Before we dive into the mouthwatering recipe for buttertoasted hazelnuts, let’s talk about pairings. These toasted beauties go wonderfully with a variety of dishes. From salads to desserts, their versatility shines through. Imagine sprinkling them over your favorite salad for that satisfying crunch.
Or how about using them to topple your morning yogurt? The nutty flavor is a perfect match for fresh fruits. Moreover, they shine in baked goods like brownies or sprinkle them on top of a delicious cake. You could even toss them into some pasta for an unexpected twist.
Now, let’s embark on this culinary journey together.
What is Buttertoasted Hazelnuts Recipe?
Buttertoasted hazelnuts are simply hazelnuts that have been toasted in butter until they achieve a golden color and incredible flavor. The process enhances their natural oils, making them even richer and crunchier. You might find it surprising how easy it is to bring this delicious treat to the table.
The key is in the toasting and the balance of flavors. By using butter, we add a rich creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy texture of the nuts.
What is the Flavor Profile of This Dish?
The flavor profile is a delightful mix of nuttiness, warmth, and a hint of sweetness. The butter lends a creamy richness, while the toasting process brings out the hazelnuts’ natural oils. When you bite into one, you experience a satisfying crunch followed by a slightly sweet, buttery goodness. Add a sprinkle of salt, and you have a balanced flavor burst in your mouth. For an added twist, spicing it up with cinnamon offers a warm undertone that perfectly contrasts the sweet nuttiness.
Why You’ll Love This?
Simplicity: The ingredients are easy to find, and the process is straightforward.
Versatility: These nuts can be used in salads, snacks, or desserts.
Flavor: The combination of toasty, buttery, and slightly sweet creates an irresistible bite.
Nutrition: Hazelnuts provide healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
Make-Ahead: You can prepare them ahead of time and store them for later use.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (276g) raw hazelnuts, skins intact: Fresh, high-quality hazelnuts are crucial.
- 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt: This enhances the natural nutty flavor.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: This adds a warm, subtle spice that complements hazelnuts.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: It grants that rich flavor and assists in the toasting process.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to toast the hazelnuts, ensuring they cook evenly and develop that exquisite flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking, making clean-up a breeze later.
Step 3: Toast the Hazelnuts
Spread the raw hazelnuts evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes. This is where the magic begins. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. You want a lovely golden color and a fragrant nutty smell wafting through your kitchen.
Step 4: Cool and Skin (If Desired)
Once toasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you don’t fancy the skins, now’s the time to rub them in a kitchen towel to loosen their skins.
Step 5: Melt the Butter
In a medium skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Watch it closely. You want just enough heat to melt without browning it.
Step 6: Add Hazelnuts and Salt
Once the butter is melted, add the toasted hazelnuts to the skillet. Sprinkle in the fine sea salt and ground cinnamon. Toss gently until the nuts are coated evenly with the buttery mixture.
Step 7: Continue to Toast
Continue cooking them in the skillet for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will further deepen the flavor and add a slight crunch.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Remove the skillet from heat, transfer the hazelnuts to a bowl, and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. These should last for about two weeks.
Tips & Tricks
Use fresh hazelnuts: The fresher the nuts, the better the flavor.
Experiment with spices: Try adding smoked paprika or nutmeg for a different kick.
Opt for ghee: For a dairy-free option, swap unsalted butter with ghee.
Don’t skip the salt: A little salt goes a long way in amplifying flavor.
Keep a close eye while toasting: Nuts can quickly move from perfectly toasted to burnt. Stay vigilant!
How Can You Store This Buttertoasted Hazelnuts Recipe?
Storing these lovely nuts is simple. After they have cooled completely, place them in an airtight container. You can keep them at room temperature for about two weeks. If you want to extend their shelf life, pop them in the refrigerator for up to a month. Just make sure they’re well-sealed to avoid moisture.
Alternative Choices for Ingredients
If you find yourself short on some ingredients, here are a few alternatives you can use:
- Unsalted Butter: If you’re out of butter, consider using coconut oil or olive oil. Both will add a unique flavor while providing the necessary fat to toast the nuts.
- Raw Hazelnuts: Can’t find hazelnuts? Almonds or pecans are great substitutes that also deliver a rich taste when toasted.
- Ground Cinnamon: If you don’t have cinnamon, you can use nutmeg or cardamom for a different spice kick.
Conclusion
Buttertoasted hazelnuts represent just how straightforward and rewarding cooking can be. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you can create an ingredient that transforms your dishes. From sweet treats to savory salads, these toasted nuts are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Whether enjoying them warm from the skillet or tossing them into your weekly meal prep, they are a game changer. So, get those hazelnuts, and let’s start turning your kitchen into a beacon of delightful snacks! Happy cooking!
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Buttertoasted Hazelnuts Recipe – Simple Easy Meals
Every kitchen has its star ingredients. Mine happens to be hazelnuts. When roasted and tossed with a bit of butter, they bring warmth and a toasted nuttiness that transforms any dish. This buttertoasted hazelnuts recipe is simple yet delivers a punch of flavor.
I remember the first time I stumbled upon a jar of these nuggets of joy at a fancy cafe. I could hardly contain my excitement as I dove into a bowl of salad, topped with these toasted morsels. It was transformative. I knew I had to recreate this at home.
In this article, we will explore the world of buttertoasted hazelnuts. From understanding their flavor profile to diving into preparation steps, we’ve got it all. Let’s start with the basics.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
-
Start off by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature to toast the hazelnuts, ensuring they cook evenly and develop that exquisite flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
-
Take a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking, making clean-up a breeze later.
Step 3: Toast the Hazelnuts
-
Spread the raw hazelnuts evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them into the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes. This is where the magic begins. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. You want a lovely golden color and a fragrant nutty smell wafting through your kitchen.
Step 4: Cool and Skin (If Desired)
-
Once toasted, remove the hazelnuts from the oven and let them cool slightly. If you don’t fancy the skins, now’s the time to rub them in a kitchen towel to loosen their skins.
Step 5: Melt the Butter
-
In a medium skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Watch it closely. You want just enough heat to melt without browning it.
Step 6: Add Hazelnuts and Salt
-
Once the butter is melted, add the toasted hazelnuts to the skillet. Sprinkle in the fine sea salt and ground cinnamon. Toss gently until the nuts are coated evenly with the buttery mixture.
Step 7: Continue to Toast
-
Continue cooking them in the skillet for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will further deepen the flavor and add a slight crunch.
Step 8: Cool and Store
-
Remove the skillet from heat, transfer the hazelnuts to a bowl, and let them cool completely. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. These should last for about two weeks.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 230kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22.5g35%
- Saturated Fat 2.7g14%
- Cholesterol 4mg2%
- Sodium 74mg4%
- Total Carbohydrate 6g2%
- Dietary Fiber 3g12%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 5g10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use fresh hazelnuts: The fresher the nuts, the better the flavor.
- Experiment with spices: Try adding smoked paprika or nutmeg for a different kick.
- Opt for ghee: For a dairy-free option, swap unsalted butter with ghee.
- Don’t skip the salt: A little salt goes a long way in amplifying flavor.
- Keep a close eye while toasting: Nuts can quickly move from perfectly toasted to burnt. Stay vigilant!
