Candied Rosemary Walnuts Recipe
Introduction
Candied rosemary walnuts are a delightful snack that combines sweet, savory, and aromatic flavors. Perfect as a party treat or a crunchy salad topping, these nuts are easy to make and full of vibrant rosemary goodness.
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil, for the baking sheet (optional)
- 150g caster sugar
- 200g walnut halves
- 1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Lightly oil a baking sheet or line it with baking parchment to prepare for the candied walnuts.
- Step 2: Place the caster sugar in a heavy-based frying pan over medium-low heat. Cook without stirring, tilting the pan occasionally, until the sugar is dissolved and lightly golden.
- Step 3: Add the walnut halves, chopped rosemary, sea salt flakes, and black pepper to the caramelized sugar. Stir briefly to coat the nuts evenly.
- Step 4: Carefully pour the hot mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use two lightly oiled teaspoons to separate the nuts if you want individual pieces; be careful as the mixture will be very hot.
- Step 5: Allow the mixture to cool completely. For a rustic look, break the candied walnuts into chunks using a rolling pin once cooled.
- Step 6: Store the candied walnuts in small containers or bags for later use.
Tips & Variations
- Try substituting rosemary with thyme or sage for a different herbal note.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a subtle spicy kick.
- If you prefer a sweeter touch, drizzle a little honey over the walnuts after cooling.
Storage
Keep the candied rosemary walnuts in an airtight container in a dry, cool place for up to three weeks. To freshen them, gently warm in a low oven before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, pecans or almonds work well and offer a similar texture and flavor when candied with rosemary.
What if my sugar burns while cooking?
If the sugar turns too dark or smells burnt, discard it and start again using a lower heat to avoid burning.
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Candied Rosemary Walnuts Recipe
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: Approximately 200g of candied walnuts 1x
Description
Deliciously sweet and fragrant candied rosemary walnuts that combine the warm, earthy flavor of fresh rosemary with the rich crunch of toasted walnuts, perfect as a snack or a gourmet addition to salads and cheese boards.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil, for the baking sheet (optional)
- 150g caster sugar
- 200g walnut halves
- 1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the baking sheet: Lightly oil a baking sheet or line it with baking parchment to prevent sticking and allow for easy cooling of the candied walnuts.
- Dissolve the sugar: Tip the caster sugar into a heavy-based frying pan set over medium-low heat. Cook the sugar without stirring until it dissolves completely and turns a light golden color, tilting the pan gently to ensure even caramelization.
- Add walnuts and seasonings: Stir in the walnut halves, finely chopped rosemary, sea salt flakes, and freshly ground black pepper briefly, coating the walnuts evenly with the caramelized sugar mixture.
- Transfer to baking sheet: Carefully pour the hot walnut mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use two lightly oiled teaspoons to separate individual nuts if you want them separated; otherwise, leave as a cluster. Be cautious as the mixture will be very hot.
- Cool and store: Let the candied walnuts cool completely on the baking sheet. For a rustic look, once cooled, break them into chunks using a rolling pin. Pack into airtight containers or bags. Store in a dry, cool place for up to three weeks.
Notes
- Use a heavy-based frying pan for even heat distribution to avoid burning the sugar.
- Do not stir the sugar while it is melting to prevent crystallization; tilting the pan is enough to encourage even melting.
- If you prefer all nuts separated, lightly oil the teaspoons to prevent sticking when separating the hot mixture.
- Store candied walnuts in airtight containers to keep them fresh and crunchy.
- Adjust the quantity of rosemary and seasoning according to taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Snack
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: candied walnuts, rosemary walnuts, sweet nuts, caramelized walnuts, snack recipe, roasted nuts
