Spicy Roasted Cashew Recipes

The sweet, salty flavor of cashews makes them a favorite snack and ingredient for many people. But one of the great things about the nut is that they’re also a perfect canvas for other flavors. If you like flavors with a bit more of a kick, cashews can be made into a spicy treat as well. All you need to get started is bulk raw cashews and the right spices. Below are some of our favorite recipes for roasted cashews that add a spicy element to the classic snack.

Spicy Masala Roasted Cashews

Roasted cashews are a common ingredient in many Indian dishes, so it only makes sense that they can be elevated by classic Indian flavoring. In fact, the nuts are often used as an easy snack during tea time, which is very important in many areas of India. A home in the region may have some of these spices in the pantry, but they’re also easily accessible throughout the world.

You will need the following:

• Whole raw cashew nuts. We recommend buying bulk raw cashews so you can always have this snack on hand!
• Ghee, a clarified butter that gives cashews an extra layer of richness. If you need a dairy-free option, avocado oil will work.
• Your choice of spices, which can include: cayenne, ground turmeric, ground coriander, ground cumin, ground black pepper, chat masala, and Himalayan salt or black salt. The salt adds an umami-like flavor that can be treated as optional.
• Curry leaves for an extra crunch and earthy flavor.

These cashews can be made in the oven, air fryer, or pan-roasted.

If you plan to roast your own cashews in the oven, toss cashews with ghee, spices to taste, and curry leaves, then spread into a single layer on a lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F, tossing at least once to ensure even baking. If you choose to use an air fryer instead, a lower temperature is recommended.

Sweet and Spicy Cashews

Some people prefer their spice to be mixed with complementary, sweeter flavors. This recipe uses a balanced combination of honey and chili powder to add flavor, as well as a crunchy coating.

To make about 8 servings of 1/3 cup each, you’ll need:

• ¼ cup honey
• 1 teaspoon of ground chili powder or cayenne (to taste)
• 12 ounces of raw cashews
• 2 tablespoons of coconut sugar or unprocessed cane sugar
• 1.5 teaspoons of sea salt

Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine honey and chili powder, microwaving for a few seconds to liquify the honey. Add raw cashews and toss to coat.

Spread the cashews on the baking sheet in a single layer, then roast for 10-15 minutes, being sure to stir at least once. When the nuts look just a little darkened, remove them from the oven.

Stir together sugar and salt while the nuts cool for 5 minutes, then toss in the sugar-salt mixture.

Chili Lime Roasted Cashews

For a brighter flavor, mixing spice with lime can be great. These cashews go well with Mexican dishes or as a snack on their own. The key to the flavor is using fresh limes for this recipe rather than pre-squeeze lime juice.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound bulk raw cashews
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ tablespoon lime zest
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

Place your raw cashews on a lined baking sheet and preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Roast the nuts, plain, for about 7 minutes, being sure not to overcook.

While your cashews roast, mix all other ingredients in a small cup and stir well. When nuts are done, toss with this mixture in a bowl, then return to the baking sheet and toast for 1 more minute. This will dry the mixture.

Smokey Cashews

Some people like a smokey quality as part of their spicy cashews. These recipes can be recreated with a spice mix similar to the following:

• 2 cups cashews
• ½ tablespoon olive oil
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper

With this variety of recipes, you’ll need a lot of bulk raw cashews on hand so you can try them all!

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