Cajun Cashews Recipe

Cook Time: 22 minutes

Spicy Roasted Cashews

This recipe will yield 4 servings of spicy, savory roasted cashews with the perfect balance of heat and flavor. Ideal as a snack or party treat!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon chile garlic sauce (such as Sriracha)
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more to taste)
• 2 cups whole cashews
• 1 tablespoon coarse salt (or to taste)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and set it aside.

Step 2: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter and olive oil over low heat. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Sriracha, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Add the cashews to the saucepan and toss them to coat evenly with the spicy seasoning mix.

Step 4: Transfer the cashews onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer to ensure they bake evenly.

Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, shaking the pan occasionally to prevent the cashews from burning. Keep an eye on them as they bake to achieve a golden brown color.

Step 6: Once the cashews are golden brown, remove them from the oven and pour them back into the saucepan. Sprinkle the coarse salt over the nuts and toss until they are well coated.

Step 7: Return the seasoned cashews to the baking sheet to cool. Once cooled, transfer them to an airtight for storage.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

Calories	Fat	Carbs	Protein
483	41g	24g	11g

Additional Nutrition Information

• Total Fat: 41g (53% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 10g (52% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 15mg (5% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 2103mg (91% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrate: 24g (9% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 2g (8% Daily Value)
• Total Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 11g (22% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 43mg (3% Daily Value)
• Iron: 5mg (26% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 449mg (10% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Cajun Cashews

Cajun Cashews are a modern twist on traditional Southern flavors, inspired by the robust, spicy cuisine of Louisiana. Cajun cooking itself originates from the French-speaking Acadian settlers who migrated to the region in the 18th century, combining French culinary techniques with local ingredients and bold spices. Over time, nuts like cashews became a popular snack medium due to their rich flavor and ability to carry strong seasonings, making them perfect for this Cajun-style preparation.

Regional Characteristics

This snack is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of the American South, particularly Louisiana. The use of spices such as cayenne, paprika, and cumin reflects the characteristic heat and smokiness of Cajun cuisine. While the South is known for fried and hearty dishes, Cajun Cashews highlight the regions ability to turn simple ingredients into intensely flavorful snacks. In New Orleans, for instance, you might find these nuts served at bars, music venues, and local festivals, showcasing their versatility as both a casual and gourmet treat.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

Unlike general spiced or roasted nuts, Cajun Cashews are distinguished by their layered seasoning and precise balance of heat and savoriness. While other nut snacks might rely on salt or sugar alone, this recipe incorporates Worcestershire sauce, chile garlic sauce, and a combination of dry spices that create a complex flavor profile. Compared to Bombay-style masala nuts or honey-roasted variants, Cajun Cashews are less sweet and more intensely smoky and spicy, providing a signature Southern punch.

Typical Serving Contexts

Cajun Cashews are commonly enjoyed as appetizers, party snacks, or bar accompaniments. They are frequently offered in casual gatherings, music festivals, and New Orleans-style eateries. Their portability and long shelf life make them ideal for picnics or as a crunchy side to cocktails. Chefs may also include them in gourmet charcuterie boards, pairing their bold flavors with cheeses, cured meats, and local beers.

Interesting Facts

• Cashews are not native to Louisiana, but their neutral, buttery texture makes them perfect for absorbing Cajun spices.
• Traditionally, Cajun cuisine emphasizes using every part of the food available; nuts were adapted as a snack due to their availability and shelf stability.
• The combination of butter and oil in the recipe helps the spices adhere better while roasting, a technique borrowed from professional nut roasters.
• Cajun Cashews can be customized in heat level, making them popular among both mild snack lovers and spice enthusiasts.
• They are often made in small batches at home, preserving the freshness and crispiness that store-bought versions sometimes lack.

FAQ about Cajun Cashews Recipe

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