Cumin And Cayenne Spiced Cashews
Cumin and cayenne spiced cashews offer a bold, smoky flavor with a hint of heat, perfect for snacking or adding crunch to salads and cheese boards. These roasted nuts are easy to make and keep well, making them a great homemade treat for spice lovers and snack enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 250°F.
- Whisk egg white with 1 tablespoon water until foamy.
- Add cashews and toss until coated.
- Strain nuts; shake and drain for 2 minutes.
- Wipe out bowl and add remaining ingredients.
- Add nuts and toss until coated.
- Spread nuts on a large baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 40 minutes. Stir with a spatula and reduce temperature to 200°F.
- Bake 30 minutes longer until dry.
- Use spatula to loosen from sheet.
- Let dry completely and store in an airtight container up to 1 week.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, you can use aquafaba instead of egg white, which works well as a binding agent. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon. Ensure the cashews are evenly coated by tossing them thoroughly; this helps achieve a consistent flavor. You can experiment with different spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These cumin and cayenne spiced cashews make a great snack on their own or can be served as a crunchy topping over salads, providing a delightful contrast to softer ingredients. They pair beautifully with a refreshing Fruit Salad Mixup for a balanced meal. Consider serving them at parties as a savory snack alongside Cream Cheese Puffs for an impressive spread.
Storage & Reheating
Once completely cooled, store the spiced cashews in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to 1 week. To maintain their crunchiness, avoid refrigerating them. If you notice any softening, briefly reheat in the oven at 250°F for about 5-10 minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cumin And Cayenne Spiced Cashews contains roughly 549 calories, with 11g protein, 106g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?
Yes, you can substitute cashews with other nuts such as almonds or pecans. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the nut's size and oil content. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure even roasting.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the heat level, simply decrease the cayenne pepper to your preference. Additionally, you can add other spices like smoked paprika or garlic powder for flavor without increasing the heat. Taste testing before baking can help you find the perfect balance.
Can I make these cashews ahead of time?
Absolutely! These spiced cashews can be made a few days in advance, making them perfect for parties or as a snack. Just ensure they are stored in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crunchy until you're ready to serve.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).