Indian Savory Spice Nuts
These Indian Savory Spice Nuts are finger-licking good and will be a hit at any party! The combination of garam masala, cumin, cardamom, and chili powder packs so many flavors into every bite. Garam masala is a traditional Indian seasoning made up of many different spices, like peppercorns, cloves, cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom. This deliciously spicy mixture can be found at your local grocery store.
Yields 3 cups (720 ml)
1 cup (240 ml) plain almonds
1 cup (240 ml) plain cashews
1 cup (240 ml) plain pecans
1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
11⁄2 teaspoons (10 ml) chili powder
1 teaspoon (5 ml) cumin
1⁄2 teaspoon (10 ml) ground cardamom
1⁄2 teaspoon (10 ml) garam masala
Sea salt and pepper, to taste
- Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
- Add nuts to a large mixing bowl and slowly mix with olive oil so all are evenly coated. Place the nuts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake in the oven for about 45 minutes.
- Mix all spices together in large bowl. Once nuts are done baking, transfer to bowl and mix with spices while warm.
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Indian Savory Spice Nuts are almonds, cashews, and pecans slow-roasted until crisp, then tossed in garam masala, cumin, cardamom, and chili powder. The warm, oily nuts grab the spice blend on every surface, so each handful is crunchy, aromatic, and gently fiery. Set out a bowl at your next gathering and watch it disappear.
Pro Tips
- Roast low and slow at 250°F — high heat scorches the delicate pecans before the cashews are crisp through.
- Toss the nuts with the spices while they are still warm and oily, so the garam masala and chili powder cling rather than settle at the bottom of the bowl.
- Cool the nuts completely on the tray before storing; sealed up warm, they turn soft and lose their crunch.
- Almonds, cashews, and pecans give three textures, but the spice blend flatters walnuts, peanuts, and macadamias just as well.
- Keep them in an airtight jar at room temperature for up to two weeks. If they soften, five minutes in a low oven brings the crunch back.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store spiced nuts?
Once completely cool, store them in an airtight jar at room temperature away from sunlight. They stay crisp for about two weeks, and a short re-roast revives any that go soft.
Can I make these nuts less spicy?
Yes — halve the chili powder and keep the garam masala and cardamom for aromatic warmth without the fire. They will still taste distinctly Indian.
Are Indian Savory Spice Nuts paleo?
Nuts, olive oil, and pure spices are all paleo-friendly. Just check the label on your garam masala, since some blends include fillers or sugar.
Can I use a different nut mix?
Absolutely — use whatever you have on hand, from a single variety to a mixed handful. Keep the total to about 3 cups so the spice ratio stays right.
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