Welcome to the world of Asian cuisine, where ingredients are combined in perfect harmony to create exquisite flavors. One such ingredient, often overlooked, is the humble walnut. In this recipe, we'll discover the delightful taste of Chinese Walnuts. Sweet, spicy, and salty, they make a fantastic snack, salad topping, or accompaniment to a cheese board.
The walnuts are stir-fried in the traditional Chinese way, giving them a wonderfully toasted taste and texture that's bound to get you hooked. It's a quick, easy, and super delicious recipe you simply can't ignore!
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the delightful blend of flavors it brings. It takes the earthy, slightly bitter flavor of walnuts and elevates it with a dash of sweet and savory spices. The result is an addictive snack that's not only tasty but healthy too. Walnuts are packed with heart-healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids. So, this recipe works beautifully if you're looking for something satisfyingly crunchy, delightfully flavorful, and also nutritionally beneficial.
Moreover, this recipe doesn't require a professional cook's expertise or a long list of ingredients. All you need are walnuts, a few common kitchen ingredients, and a handful of spices. It's quick, with the total time including preparation and cooking being less than half an hour. This Chinese Walnuts recipe is a wonderful way to explore Chinese cuisine in a new light. It works perfectly as a standalone snack for movie nights or gatherings, as a garnish for salads and soups, or even as a unique gift during the holiday season. Don't miss the chance to add this recipe to your culinary repertoire!
Ingredients
Chinese Walnuts-These walnuts have a mild, sweet flavor and are lighter than their English counterparts. If you can't find Chinese walnuts, regular walnuts work just fine.
White Sugar- This will be used to create a caramelized coating for the walnuts. For a healthier option, you can substitute with coconut sugar.
Water-This is needed to dissolve the sugar and create a syrup.
Honey- Honey adds a natural sweetness and a depth of flavor. Maple syrup can be a good substitute if honey is not available.
Salt- This will enhance the flavor of the walnuts. You can adjust the quantity according to your preference.
Tips
- Be sure to stir the walnuts constantly while they're being caramelized to prevent them from burning.
- Use a non-stick pan for easy cleanup after caramelizing the walnuts.
- To ensure the walnuts are evenly coated with the syrup, toss them well.
- Allow the walnuts to cool completely before storing. They become crunchier as they cool.
- Store the candied walnuts in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
How to Serve
These candied Chinese walnuts make a delicious and versatile snack that can be served in a variety of ways. They can be enjoyed straight from the container for a quick, sweet treat, or used as a topping to elevate many dishes.
- Salad Topping: Sprinkle them over a salad for an added crunch and a hint of sweetness.
- Dessert Garnish: Use these caramelized walnuts as a topping for ice cream or other desserts. They add a delightful crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
- With Cheese: Pair them with cheese for a sophisticated appetizer or snack. The sweetness of the walnuts balances the saltiness of the cheese perfectly.
Similar Recipes
Chinese Walnuts
Ingredients
- 2 cups Chinese walnuts
- 1 cup white sugar
- ½ cup water
- 2 tablespoons honey
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the walnuts and toast them until they're lightly browned and aromatic.
- In a separate saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Heat until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the honey and salt to the sugar syrup, stirring well.
- Add the toasted walnuts to the syrup and toss to coat them evenly.
- Continue to cook the walnuts in the syrup until they become caramelized.
- Allow the walnuts to cool before serving or storing.
Nutrition
Notes
- Be sure to stir the walnuts constantly while they're being caramelized to prevent them from burning.
- Use a non-stick pan for easy cleanup after caramelizing the walnuts.
- To ensure the walnuts are evenly coated with the syrup, toss them well.
- Allow the walnuts to cool completely before storing. They become crunchier as they cool.
- Store the candied walnuts in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
How long will fried walnuts keep