Air-Fried Salted Cashews: A Quick, Crunchy Treat

Roasted cashews are a delicious snack, but did you know it's easy to make them at home in an air fryer? This cooking method is faster and more efficient than using a conventional oven, and it gives you more control over the ingredients. Plus, you can experiment with different seasonings to find your favourite flavour combinations. Here's a basic recipe for salted cashews made in an air fryer, followed by some seasoning suggestions.

Choosing the right cashews

Type of Cashews

Select raw, unsalted, and unroasted cashews for this recipe. Using already salted or roasted cashews will alter the taste and texture of the final product. Raw cashews are the ideal choice as they will absorb the flavours of the other ingredients and cook evenly in the air fryer.

Quality

When purchasing cashews, look for those that are whole, with no broken pieces. Check the expiration date to ensure you are buying fresh cashews. High-quality cashews will have a creamy colour and a slightly oily texture. Avoid cashews that look dry, shrivelled, or discoloured, as this may indicate that they are old or of inferior quality.

Quantity

This recipe typically calls for 1-2 cups of cashews, so buy accordingly. It's always a good idea to have a few extra cashews on hand in case of breakage or overcooking.

Storage

Proper storage of cashews is crucial to ensure their freshness and prolong their shelf life. Look for cashews stored in sealed containers or bags. Check the packaging for any signs of damage or tampering. Once you get home, transfer the cashews to an airtight container and store them in a cool, dry place. You can also refrigerate or freeze them for extended freshness.

Source

Consider the source of your cashews. Look for reputable sellers or brands that offer high-quality cashews. Read reviews or ask for recommendations if you're buying cashews for the first time from a particular source.

In summary, choosing the right cashews involves selecting raw, whole, and fresh cashews from a reputable source. By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to making delicious salted cashews in your air fryer!

Seasoning and coating the cashews

Firstly, select the right type of cashews. It is recommended to use raw, whole cashews to ensure uniform size and even cooking. Using pre-roasted or salted cashews may result in overcooking or uneven seasoning.

Next, prepare your seasoning mixture. This can be as simple as salt and pepper, or you can experiment with various combinations such as garlic powder, lemon pepper, smoked paprika, ground coriander, ground cumin, or nutritional yeast for a tangy flavour. You can also add an egg white to help the spices adhere better. However, if you prefer a sweeter variety, you can toss the cashews in honey or maple syrup and cinnamon after air frying.

Now, it's time to coat the cashews. Place the desired amount of cashews in a bowl and pour over your chosen oil. You can use olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or any other oil suitable for high-heat cooking. Ensure each nut is thinly coated with oil; this will result in a crunchy exterior. Then, add your chosen seasonings and toss well, ensuring an even coating on all the cashews.

A crucial step to remember is to not overcrowd the cashews. Spread them out in a single layer on an air fryer tray or basket, leaving space around them for the hot air to circulate and achieve uniform roasting.

Finally, preheat your air fryer to 330°F (or 350°F according to some sources) and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket every few minutes to prevent burning and promote even browning. Keep a close eye on them, especially towards the end, as cashews can go from perfectly roasted to burnt very quickly.

Air fryer settings and timings

The air fryer is a fantastic way to cook cashews, and it's so simple! The first step is to preheat your air fryer to ensure your cashews cook evenly from the moment they go into the basket. The ideal temperature is 330 degrees Fahrenheit, but this can vary slightly depending on the model of your air fryer, so check the manufacturer's instructions.

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to add the cashews. It's important to spread them out in a single layer, with space around each nut, so that the hot air can circulate and roast them evenly. Overcrowding the basket will lead to uneven cooking, so it's best to cook in batches if you're making a large quantity.

The cooking time will vary depending on your desired level of doneness, but generally, you'll want to air fry the cashews for 5-7 minutes. It's beneficial to shake the basket or stir the cashews every couple of minutes to promote even browning and prevent burning. Keep a close eye on them, especially during the final minutes, as cashews can go from perfectly roasted to burnt very quickly.

Once the cashews have reached a golden brown color and have a nutty aroma, they're ready to be removed from the air fryer. Allow them to cool to room temperature before serving or storing in an airtight container.

If you're adding seasonings, it's usually best to do so after cooking. The residual heat will help the seasonings stick without the risk of them burning. However, if you do choose to season before air frying, add a teaspoon of oil to the cashews first to help the coating adhere.

With these simple steps, you'll be enjoying delicious, healthy, and crunchy salted cashews in no time!

Cooling and storing the cashews

Once you've cooked your cashews in the air fryer, it's important to let them cool completely before serving or storing them. This is because the nuts will continue to cook a little in the bowl, and they will also release residual heat, which can cause condensation and make them lose their crispness.

After your cashews have cooled to room temperature, you can serve them or store them in an airtight container. If you're storing them, it's best to keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Properly stored, your cashews should remain fresh and crunchy for up to two weeks.

If you want to freeze your cashews for long-term storage, first ensure they are completely cool, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. This will prevent them from sticking together in clumps. After they are individually frozen, you can transfer them to a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible, and store them in the freezer for up to six months.

If your stored cashews lose their crunch, you can refresh them by preheating your air fryer to 300°F (150°C) and spreading the cashews in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 2-3 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, and then let them cool for a few minutes before consuming.

Serving suggestions

Salted cashews are a versatile snack and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Salads: Sprinkle your air-fried salted cashews on a variety of salads to add a crunchy texture and extra flavour. They go especially well with a broccoli cranberry salad.
• Snacking: Enjoy your air-fried salted cashews on their own as a tasty and nutritious snack.
• Curry: Use ground cashews to thicken curries and enhance their flavour. They work well in a chicken kofta curry.
• Trail mix: Make your own trail mix by mixing air-fried salted cashews with dried fruits, other roasted nuts, and dark chocolate chunks.
• Cereals: Add a crunch to your morning cereal or oatmeal by sprinkling some cashews on top. You can also swap the sliced almonds for cashew nuts in mango overnight oats.
• Yogurt: Top your Greek yogurt with sliced bananas, pineapple or mango, and some air-fried salted cashews, and drizzle with honey for a mid-morning snack.
• Baking: Include air-fried salted cashews in various baked goods, such as brownies, muffins, and coffee cakes.
• Stuffing: Add roasted cashews to your holiday stuffing or dressing for extra flavour and texture.
• Ice cream toppings: Sprinkle air-fried salted cashews on top of ice cream, especially with tropical flavours.
• Appetizers: Serve air-fried salted cashews as a tasty and healthy appetizer or starter for your next dinner party or gathering.
• Sides: Use air-fried salted cashews as a side dish to accompany your main course. They can be a great way to add some extra protein and healthy fats to your meal.
• Gifts: Package your air-fried salted cashews in a nice jar or container and give them as a homemade gift to friends or family.

Feel free to experiment and get creative with your serving suggestions! Air-fried salted cashews are a versatile snack that can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Frequently asked questions