Go Nuts This Holiday Season!

Before you hack into your ham, tear-up the turkey, or rip into the rib roast, how about a spicy yet sweet snack to hold the troops over until Christmas dinner time? This effortlessly easy recipe hails from my favorite Food Network scientist and chef, Alton Brown and has been an absolute hit every time I prepare it. These delectable little pecans can be served along side your appetizers at any cocktail or dinner party or could be strategically placed around the house in pretty little bowls to keep every one's hunger monster at bay. Alton suggests these piquant pecans would make perfect gifts for anyone on your list- place them in a festive tin box or holiday glass jar first as presentation is key!

Spiced Nuts


Ingredients


1 pound pecan halves, fresh


1/2 stick butter, unsalted


1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper


1/2 teaspoon dried orange peel


1/2 teaspoon cinnamon


1/2 teaspoon cumin


1/2 teaspoon salt


3 tablespoons dark brown sugar


3 tablespoons light brown sugar


2 tablespoons water


Directions


In a large skillet, lightly toast the pecan halves over medium for 4 to 5 minutes, just until they begin to brown. Add butter and allow it to melt. After the butter has completely melted, add cayenne, orange peel, cinnamon, cumin, salt, dark brown sugar, light brown sugar, and lastly, water. Stir until well mixed and water has cooked off. Pour spiced nuts onto a lined cookie sheet and spread them out as much as possible to dry. Cool completely and box up for "tasteful" gifts or drop them in granny's crystal nut dish for pre-christmas dinner cocktail hour. However you decide to serve these nutty nibbles, there are sure to please all palettes!


Eat, Drink and Be Merry this holiday season and be sure to stay tuned, dahlin's!