Spiced Candied Walnuts

By KDHarmon

Ingredients

• Canola oil
• 4 C walnut halves
• 1 C confectioner's sugar, sifted
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• pinch salt
• 1/4 tsp fresh ground black pepper

Preparation

Step 1

In large, heavy bottomed skillet, heat about 1-inch of oil to 350 degrees.

Bring large pot of water to boil. Add walnuts and blanch for 30 seconds. Drain and trnasfer nuts to medium bowl. While nuts are still hot and slightly wet, add confectioner's sugar, toss to coat. Stir and toss utnil all the sugar has melted into the nuts. If bits of unmelted sugar remain on the nuts, they will not fry properly.

Stir nuts again before frying. Using a large slotted spoon, transfer a few nuts to the oi8l, allowing the foam to subside before adding another spoonful. Fry in small batches until nuts are medium brown, about 45 seconds, being careful not to overcook. Scatter on an unlined baking sheet to cool slightly.

In small bowl, stir together cayenne, cinnamon, pinch of salt and pepper.

While nuts are still warm, transfer them to bowl and sprinkle evenly with about half of the spice mix. Toss well to distribute the spices and then taste a nut. Add more spice mix to taste and toss well after each addition.

When cool, pack in airtight jar. Will keep at room temperature for at least 2 weeks.