This vintage "Herbed Nuts" recipe, handwritten by Norma in August 1983, is a classic American party snack reflecting a time when savory and spiced nut mixes were popular for entertaining. With bold spices like cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and cinnamon, balanced with Worcestershire sauce and a dash of Tabasco, the nuts are roasted until perfectly crisp. Recipes like these became especially favored during the 1950s–80s in the U.S., often shared among homemakers through recipe cards and holiday gatherings. This version is a versatile, flavorful treat ideal for sharing or gifting.
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper
- dash Tabasco sauce
- 1 lb mixed nuts
Instructions
Step 1: Melt Butter
- In a heavy skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Mix Seasonings
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, salt, ground cinnamon, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and a dash of Tabasco sauce.
Step 3: Coat the Nuts
- Add the mixed nuts to the skillet and stir until the nuts are evenly coated with the butter and spice mixture.
Step 4: Bake
- Spread the coated nuts in a single layer on a 15 ½ x 10 ½ x 1-inch baking pan.
- Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20–25 minutes, stirring once or twice during baking, until the nuts are brown and crisp.
Tips
- Nut options: Use a mix of almonds, pecans, cashews, and peanuts for varied texture.
- Make it sweet-spicy: Add 1 tbsp of brown sugar for a sweet-savory twist.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Vegan version: Substitute butter with plant-based margarine.
Nutrition
Calories: 365kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 10gFat: 29gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 18gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 1mgSodium: 173mgPotassium: 404mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 41IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 61mgIron: 3mg
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