Piri-Piri Cashew Bites
Introduction to Piri-Piri Cashew Bites
Piri-Piri Cashew Bites are a delightful snack that packs a punch of flavor. Originating from the fusion of African and Portuguese cuisines, Piri-Piri, also known as Peri-Peri, is a spicy sauce traditionally made from African bird's eye chili. The sauce was introduced to Portugal through the spice trade routes. This fiery blend of chili peppers with lemon, garlic, herbs, and spices has become a favorite around the world, lending its name and spicy tang to countless dishes.
These bites combine the heat of Piri-Piri sauce with the creamy richness of cashews, offering a crunchy and satisfying snack. Perfect for parties, these bites can also be packed as a quick energy boost during the day.
Ingredients
- Cashews - 2 cups
- Piri-Piri sauce - 3 tablespoons
- Olive oil - 1 tablespoon
- Salt - 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic powder - 1 teaspoon
- Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
- Paprika - 1 teaspoon
- Honey - 1 tablespoon
- Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Cashews
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure the perfect roasting temperature for the cashews. Lay the cashews out on a baking sheet in a single layer to allow even roasting. A thorough roast ensures the nuts are flavorful and crunchy.
Step 2: Creating the Piri-Piri Marinade
In a small mixing bowl, combine Piri-Piri sauce, olive oil, salt, garlic powder, lemon juice, paprika, honey, and dried oregano. Whisk them together until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. This spicy-sweet marinade will coat the cashews, infusing them with taste throughout.
Cooking Process
Step 3: Coating the Cashews
Toss the pre-roasted cashews in the prepared marinade, ensuring each nut is thoroughly coated. Spread the coated cashews back onto the baking sheet, again in a single layer.
Step 4: Roasting
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to promote even cooking. Keep a close watch to avoid burning, aiming for a golden brown color with the spicy mix adhering firmly to the cashews.
Use a cooking timer to track the cooking time precisely. This precision is crucial to achieve the perfect texture without any burnt aftertaste.
Step 5: Cooling
Remove the cashews from the oven and let them cool down on the baking sheet. The cooling process helps solidify the marinade coating, providing a flavorful crispiness in each bite.
How to Enjoy Piri-Piri Cashew Bites
These cashew bites are best enjoyed once completely cooled. They make an excellent snack for gatherings or a delicious topping for salads to add a flavorful crunch. Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness for up to two weeks.
Serve them with a refreshing drink to balance the heat, perhaps a cool mint lemonade or an iced tea. Whether you're serving these at a party or enjoying them solo, Piri-Piri Cashew Bites will undoubtedly bring some spice to your snack routine!