Port-Glazed Walnuts With Stilton
Sweet and savory port-glazed walnuts with a hint of black pepper and bay leaf, perfect as an elegant appetizer or cheese pairing for sophisticated gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread walnut halves on parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes or until lightly browned.
- In a saucepan, combine Ruby Port, sugar, freshly ground black pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Cook over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Discard bay leaf.
- Add toasted walnuts to the saucepan, stirring evenly to coat.
- Using a slotted spoon, drain the coated walnuts very well.
- Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 12 minutes or until mostly dry.
- Serve with Stilton cheese and wafer crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the port mixture. If Ruby Port is not available, tawny port or even a sweet red wine can be used as substitutes. Be sure not to overbake the walnuts, as they can become bitter. Keep an eye on them during the second baking stage to achieve perfect crunchiness.
Serving Suggestions
These port-glazed walnuts are perfect for entertaining and pair beautifully with Stilton cheese and wafer crackers. Consider serving them alongside Southern-Style Collards for a delightful contrast of flavors. They also make an excellent addition to a cheese board or as a topping for salads, adding both texture and sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover walnuts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their crunchiness, avoid refrigeration. If they lose some texture, you can reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes to restore their crispness before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Port-Glazed Walnuts With Stilton contains roughly 395 calories, with 11g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (137% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (107% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 30g 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 walnuts?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Pecans will provide a similar richness, while almonds will add a nice crunch. Adjust the baking time as needed, as different nuts may brown at different rates.
How do I know when the walnuts are perfectly toasted?
The walnuts are done when they are golden brown and fragrant. Keep a close watch during baking, as they can quickly go from perfect to burnt. You may want to taste one to ensure the flavor is to your liking before removing them from the oven.
Can I make these walnuts in advance?
Absolutely! These walnuts can be made ahead of time, stored in an airtight container, and will maintain their flavor for up to a week. They make a great snack or appetizer that can be prepared in advance 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).