Spanish Style Fried Almonds Recipe

Ever had one of those days where you just need a snack that feels fancy yet secretly takes no effort? Let’s talk about these smoky roasted almonds—crispy, savory joy in every bite!

I adore making snacks that are straightforward and yet so bursting with flavor. Spanish Style Fried Almonds are a personal favorite.

These guys are really not so much fried as they are sautéed—quite healthily, I might add. I use raw almonds and a scant amount of a truly wonderful extra virgin olive oil from an artisan purveyor in Spain.

The oil drapes the almonds beautifully to get a nice even toast and deep flavor before tossing in my favorite seasonings.

Spanish Style Fried Almonds Recipe Ingredients

• Raw Almonds: Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein.

  Promote heart health.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Rich in antioxidants.

  Adds smooth, fruity flavor.

• Sea Salt: Enhances natural nut flavors.

  Provides essential minerals.

• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, spicy kick.

  Rich in vitamins A and E.

• Garlic Powder: Instills savory depth.

  Contains beneficial sulfur compounds.

Spanish Style Fried Almonds Recipe Ingredient Quantities

• 1 cup raw almonds
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

How to Make this Spanish Style Fried Almonds Recipe

1. A large skillet should be preheated over medium heat, and then the extra virgin olive oil can be added.

2. When the oil is hot, add the unroasted almonds to the skillet.

3. Continuously stir the almonds for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to turn golden brown.

4. Turn the heat down to medium-low so things don’t burn while you keep stirring.

5. Sprinkle the sea salt over the almonds and stir to evenly coat them.

6. Incorporate the smoked paprika and mix thoroughly, making certain all the almonds are uniformly coated.

7. Dust the almonds with garlic powder and keep stirring them with the oil for 1-2 minutes.

8. When the almonds are coated evenly and their smell is reaching you, take the skillet off the heat.

9. Move the almonds onto a plate that has been lined with paper towels. The towels will absorb any oil that is in excess.

10. Before serving, allow the almonds to cool slightly; you can enjoy them either warm or at room temperature.

Spanish Style Fried Almonds Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Stove
3. Measuring cup
4. Measuring spoons
5. Spatula or wooden spoon
6. Plate
7. Paper towels

FAQ

• Q: How do I store the fried almonds?A: Maintain freshness for up to 2 weeks by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature.
• Q: Can I use roasted almonds instead of raw?A: The freshest taste and best flavor absorption come from using raw almonds and roasting them yourself.
• Q: Is there a substitute for smoked paprika?A: You can use sweet or regular paprika, although it won’t lend the dish the same smoky undertone. For that, you can add a dash of smoked salt or liquid smoke.
• Q: Can I make this recipe with other nuts?A: Yes, you can employ the same technique with other nuts like cashews or hazelnuts, fine-tuning the cooking duration as necessary according to their size.
• Q: How can I make this recipe spicier?A: To impart more heat to the recipe, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the smoked paprika that you use to an amount that suits your taste.
• Q: Can I use another type of oil?Using your favorite is fine, as you don’t have to use a neutral oil, such as sunflower or avocado oil, when making the olive oil cake recommended here. In fact, you could even use extra virgin olive oil, the flavored oil that I favor, when making this cake.

Spanish Style Fried Almonds Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Unroasted almonds: Can be replaced with unroasted cashews or unroasted hazelnuts for a different nut flavor.
Olive oil, extra virgin: Use grapeseed oil or avocado oil in its place; both have a high smoke point and are suitable for sautéing.
Kosher salt or Himalayan pink salt can serve as substitutes for sea salt.
Paprika, as well as chipotle powder or regular smoked paprika, can be used to produce a different kind of smokiness.
Garlic powder: Use onion powder or a small, minced, fresh garlic clove instead.

Pro Tips

1. Toast Evenly Ensure you spread the almonds in a single layer in the skillet. This will allow them to toast evenly and prevents some from burning while others remain undercooked.

2. Monitor Heat If the almonds are browning too quickly, reduce the heat. Keeping a medium to medium-low heat will prevent scorching and help the spices adhere better.

3. Fresh Spices Use fresh smoked paprika and garlic powder for the best flavor. Spices lose potency over time, so check to make sure they are still fragrant.

4. Flavor Enhancement For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of lemon zest in with the garlic powder to elevate the flavor profile.

5. Storage Advice Once cooled completely, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. This keeps them fresh and crunchy.