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Sugar and Spice Cashews

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Snack
Servings 2 cups

Equipment

  • 1 Dutch oven or deep, heavy pan
  • 1 baking sheet with rack

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups raw cashews
  • 1/2 cup confectioner's sugar
  • vegetable oil for frying
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • zest of 1 small lime

Instructions
 

  • Blanch the cashews in boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain and toss immediately with the confectioners sugar - mixing well to coat the nuts evenly.
  • Pour the oil into a Dutch oven or deep, heavy pan to a depth of 1 1/2 inches and heat oil to 375 degrees fahrenheit. Carefully add the cashews in batches and fry for 1 or 2 minutes, until crisp and golden brown.
  • Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cashews to a rack (a rack that sits on a baking sheet) Do not use paper towels - they will stick. Allow the oil to come back to temperature between batches.
  • Sprinkle the nuts with salt, cayenne pepper and lime zest while still hot. Taste one of the cashews and if you like them spicier, add another 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Toss lightly to cover nuts with the salt, cayenne pepper and lime zest. Serve immediately.