small bowl, mix together cumin, coriander, turmeric, red chili powder, garam masala, salt, and black pepper.
5. Evenly distribute the spice combination over the nuts, and mix vigorously to envelop the nuts in the spices completely.
6. Evenly spread the spiced nuts on the prepared baking sheet.
7. In the preheated oven, bake for 10-12 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the nuts are golden and fragrant.
8. Take the nuts from the oven and permit them to cool for a brief time.
9. Warm nuts tossed with fresh lime juice deliver a punch of tangy flavor.
10. Before you serve, sprinkle fresh coriander, chopped finely, over the dish. And then, enjoy! Enjoy your homemade Masala Nuts!