Toasted nuts
It doesn't seem possible that something so simple as toasting nuts could make a big difference in flavor, but it really does. As a blind test, I put two bowls of nuts at either end of the counter. People ate from each bowl. After awhile I asked if they could tell the difference. Absolutely. The toasted nuts were the clear favorite. The best part is you can toast them ahead of time and throw them in the freezer to use when needed. I've used them as snacks when I have unexpected guests. They are outstanding when tossed into a salad.
| Recipe makes | Active time | Total time |
|---|---|---|
| Special equipment needed |
|---|
| Baking sheet or microwavable safe dish |
| Ingredients |
|---|
| Nuts of your choice |
| Instructions |
|---|
| • Oven method |
| • Preheat oven to 300º. |
| • Spread the nuts on an ungreased baking sheet. The nuts should be in one layer not overlapping. |
| • Bake for 5 minutes. Toss and turn the nuts so they will roast evenly. |
| • Repeat this process 3 more times until you start to smell the nuts, and they brown slightly. The process should take about 20 minutes. |
| • Cool the nuts on the sheet. Store when cool. |
| • Microwave method |
| • Spread the nuts in a microwave-safe dish, preferably glass. The nuts should be in one layer not overlapping. |
| • Microwave for 1 minute. Toss the nuts so they will roast evenly. |
| • Repeat this process 3 - 8 more times until you start to smell the nuts. This process should take no more than 10 minutes. |
| • Cool the nuts in the dish. Store when cool. |
| Variations |
|---|
| • Salt the nuts when toasted or sprinkle with spices. |
| Storage |
|---|
| • Store in a sealed container or bag for 1 year. |
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