One of my (many) fond food memories from a visit to New York are the street carts with candied nuts. So I decided to give it a go at home here in Down Under in Australia – and I have to say, it’s pretty darn close to the real thing! It’s effortless – 4 ingredients, 15 minutes of leisurely stirring – and stores for a week in an airtight container. Great idea for a homemade gift in pretty jars or tied into sacks!
I’ve made this with almonds and macadamias too. I think this recipe works best with smooth nuts – nuts like walnuts and pecans will probably be harder to evenly coat as clumps will form in the nooks and crannies.
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Candied Peanuts
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw peanuts
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup water
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- In a large skillet or fry pan over medium heat, combine all ingredients other than the salt.
- Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the liquid is evaporated and sugar crystals form. The peanuts should look like they are sandy and dry.
- Lower the heat slightly and keep stirring. As you stir, small amounts of syrup will form - stir well to coat the peanuts evenly.
- Keep stirring until the peanuts turn golden brown, being careful not to burn the nuts - around 3 to 5 minutes.
- Spread onto a baking tray to cool, and sprinkle with salt.
- When cool, break into clumps.
Recipe Notes:
If you like this recipe, you may also enjoy my Perfect Salted Caramel Popcorn recipe. Store bought simply doesn’t compare – the popcorn is crispy, lightly coated with caramel.
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