It’s not too early to start thinking about Christmas, y’all.
I know! We haven’t even had Halloween yet, but Christmas comes a week sooner (or so it seems) after Thanksgiving this year. And you know how busyness seems to jump off the calendar as soon as November 1 hits!
These Smoked Chipotle Spiced Almonds are one of my go-to make ahead gifts to distribute for the holidays. Almonds are fairly inexpensive as nuts go and there a just a few other ingredients needed to make them. Once made, they can be frozen or sealed in jars or bags ready to be delivered.
This batch is headed to a judges’ meeting being held in the next few days. They’re always a big hit wherever I take them, and I just know you’ll like them as well. They are delicious served on their own, but they also make a super addition to a cheese or charcuterie board. Optionally, you can also sprinkle them with a little cane or demerara sugar prior to baking for a sweet and spicy version. I think those are especially good with sharp cheeses.
I think your friends and neighbors will really like getting a little something homemade from your kitchen. I’m not a crafty person, but I can cook! Need some more ideas for Gifts From the Kitchen?
Gary’s Famous Pumpkin Bread
One of our favorites is Gary’s Famous Pumpkin Bread.
Here are a few that do not require baking!
Savory Bean Soup Mix
Gifts From the Kitchen: Calico Bean Soup Mix
Add a little bag topper to your soup mix bag.
Gifts From the Kitchen: Pasta Fagioli Soup Mix
Notes
Superfine sugar: pulse 1 cup granulated sugar in a food processor until very fine. Store in an airtight container and use as needed.
*Alternatively, toast these in the oven (330 degrees F convection) for approximately 10-12 minutes. This is my preferred method since they seem to toast better in my opinion.
Ingredients
- 1 Tablespoon smoked chipotle pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked sweet Spanish paprika (or hot if you prefer)
- 1 teaspoon superfine sugar (see note)
- 2-3 teaspoons sea salt
- 1-2 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh rosemary,optional
- 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 3 1/3 cups blanched whole almonds
Instructions
- Combine the smoked chipotle, cumin, paprika, sugar, sea salt and rosemary pin a large bowl; set aside.
- In a large cast iron skillet, cook the almonds with the olive oil over medium heat for 10 minutes, stirring frequently until almonds are golden. *
- Toss almonds with spice mixture, combining well.
- Cool to room temperature before storing or serving.
