Prepare all the ingredients and tools: a large, dry pan (preferably cast iron or steel with a diameter of 26–28 cm), a wooden spoon, a spatula, a large metal or ceramic mixing bowl, a sheet of baking paper or a large tray. Measure out the spices in small bowls so that everything is at hand during caramelization.
Description
Spicy peanuts are an aromatic, crunchy snack that combines the sweetness of caramel, the depth of smoked paprika, and the warming heat of chili. Perfect for a Valentine's evening as an unexpected yet impressive little treat to enjoy with a glass of wine or to share. Roasting the peanuts enhances their flavor, while a brief caramelization of sugar creates a thin, crispy, evenly coating glaze. The finishing touch of garlic and spices gives the snack a spicy-salty character; optional honey adds extra sweetness, and sesame seeds provide an elegant texture and decoration. The dish combines both flavor and visual appeal: the golden, slightly shiny coating, red-brown spice accents, and delicate black sesame seeds make it attractive and appetizing.
Ingredients (10)
- Unsalted roasted peanuts 300 g
- Rapeseed oil 30 g
- Brown sugar 40 g
- 🌿 Przyprawy
- Salt 0.1 szczypt
- Ground chili (hot pepper) 1 łyżeczka
- Smoked paprika (sweet smoked) 1 łyżeczka
- Czosnek granulowany 2.5 łyżeczki
- Ground black pepper 2 szczypty
- ✨ Opcjonalne
- Honey 30 ml
- Sesame (tablespoon for sprinkling) 10 g
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Preparation steps
Preparation
Toasting nuts (optional)
If you are using raw nuts, toast them in a dry skillet for 6–8 minutes over medium heat, shaking the pan or stirring with a spoon frequently, until the nuts are golden and fragrant. For already roasted nuts, you can skip this step or heat them for 2–3 minutes to refresh the flavor.
Caramelizing - preparation
Reduce the heat under the pan to low-medium. Pour in the rapeseed oil (30 g) into the pan and spread it evenly. Add the brown sugar (40 g) and let it dissolve for 30–60 seconds without stirring the entire mixture — the edges of the sugar will start to melt. As the sugar begins to melt, gently stir with a wooden spoon to prevent burning. The sugar should turn into a liquid, amber mixture; do not allow it to darken to a dark brown color.
Caramelizing - combining with nuts
When the sugar is liquid and amber (this usually takes 1–2 minutes from the moment it starts melting), quickly add the roasted peanuts (300 g) to the pan. Immediately stir vigorously with a wooden spoon to ensure the nuts are evenly coated with caramel. Stir for 1–2 minutes; the glaze should cover the nuts with a thin, shiny layer. If the caramel starts to crystallize, keep the heat low and continue stirring.
Seasoning
After evenly coating the nuts with caramel, turn off the heat. Immediately sprinkle the mixture with ground chili (5 g), smoked paprika (5 g), granulated garlic (5 g), black pepper (2 g), and salt (3 g). Stir vigorously for 30–45 seconds to distribute the spices throughout the caramel and nuts.
Cooling
Immediately transfer the hot, caramel-coated nuts to the prepared baking sheet, spreading them evenly in a single layer (use a spatula to separate any clumps). Leave to cool for 15–20 minutes — the caramel will harden and become crunchy.
Additional finishing
When the nuts are cool and hard, if you are using sesame (10 g) - lightly toast it in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes until it starts to smell, and then sprinkle it over the nuts. You can also check the salt level and add a bit of salt if needed.
Serving
Transfer the cooled nuts to a small bowl or a decorative plate. Serve at room temperature. For a Valentine's touch, serve in a small heart-shaped bowl or scatter a few pomegranate seeds nearby (optional) for color contrast.
Cleaning the pan
To remove caramel residue from the pan, fill it with hot water (after cooling) and let it sit for a moment, then wash it with a sponge. It is not recommended to pour cold water onto a hot pan with hot caramel - avoid sudden thermal shock.
Fun Fact
Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) originate from South America; popular forms of roasted, salted, or caramelized peanuts developed in the 19th-20th century as an easy and durable snack for trade and social gatherings.
Best for
Tips
Serve in small bowls (e.g., ceramic or glass), decorated with lightly toasted sesame seeds or small chili flakes for appearance. They pair wonderfully with red wine, IPA beer, or as part of a snack bowl for a romantic dinner. They can be sealed in a decorative jar as a homemade Valentine's gift.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 7–10 days to maintain crispness. If moisture softens the glaze, briefly toast in the oven at 140°C for 4–6 minutes to regain crispness. Do not store in the refrigerator (it may absorb moisture).
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