Asian Nut Mix with Kaffir Lime Dust
I am always on the lookout for unusual appetizers and this one brings back memories of travels to Vietnam, where kaffir lime and all varieties of nuts -- especially peanuts -- appear freely and frequently. Kaffir lime trees grow easily, so if you live in a temperate climate, add one to your garden or patio. Fresh, frozen, and dried leaves can be found at Asian food shops. Fresh leaves, of course, are the most intensely flavored.
1 cup (4 ounces; 125 g) salted peanuts
1 cup (4 ounces; 125 g) cashews
Olive oil spray
12 kaffir lime leaves, chopped, then ground to a fine powder (2 teaspoons)
1 cup (2 ounces; 60 g) Japanese rice crackers
Equipment: A baking sheet.
- Arrange a rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
- Combine the nuts on a baking sheet. Spray lightly with oil and toss to coat.
- Place the baking sheet in the oven and lightly toast the nuts, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer the nuts to a bowl, and while still warm, add the kaffir lime powder and rice crackers and toss to blend. Taste for seasoning. Serve.
3 cups (310 g)