Savory Sweet Smoked Almonds
Delight your taste buds with these Savory Sweet Smoked Almonds, a perfect blend of salty, sweet, and smoky flavors that will elevate any gathering. These crunchy treats make an irresistible snack for parties, afternoon nibbles, or as a topping for salads. If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), enjoy them the next day over a mixed greens salad adorned with ripe pear slices and delicately shaved Manchego cheese, creating a gourmet experience right at home. This recipe, inspired by traditional Spanish flavors, showcases Marcona almonds, renowned for their rich, buttery texture. Treat your guests to a sophisticated snack that is simple to prepare but delivers on taste!
12
Servings
133
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Light Brown Sugar
1/4 cup (packed)
Ground Cumin
2 teaspoons
Paprika (Hot or Smoked)
1 teaspoon
Dried Thyme
1 teaspoon
Kosher Sea Salt
1 teaspoon
Cayenne Pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Egg White
1 large
Water
1 tablespoon
Marcona Almonds or Raw Whole Almonds
1 lb (approximately 3 cups)
Cooking Spray
(for greasing baking sheet)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by coating it with cooking spray.
2
In a large bowl, thoroughly whisk together the light brown sugar, ground cumin, paprika, dried thyme, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
3
In a separate medium bowl, whisk the egg white and water together until the mixture is foamy and slightly increased in volume.
4
Add the Marcona or raw whole almonds into the egg mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated. Use a sieve to drain off any excess egg white.
5
Transfer the almonds to the bowl containing the spice mixture. Gently stir until all almonds are evenly coated with the spice blend.
6
Spread the seasoned almonds evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, stir the almonds, lower the oven temperature to 200°F (95°C), and continue baking until the almonds are dry and golden, approximately an additional 30 minutes.
8
Once done, let the almonds cool on the baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes before serving. Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Nutrition Information
10.4g
Fat
7.5g
Carbs
3.8g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Sweet Smoked Almonds?
They are a crunchy snack featuring a perfect blend of salty, sweet, and smoky flavors, inspired by traditional Spanish cuisine.
What kind of almonds are best for this recipe?
Marcona almonds are recommended for their rich, buttery texture, though raw whole almonds can also be used.
Can I use regular almonds instead of Marcona almonds?
Yes, raw whole almonds are a suitable substitute if Marcona almonds are not available.
How do I prepare the baking sheet?
Prepare a large rimmed baking sheet by coating it thoroughly with cooking spray.
What spices are used in the seasoning mix?
The mixture includes light brown sugar, ground cumin, paprika, dried thyme, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper.
How do I get the spices to stick to the almonds?
The almonds are first coated in a foamy mixture of egg white and water, which acts as a binder for the spices.
Do I need to whisk the egg white?
Yes, whisk the egg white and water together until the mixture is foamy and has slightly increased in volume.
How long should I bake the almonds at 275°F?
Bake the seasoned almonds in the preheated oven at 275°F for the first 30 minutes.
Why do I lower the oven temperature to 200°F?
The temperature is lowered to 200°F for the final 30 minutes to ensure the almonds dry out and turn golden without burning.
How long do the almonds bake in total?
The total baking time is approximately 60 minutes, split into two 30-minute intervals at different temperatures.
How do I know when the almonds are finished?
The almonds are done when they appear dry and have achieved a golden color.
How long should the almonds cool before serving?
Let the almonds cool on the baking sheet for 15 to 20 minutes before serving or storing.
How should I store leftover almonds?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain their crunch.
How long do these almonds stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for up to 1 week.
Can I use these almonds as a salad topping?
Yes, they are excellent over mixed greens with pear slices and delicately shaved Manchego cheese.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed in this recipe are gluten-free.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 133 calories per serving.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 3.8 grams of protein.
Are these almonds very spicy?
They have a mild heat from the cayenne and paprika, balanced by the sweetness of the brown sugar.
Can I use hot paprika instead of smoked?
Yes, the recipe allows for either hot or smoked paprika depending on your flavor preference.
What kind of salt is recommended?
Kosher sea salt is recommended for this recipe.
Can I make these almonds ahead of time?
Yes, they can be made up to a week in advance if stored in an airtight container.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 10.4 grams of fat.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.
What kitchen equipment do I need?
You will need a large rimmed baking sheet, a large bowl, a medium bowl, a whisk, and a sieve.
What is the purpose of the sieve in the instructions?
The sieve is used to drain off any excess egg white mixture so the almonds are not overly wet before being spiced.
How much sugar is in the recipe?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of packed light brown sugar for the entire batch.
Can I use these for a party?
Yes, they are described as a sophisticated and irresistible snack perfect for parties and gatherings.
What cheese pairs well with these almonds?
Manchego cheese is specifically recommended as a gourmet pairing for these Spanish-inspired almonds.
What are the total carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 7.5 grams of carbohydrates.