Each year, the parcel would arrive. Dollar-store containers brimming with date pinwheel cookies, pretzels dipped in red and green, and, most importantly, what we affectionately referred to as “Dad’s Nuts.”
My partner’s father crafted candied (but not too sweet) pecans that were cooked slowly and gently, allowing the sugar to form a transparent shellac around them. They were also delightfully salty. Regardless of the tin’s size, those always vanished first, and each time we craved some, we’d chime in, “Could you hand over Dad’s nuts?” Silly puns. No one laughs, which somehow enhances the experience. (They wonderfully complement apple cider Old-Fashioneds, too.)
I’m not overly traditional. But I genuinely cherish little gestures, like the communal passing of tins among family members. Some years, I’ll repurpose the tins and give them to friends filled with cheese sablés, grapefruit rinds, or leek scones. Though the tins may be inexpensive, it’s about the principle. It’s the joy of recycling. Over time, the tins accumulate scratches and remnants of old Scotch tape. They serve merely as containers. What matters is the love within. And that can be uncomplicated, too.
Then, the inevitable happens. My father-in-law transitions to the next life. You can be sure I brought up “Dad’s Nuts” in that eulogy! To a room full of tearful family.
I had to keep these nuts alive. I inquired about the recipe, and what emerged was a sparse document featuring a suspiciously minimal amount of salt and a surprising plot twist. At the top of the document, the recipe title: Grandma Miller’s Pecans.
So, all this time, they were genuinely Grandma’s Nuts.
Dad’s Nuts
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (a half stick), melted
¼ cup lite corn syrup (or maple syrup)
1 tsp salt (or 2 tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne or 1-2 teaspoons red pepper flakes (the fat of the nuts can handle it)
1 lb. pecans or whatever excites you
Flaky salt for topping
Optional add-ins: 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary. Black pepper. Bloomed ½ teaspoon of saffron. Edible glitter.
Preheat your oven to 250. Yes, 250! We’re going low and slow today. Combine melted butter with the syrup, salt, and spices in a large bowl. Add the pecans and mix thoroughly with a spatula.
Spread the flavorful nuts on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake for an hour, stirring every 15 minutes. The nuts will darken and release a delightful aroma as the sugar hardens. It might take more than an hour because ovens are quirky, so keep an eye on them every 10 minutes to prevent burning. Sprinkle flaky salt at the last minute or right after removing from the oven. They’ll become crisp as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a bit sticky at first.
Package them in recycled tins, if you wish.
This serves as a wonderful reminder that it’s also the ideal season to prepare a martini and re-watch The Thin Man.
P.S. Three starters to serve at a dinner gathering, along with eight food writers sharing their favorite holiday cookies.
**Present Nuts to Your Guests: A Considerate and Healthy Offering**
When hosting guests, the finer details often make the most significant impact. From the environment of your home to the refreshments you provide, each decision reflects your hospitality. One classic and universally loved offering is a bowl of nuts. Regardless of whether you’re hosting a laid-back get-together, an elegant dinner, or a festive event, presenting nuts to your guests is a kind and adaptive gesture that merges health benefits, cultural importance, and culinary charm.
### The Tradition of Serving Nuts
The act of serving nuts to visitors has profound cultural and historical significance. In numerous traditions across the globe, nuts represent abundance, prosperity, and goodwill. For instance, in Mediterranean cultures, almonds are frequently presented as a mark of hospitality. In Middle Eastern customs, pistachios and walnuts are staples at social gatherings, often enjoyed with dried fruits and tea. During the holiday season in Western cultures, bowls filled with assorted nuts are a familiar sight, evoking feelings of warmth and unity.
Nuts are not only a tasty snack but also convey care and consideration. By providing them to your guests, you’re offering a treat that is both enjoyable and meaningful.
### The Health Benefits of Nuts
One of the most convincing motives for serving nuts is their remarkable nutritional content. Nuts are rich in essential nutrients, such as healthy fats, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Here’s a brief summary of the health advantages of some popular nuts:
– **Almonds**: Packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, almonds promote heart health and enhance skin care.
– **Walnuts**: Elevated in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts bolster brain function and help reduce inflammation.
– **Cashews**: A great source of iron, zinc, and magnesium, cashews support robust bones and a healthy immune system.
– **Pistachios**: Low in calories yet high in protein, pistachios are superb for weight management and heart health.
– **Hazelnuts**: Loaded with antioxidants and healthy fats, hazelnuts contribute to cardiovascular wellness.
– **Pecans**: Full of antioxidants, pecans help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health.
By serving nuts, you’re not merely providing a snack—you’re offering a nutrient-rich choice that aligns with contemporary preferences for healthier eating.
### Versatility and Ease of Preparation
One of the greatest aspects of presenting nuts is their versatility. They can be showcased in various formats to fit the occasion:
– **Simple and Classic**: A bowl of mixed nuts is an effortless choice that appeals to nearly everyone. Opt for a blend of salted, unsalted, or lightly roasted nuts to cater to different preferences.
– **Flavored Nuts**: Enhance your presentation with spiced or flavored nuts. Selections like honey-roasted almonds, chili-lime cashews, or cinnamon-sugar pecans add a gourmet flair.
– **Nut Platters**: Combine nuts with dried fruits, cheeses, and crackers to create a stylish platter. This option is ideal for wine evenings or formal gatherings.
– **Homemade Nut Mixes**: Add a personal touch by combining nuts with seeds, dried fruits, and even chocolate chips for a custom trail mix.
Nuts also necessitate minimal preparation, making them a handy choice for busy hosts. Simply place them in a decorative bowl, and you’re set to impress your guests.
### Catering to Dietary Preferences
In today’s climate, dietary choices and restrictions are more prevalent than ever. Nuts are a flexible snack that suits a wide array of diets, including vegetarian, vegan, keto, and gluten-free options. However, one must remain mindful of any potential nut allergies. If you’re uncertain about your guests’ dietary requirements, consider providing a nut-free alternative alongside your nut selection.
### Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Nuts are not just beneficial for your health but also for the planet. Many nuts have a lower environmental footprint compared to animal-based snacks. By serving nuts, you’re making an eco-conscious choice that aligns with sustainable hosting practices.
### A Gesture of Warmth and Generosity
Ultimately, presenting nuts to your guests transcends being a mere snack—it’s a gesture of kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness. It reflects that you’ve considered their comfort and enjoyment, fostering a welcoming environment that ensures they feel appreciated.
### Conclusion
The next time you organize a gathering, consider incorporating a bowl of nuts into your spread. This straightforward yet impactful gesture intertwines tradition, health advantages, and culinary appeal, making it an ideal addition to any event. Whether you opt for almonds, walnuts, cashews, or a combination of all, your guests are certain to value the thoughtfulness behind this enduring offering. So go ahead—unlock the possibilities and let the unassuming nut enhance your hosting experience!
