Spicy Cilantro and Mint Baguette Bites
Elevate your appetizer game with these Spicy Cilantro and Mint Baguette Bites, a vibrant blend of fresh herbs and zesty flavors. Originating as the $400 winner in the 'Looks-Like-You-Fussed' category of BH&G magazine in November 2006, these delightful canapés combine the refreshing essence of cilantro and mint, the heat of jalapeño, and creamy texture of peanuts, all served atop perfectly toasted baguette slices. Perfect for any gathering, they are sure to impress your guests and spark lively conversations!
N/A
Servings
110
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cilantro
2 cups (lightly packed, fresh)
Fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup (fresh)
Fresh jalapeño pepper
1 (seeded and chopped)
Lime juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Sugar
1 teaspoon (granulated)
Grated fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon (fresh)
Salted peanuts
1/4 cup (chopped)
Water
1-2 tablespoons (as needed)
Baguette
1 (cut into 20 slices (1/4 inch thick))
Chopped cucumber
3/4 cup (fresh)
Cherry tomatoes
5 (quartered)
Mint sprig
1 (optional for garnish)
Instructions
1
1. Preheat your broiler and set an oven rack about 5 inches from the heat source.
2
2. In a small bowl, lightly brush both sides of the baguette slices with olive oil. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
3
3. Broil the baguette slices for 1 to 2 minutes until they are lightly browned, then carefully flip them and broil for another 1 to 2 minutes on the other side. Watch closely to avoid burning.
4
4. Once toasted, transfer the baguette slices to a wire rack to cool completely.
5
5. In a food processor, combine the cilantro, mint leaves, chopped jalapeño, lime juice, sugar, and grated ginger. Cover and process the mixture until it is finely blended but still slightly chunky.
6
6. Add the salted peanuts to the food processor, then cover and pulse until the peanuts are fully incorporated into the herb mixture.
7
7. Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, processing until the mixture reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
8
8. Spread a generous layer of the cilantro-mint mixture onto one side of each toasted baguette slice.
9
9. Top the spread with chopped cucumber, a few pieces of quartered cherry tomatoes, and a sprig of mint if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors!
Nutrition Information
5.5g
Fat
13.5g
Carbs
1.75g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Spicy Cilantro and Mint Baguette Bites?
They are a vibrant appetizer featuring a spread of fresh cilantro, mint, and jalapeño on toasted baguette slices, topped with cucumber and cherry tomatoes.
Did this recipe win any awards?
Yes, it was a $400 winner in the 'Looks-Like-You-Fussed' category of Better Homes & Gardens magazine in November 2006.
How many calories are in a serving?
Each serving contains 110 calories.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this is a vegetarian recipe featuring fresh herbs, nuts, and vegetables.
How much fat is in these baguette bites?
There are 5.5 grams of fat per serving.
What is the carbohydrate content?
Each serving contains 13.5 grams of carbohydrates.
How much protein is provided per serving?
The recipe provides 1.75 grams of protein per serving.
How much cilantro is needed for the recipe?
You will need 2 cups of lightly packed fresh cilantro.
What type of nuts are used in the spread?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of chopped salted peanuts.
How do I prepare the jalapeño?
The jalapeño should be seeded and chopped before being added to the food processor.
What is the recommended thickness for the baguette slices?
The baguette should be cut into 20 slices, each approximately 1/4 inch thick.
How do I toast the baguette slices?
Preheat the broiler, brush the slices with olive oil, and broil for 1 to 2 minutes per side until lightly browned.
How far should the oven rack be from the heat when broiling?
The oven rack should be set about 5 inches from the heat source.
What gives the spread its zesty flavor?
The zestiness comes from a combination of 1 tablespoon of fresh lime juice and 1/2 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger.
Is there any sugar in the spread?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar is added to the herb mixture.
How do I ensure the spread is the right consistency?
Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, while processing until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.
What fresh vegetables are used as toppings?
The bites are topped with 3/4 cup of chopped cucumber and 5 quartered cherry tomatoes.
Can I use dry mint for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves for the best flavor and texture.
How should I cool the toasted baguette slices?
Transfer the slices to a wire rack to cool completely before adding the spread.
What should the texture of the herb mixture be before adding peanuts?
It should be finely blended but still slightly chunky.
How many cherry tomatoes are required?
The recipe uses 5 cherry tomatoes, which are then quartered for topping.
Is any salt added to the recipe?
No extra salt is mentioned, as the recipe uses salted peanuts for seasoning.
Can I garnish this dish?
Yes, you can add an optional sprig of mint on top of each baguette bite.
How many slices does one baguette typically produce for this recipe?
One baguette is typically cut into 20 slices.
When should these baguette bites be served?
They should be served immediately after assembly to enjoy the burst of flavors.
What is the main equipment needed for the spread?
A food processor is needed to blend the herbs, spices, and peanuts.
Is this recipe considered spicy?
Yes, it includes a fresh jalapeño, providing a zesty heat.
What category of food does this belong to?
It is categorized as an appetizer, canapé, or finger food.
How much ginger is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of fresh grated ginger.
Is the jalapeño processed until smooth?
Initially, the jalapeño and herbs are processed until finely blended but chunky, then smoothed out with water and peanuts.