Curried Pecans
Sweet and spicy curried pecans with a hint of ginger and chutney, perfect as a snack or party appetizer, appealing to those who love bold flavors and crunchy textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the pecan halves on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for about 10 minutes.
- Remove the nuts from the oven but leave the oven turned on.
- Melt the butter and peanut oil in a large skillet.
- Add the brown sugar, salt, curry powder, and ginger to the skillet.
- Blend well until the mixture is smooth.
- Add the toasted pecans and stir with a wooden spoon until they are well coated.
- Add the chutney and mix well to combine.
- Place the coated pecans on paper towels on the baking sheet and return to the oven.
- Turn the oven off and let the pecans dry in the oven for about 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, lightly salt, and let cool completely.
- Store in an airtight container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the mixture. If you don't have peanut oil, canola or vegetable oil can be good alternatives. Make sure to stir the pecans periodically while they're toasting to ensure even browning. For a sweet twist, you can substitute maple syrup for brown sugar.
Serving Suggestions
These curried pecans make a fantastic snack on their own or can be used as a topping for salads, adding a delightful crunch. They pair beautifully with Mayfair Dressing, enhancing the overall flavor of your salad. You can also serve them alongside a cheese platter or as a garnish for soups to elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled curried pecans in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks. If you want to keep them longer, consider refrigerating them. To reheat, spread them on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Curried Pecans contains roughly 134 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1248mg per serving (54% of the Daily Value).
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 pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds, though the flavor and texture will slightly differ. Toasting times may vary, so keep an eye on them while they bake to avoid burning.
How can I adjust the spice level in this recipe?
To adjust the spice level, you can reduce the amount of curry powder or use a milder variety. Alternatively, add additional spices like ground cumin or coriander for a different flavor profile without increasing heat.
Can I make these curried pecans ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the curried pecans a few days in advance. Just ensure they are completely cooled before storing. This makes them a convenient snack option for gatherings or parties.
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).