Aisha’s Chili Pecans (Cajun) is a delicious and spicy snack that’s perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their nuts. Here’s all the information you requested:
What is it: Aisha’s Chili Pecans are roasted pecan nuts coated in a flavorful Cajun spice mix, giving them a spicy and savory kick.
History: While there isn’t a specific historical account of Aisha’s Chili Pecans, Cajun cuisine, which is known for its bold and spicy flavors, likely inspired this recipe. Cajun cuisine originates from the French-speaking Acadian people who settled in Louisiana, USA, and it incorporates a mix of French, African, Spanish, and Native American influences.
Components:
- Pecan nuts (usually whole)
- Cajun spice mix (typically consisting of ingredients like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper)
- Optional additions like butter or egg white for binding the spice mix to the pecans
Steps to Prepare Aisha’s Chili Pecans (Cajun):
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Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the pecans: In a mixing bowl, add the pecan nuts. You can use whole pecans or halves, depending on your preference.
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Coat with Cajun spice mix: Sprinkle the Cajun spice mix over the pecans, ensuring they are evenly coated. You can adjust the amount of spice mix to suit your heat tolerance.
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Optional binding: If you want the spice mix to stick better to the pecans, you can add a small amount of melted butter or whisked egg white to the pecans and toss them until they are well coated.
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Spread on a baking sheet: Arrange the spiced pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This helps ensure even roasting.
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Roast in the oven: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the pecans for about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to check them periodically and give them a gentle stir to prevent burning.
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Cool and serve: Once the pecans are roasted to your desired level of crispiness and the spice mix has adhered nicely, remove them from the oven and let them cool completely before serving.
Preparation Time: The total time needed to prepare Aisha’s Chili Pecans (Cajun) is approximately 30 minutes, including preparation and roasting time. Keep in mind that this may vary slightly depending on your oven and personal preferences for the level of roasting.
Enjoy your homemade Cajun-spiced pecans, and don’t forget to store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh!
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aisha’s Chili Pecans (Cajun):
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per 1 oz/28 grams serving):
- Calories: 200-220 kcal
- Total Fat: 20-22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 2 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Cholesterol: 0 milligrams
- Sodium: 150-200 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 4-6 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
- Sugars: 1-2 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
- Vitamin A: 4-6% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 0%
- Calcium: 2%
- Iron: 4-6%
Health Information:
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Good Source of Healthy Fats: Pecans are rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which is known for its heart-healthy benefits.
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Protein: Pecans provide a moderate amount of protein, which is essential for muscle health and overall body function.
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Dietary Fiber: These pecans contain dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel fuller for longer.
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Vitamins and Minerals: While Aisha’s Chili Pecans may not be a significant source of vitamins and minerals, they do provide small amounts of vitamins A and E, along with minerals like magnesium and phosphorus.
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Spices: The Cajun spice mix adds flavor but can also be quite spicy due to ingredients like cayenne pepper. Spices can have various health benefits, including potential metabolism-boosting effects and antioxidant properties.
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Portion Control: It’s important to practice portion control when enjoying spiced pecans, as they can be calorie-dense. Eating them in moderation as a snack is a healthier choice.
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Sodium Consideration: Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if you have dietary restrictions related to salt intake.
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Homemade vs. Store-Bought: Making these pecans at home allows you to control the ingredients, including the amount of salt and spices. Store-bought versions may vary in terms of added fats and sodium.
Remember that these nutrition facts can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation method used, so it’s always a good idea to check product labels or perform a more precise analysis if you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions.