When butter is left simmer slowly to turn golden brown, it develops a rich, nutty flavor. Toss almonds together in this delicious butter with maple syrup, fragrant fresh rosemary, lemon zest and some lively chilies and you’ve got the most addictive, delicious almonds you’ve ever tasted.
The simplicity of this recipe coupled with how incredibly good it is, is ridiculous. Literally you throw everything together in a bowl, dump it on a baking sheet and roast until the almonds are sticky and perfect. As they cool, they will harden and go crunchy. And you already know how good nuts are for you so you’re also getting the added health benefits.
Serve the almonds on their own with cocktails or serve them as I like to do – with jumbo stuffed olives. The sweetness from the almonds and the salty brininess from the olives is almost a heady combination, especially served with some bubbles.
Once upon a time, in one of my past lives – this one back in Australia, I’d spend days planning and cooking for a dinner party, social gathering, anything that involved inviting people into my home to cook for them. With age comes some wisdom (I’m happy to announce) and over the years I’ve learnt that simple, unfussy food is the way to go. And makes for a much happier host.
With a few simple ingredients you can have a fuss-free appetizer done in minutes, it’s ridiculously easy. And it won’t break the bank or the healthy eating regime at all. So enjoy! Especially for Father’s Day this weekend. Until next time xo.
A PINTEREST PIC FOR YOU TO SHARE WITH YOUR FOLLOWERS
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
- 2 tablespoons finely grated lemon zest
- 1 to 2 teaspoons crushed red chili peppers
- 1/2 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed black pepper
- 3 cups natural almonds (these have skins still on)
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°).
- Melt butter in a medium-large saucepan over medium heat. Heat butter for 2 to 3 minutes or until it turns a golden brown color. Watch it, you don’t want it to burn.
- Add the remaining ingredients; stir until almonds are well coated in the butter mixture. Dump the almonds onto the baking sheet. Spread out into a fairly even layer. Roast for about 15 minutes or until almonds are browned (brown-er, they were already brown) & glazed. Let cool on pan. Break into pieces when cool & store in sealed containers. Makes 3 cups.
- There are few things that pair as well with a glass of wine, a beer or cocktails than nuts. Especially when they’re seasoned perfectly with just the right amount of salty- pepperyness & coated in nutty, browned butter; lemon zest; maple syrup & fresh rosemary.
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