Garam Masala Spiced Nuts

From the Kitchen Window column

This recipe is adapted from one by Tara Mataraza Desmond, co-author of Almost Meatless (Ten Speed Press 2009). Tara says she loves garam masala because it is warm, deep, savory and unexpected, and a dusting of it can change the taste profile of a dish completely. She uses it here in an unexpected way to make spiced nuts. These are an addictive snack and perfect for potlucks, a hostess gift, or as part of an appetizer platter at a cocktail party.

Makes 3 cups nuts

1 medium egg white

3 tablespoons sugar

1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup roasted, salted cashews

1 cup roasted, salted peanuts

1 cup toasted pecan halves

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

Whisk together the egg white and 1 teaspoon water until a sturdy froth forms. Stir in the sugar, garam masala and nuts. Mix everything together to coat the nuts well.

Spread the nuts on the baking sheet. Transfer to the oven and bake until crispy and golden, stirring occasionally, about 30 minutes.

Remove from the oven, let cool completely, and break apart into pieces to serve.

Copyright 2013 NPR. To see more, visit http://www.npr.org/.

Filed in:

• Recipes