What Makes Tameya Different from Traditional Falafel?

Lighter, fluffier on the inside, and with a crisper outside thanks to a generous coating of sesame seeds, Tameya is an Egyptian twist on the Middle Eastern street food classic.

Whereas Falafel is traditionally made from chickpeas, our nuanced aunties use the humble fava bean in their traditional Egyptian Falafel recipe. The result is an unmistakably flavourful falafel bursting with fresh herbs such as parsley and coriander.

Served in a pillowy-soft wrap of warm pita bread, with a drizzle of tahini sauce, Taameya is synonymous with a warm snack or meal anytime.

Origins of Tameya in Egyptian Cuisine

Tameya, the Egyptian iteration of Falafel, has a long history in the Middle East. However, the term ‘falafel’ is a specific Palestinian slang for the various versions of deep-fried balls or patties made from ground chickpeas, broad beans, or both.

Therefore, peeled split Fava beans (broad beans) became the predominant ingredient of Tamiya, making it distinctive among the other varieties of Egyptian Falafel around the region.

Traditionally, it has been served as one of Egypt’s breakfast staples for hundreds of year. Yet at the same time as a snack or light meal, elsewhere in the Middle East. Using fava beans instead of chickpeas alongside the use of fresh herbs, gives Tameya a unique taste, texture, and its distinctive bright green colour.

Key Differences: Fava Beans vs. Chickpeas

While its chickpea-based counterpart is more densely packed and features a more pronounced, nutty flavour. Tameya is usually lighter, fluffier inside, and has a thin, delicate, crusty exterior.

Chickpea-based Falafel also tends to have a more robust, earthy aroma, whereas fava beans give the dish a bright, herby character. Fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, and dill are typically added to Tameya to enhance flavour and the colour.

The unique flavour and texture of Tameya comes from the fact that the patties are spiced with cumin, coriander, and garlic. Frying seals the outside for a crispy shell and leaves the outer layer of beans lightly stewed on the inside, soft and moist.

The Secret to Authentic Tamiya: Fava Beans and Herbs

Who would have thought that dried fava beans could be the start of something so incredibly delicious and wholesome?

The secret here is using green and golden onions, which really enhances the flavour. However, be careful, as too much onion can make the mixture more moist than it needs to be, making the shaping of the Tamiya harder.

How to make Tameya: Authentic Egyptian Falafel

Ingredients:

• 450 grams of dried fava beans
• 80 grams of green onions
• One small yellow onion, chopped
• Six cloves garlic, minced
• 30 grams fresh parsley, chopped
• 30 grams fresh cilantro, chopped
• 20 grams fresh dill, chopped
• Two teaspoons of ground coriander
• Two teaspoons of ground cumin
• One teaspoon of baking soda, powder
• Three teaspoon Salt
• One teaspoon of cayenne pepper to taste
• Two tablespoons flour (or chickpea flour for a gluten-free option if the mixture is too wet)
• 1 litre Vegetable oil for frying
• 1/4 cup Sesame for coating

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tamiya

Step 1: Soak and Prepare Fava Beans 

First, soak the fava beans overnight (8 hours) in a large bowl, pouring in hot water 3 inches above the bean surface. The beans will absorb water, getting softer and, therefore, easier to process. The following day, drain the water, rinse the beans, and drain all liquid using a sieve.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients 

Put the softened fava beans, parsley, cilantro, dill, yellow and green onion, garlic, and spices into a food processor until the mixture forms a dough. The consistency should allow you to create small oval patties. 

Step 3: Shape and Fry 

Mix the baking powder with one tablespoon of hot water and fold this into the mixture immediately. Form the falafel mixture into small round balls (or Falafel patties) and lightly dust them with sesame seeds.

Cook the patties in a pot of preheated oil (around 350°F) until golden brown on each side. Make sure the oil is hot enough to crisp the Falafel, the way the falafel will not become soaked in the oil too. Make as many falafels as you need and store the rest in a bag in the freezer to fry freshly when necessary.

How to Serve and Enjoy Taameya

Tameya is eaten with Egyptian flatbread, thinly sliced tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of tahini. Add a squeeze of lemon for the fresh, zesty flavour, and you have a hearty breakfast treat. It also makes for a light lunch accompanied by fresh vegetables or pickles. 

Tameya is best with Foul Melades (stewed fava beans), cucumber, and tomato salad. You can also try it with hummus (chickpea dip), as both dishes complement each other.

Traditional Accompaniments: Tahini, Pita, and Vegetables

Eat Tameya in character in a warm pita pocket with fresh vegetables such as finely chopped tomatoes, cucumbers, and onion. A generous tahini sauce and lemon juice drizzle can bring it all together.

Pairing Tameya with Other Egyptian Dishes

Pair Taameya with other traditional dishes, like Koshary or Koshari (a mixture of rice, lentils, and pasta) or Fuul Medames (a slow-cooked fava bean stew); to best complement it’s flavours and create a satisfying hearty meal.

Health Benefits of Eating Tamiya

More than delicious, Tameya is nutritious!

Fava beans carry abundant protein, making them a plant-based powerhouse and a suitably appealing substitution for meat-based proteins. The beans are also a source of fiber.

For a lighter version, bake the Falafel instead of frying it. Brush the patties with oil and bake until crisp, shaving fat without compromising flavour. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chickpeas instead of dried split fava beans? 

While fava beans are a necessary component of authentic Tameya; they produce a texture and flavour that can only be achieved using a chickpea-free base.

2. What’s the best oil for frying Tameya? 

Vegetable, olive, or sunflower oil is best for frying Falafel because they have a high smoke point, making them crispy without burning.

3. Can I freeze Tameya? 

Yes! Assemble them for rolling and braising in the shape you want to eat them, then lay them in a flat layer on the baking sheet and place the whole tray in the freezer. Freeze, then move the patties to a bag once the patties are solid. Fry from frozen. Alternatively, store the mixture flat in a zip lock back and defrost a couple of hours before frying.

For more delicious breakfast recipes, visit my Breakfast section and browse some of my absolute favourite Middle Eastern recipes.

Remember, if you make Tameya at home, leave a comment or review on the page! I’m always here to answer any questions when making this recipe yourself. Your feedback and questions are always welcome.

You can even tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see your creations! It brings me so much joy to see you all re-creating my recipes, and it is a massive motivator for me to create more tasty recipes for you to share with family and friends.

Of course, this is always the best place to keep in touch, and I love hearing from you all!

Love, Nelly

Other Sweet Recipes You’ll Love:

• Sucuk & Eggs
• Persian Dill and Fava Bean Stew
• Batata Mahshi – Egyptian Stuffed Potatoes
• Bechamel Pasta Bake (Macarona Bechamel)
• Spanakopita Dip – Cheesy Spinach Dip
• Turkish Pastry With Cheese and Spinach
• Authentic Turkish Lentil Soup – Mercimek Çorbası
• Adasi – Persian Lentil Soup
• Hummus Loaded With Shirazi Salad
• Kuku Sibzamini – Persian Boiled Potato Patties
• Loaded Hummus with Shawarma Ground Beef
• Simple Dal Tadka with Extra Garlic and Chilli
• Persian Ramadan Lamb and Lentil Shami Kofta

The post Tameya: Authentic Egyptian Falafel appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

A Taste of My Childhood

The Story Behind Mama’s Strawberry Jam Recipe

Growing up, summers were synonymous with strawberry picking. My sister and I would spend hours in the strawberry fields near us, filling our baskets to the brim. We would fill our bellies to the brim too while picking them. The anticipation of the jam-making process was almost as sweet as the strawberries themselves. Though after the process of picking the strawberries the rest is history to us.

My mother would take over and transform those fresh, juicy berries into a delicious, vibrant Strawberry Jam that we would enjoy all year round. In fact, I rarely remember her buying jam from the store. Mama made and still makes jam with all kinds of fruits, some of the other family recipes passed down from my grandmothers include; Sour orange blossoms (Bahar Narenj) and Citrus Peel Jam. This recipe is a homage to those memories and a celebration of simple, homemade goodness.

The Importance of Jam Making

Jam making is an art that goes beyond preserving fruit; it’s about capturing the essence of seasons and the memories associated with them. Using sugar and lemon juice in the right proportions is crucial to prevent crystallization and ensure a smooth, spreadable texture. While pectin is often used to help jam set, it’s not necessary for a good homemade jam. The natural pectin in fruits, especially strawberries, combined with the acidity of lemon juice, usually provides a perfect set without additional pectin. Plus, making strawberry jam without pectin allows for a purer, more intense fruit flavour.

A Refreshing Twist: Strawberry Syrup

One delightful byproduct of making strawberry jam is the syrup that forms during cooking. Before the jam sets completely, you can siphon off some of the liquid to create a refreshing summer drink. Simply mix the strawberry syrup with cold water and a splash of lemon juice, serve over ice, and enjoy a cool, fruity beverage that’s perfect for hot days.

Enjoying Jam as Turkish Iranians

In our Turkish-Iranian household, jam is more than just a spread; it’s a staple of our breakfast table. We usually enjoy it with freshly baked bread like Barbari or Lavash, often picked up by the men in the family from local bakeries early in the morning. A dollop of Mama’s Strawberry Jam on warm bread, paired with clotted cream or butter, is a simple yet luxurious treat that starts the day off right. It’s a tradition that brings our family together and keeps us connected to our cultural roots.

The perfect Strawberry Jam Recipe

How to make strawberry jam

Now I make rather large batches of my Mama’s Strawberry Jam (3-4kg of strawberries) and store it in the fridge for most of the year but if you are new to jam making and/or trying your hand for the first time then a much smaller quantity like the measurements below may suit you best.

To make Mama’s Strawberry Jam, you’ll need:

• 4 cups of fresh strawberries, hulled and mashed
• 4 cups of granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup of lemon juice

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Steps for this Strawberry Jam Recipe

1. Prepare the Strawberries

Start by selecting the freshest, ripest strawberries you can find. Wash them thoroughly and remove the hulls. Now this is where this jam differs from the rest. My mum likes the fruit in her jam to stay as whole as possible instead of it turning out more like marmalade.

2. Cook the Jam

In a large pot, combine the whole strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to mix. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it boil for about 10 minutes, continuing to stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning.

3. To achieve a clear syrup

You will see that after it starts to come to a boil there will be white foam forming on the top. to achieve a clear syrup in your jam, remove as much of the foam as possible.

4. Test for Doneness

This strawberry jam recipe requires you to leave it on low heat to simmer for 2-3 hours until you are happy with the consistency. To test if the jam is ready, place a small plate in the freezer before you start cooking. When you think the jam is done, drop a small amount onto the chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Push the edge with your finger; if it wrinkles, it’s ready. If not, continue boiling for a few more minutes and test again.

5. Strawberry Syrup for a refreshing summer drink

Just before the jam is done and removed off the heat, this is after 2 hours of it simmering on medium to low. If there is still a lot of liquid in the pot then its the perfect time to remove some for a drink. I take a few cups of the liquid only from the pot, strain it through a sieve and save in a glass bottle to use for drinks.

6. Jar the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars using a funnel, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth and screw on the lids. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly. I don’t always have the time to do this and I have never ended up with mouldy jam. I store all my jars in a fridge up to a year.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you do make this Strawberry Jam Recipe, please take a moment to leave a review, comment or or any questions you may have.
Also tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see your work of art! Not only is it my favourite thing to scroll through and see what you are all making. But it also brings me so much happiness to see my hard work is beneficial to you all

This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you.

Love, Nelly

Recipes You Must Try

• APPLE STREUSEL HANDPIE
• CARDAMOM ROSE DATE SUHOOR OATMEAL
• KARKADE – HIBISCUS TEA
• PISTACHIO AND POMEGRANATE TURKISH DELIGHT
• 10 MINUTE CHOCOLATE DATE TRUFFLE

The post Mama’s Strawberry Jam appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

A Taste of delicious flavours

What Are Date Truffles?

Date truffles are a type of sweet treat that are often considered a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate truffles. They are typically made with dates, which are naturally sweet and packed with nutrients like fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Unlike traditional truffles, which are often made with heavy cream and lots of sugar, date truffles use natural sweeteners like dates to achieve their delicious flavor. This makes them a great option for those who want to indulge in a sweet treat without consuming too much sugar or artificial ingredients.

Date truffles are also often mixed with healthy fats like almond flour or coconut oil, which can help to make them more filling and satisfying. Additionally, date truffles can be customized to suit your taste preferences by adding ingredients like chopped nuts or spices. Overall, date truffles are a delicious and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Lets look inside this Healthy Truffle Recipe!

In this recipe for 10 minute chocolate date truffles, I’ve used a variety of nutritious ingredients that can also be called superfoods, to create a healthy and delicious treat. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits and value of each of these ingredients.

Almonds

Almonds are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and protein. They are also rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, which can help to support healthy skin and immune function. Including almonds in this recipe adds a nutty flavor and crunchy texture to the truffles.

Walnuts

Like almonds, walnuts are also a good source of healthy fats and fiber. They are also high in antioxidants, including polyphenols and vitamin E. Walnuts have been shown to improve brain health and reduce the risk of heart disease. In this recipe, walnuts add a rich, earthy flavour and a crunchy texture.

Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are packed with nutrients, including fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. They are also a good source of calcium, magnesium, and iron. Chia seeds are known for their ability to absorb liquid, which makes them a great binding agent in this recipe. They also add a nutty flavor and a slight crunch to the truffles.

Flax Meal

Flax meal is made from ground flax seeds and is a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. It is also rich in lignans, which are compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. In this recipe, flax meal acts as a binder and adds a nutty flavor to the truffles.

Indulgent yet guilt free!

Chocolate Truffles vs. Date Truffles

In addition to being healthier, date truffles also offer a different flavor profile compared to chocolate truffles. Chocolate truffles are typically rich and intense, with a strong chocolate flavor. Date truffles, on the other hand, have a more subtle sweetness and a slightly nutty flavor that comes from the use of nuts and seeds in the recipe. This makes them a great option for those who prefer a milder, more natural sweetness in their desserts.

Another benefit of date truffles is their versatility in terms of ingredients. While traditional chocolate truffles often rely on heavy cream and sugar for their texture and sweetness, date truffles can be made with a variety of natural ingredients. This means that they can be customised to suit different dietary needs and preferences:

Dairy-free: Traditional chocolate truffles often contain heavy cream or butter, making them unsuitable for those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy. This recipe, however, uses peanut butter as a creamy and delicious alternative, making it a great dairy-free option. Additionally, the recipe is free of any other dairy products, making it safe for those with severe dairy allergies.

Gluten-free: Many chocolate truffle recipes call for wheat flour, which contains gluten and can be problematic for those with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. This recipe, on the other hand, uses nuts and seeds as a base, making it naturally gluten-free. Additionally, there are no other gluten-containing ingredients in the recipe, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegan: Finally, this recipe is completely vegan, meaning that it does not contain any animal products or byproducts. Traditional truffle recipes often call for heavy cream or butter, which are both animal-derived products. However, this recipe uses plant-based ingredients, such as dates and peanut butter, to create a creamy and delicious texture without the need for animal products.

Ingredients

• Dates
• Flax meal
• Walnuts
• Chia seeds
• Almonds
• Chocolate

Step by Step for this Easy Truffle Recipe

• Soak the dates in hot water for 30 minutes to soften.
• Drain the dates, keep 1/4 cup of the water, and remove the pips.
• Add the pitted dates, walnuts and almonds to a food processor and process until they form a paste.

• If the mixture is too thick then add 2 tablespoons of water at a time until the mixture is well blended and forms a paste.
• Add the flex meal, chia seeds and salt to the food processor and pulse until well combined.
• It is okay if the mixture is a little wet, the chia seeds will start to soak up the moisture so feel free to set aside for 5 minutes while the chocolate is prepped.
• Melt the chocolate using ban bain-marie method and if too thick add a tablespoon of oil or butter at a time until the chocolate is loose enough to dip the truffles easily.
• Wet your hands, roll the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

• Dip each ball into the melted chocolate and bring them out using a fork.
• Gently place each one on a baking sheet and then place the baking sheet in the freezer for 10 minutes to firm up the truffles.
• Optional but sprinkle truffles with crushed pistachios or desiccated coconut.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you do make this recipe, please take a moment to leave a review, comment or or any questions you may have.
Also tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see your work of art! Not only is it my favourite thing to scroll through and see what you are all making. But it also brings me so much happiness to see my hard work is beneficial to you all

This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you.

Love, Nelly

Recipes You Must Try

• Borani Esfenaj – Persian Spinach Yogurt Dip
• Lazy Smash Burger Wrap
• Adasi – Persian Lentil Soup
• Authentic Turkish Lentil Soup – Mercimek Çorbası
• Authentic Moroccan Harira Soup
• Cardamom Rose Date Suhoor Oatmeal
• Homemade Italian Pizza Dough

The post 10 Minute Chocolate Date Truffle appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

In the Middle East, it feels like dipping oil has been around forever and it’s such a staple in every breakfast table!

Tasty Bread Dipping Oil with a Middle Eastern Twist

What is Zaatar?

Funny story, I don’t think I have ever come across the direct English translation of the word Zaatar or Za’tar! I know it is sometimes referred to as oregano, but in my family, and probably, most of the Middle East, we’ve been brought up knowing Zaatar as.. Zaatar! And having lived in the UK, we still refer to it and will always call it Zaatar!

It is a Middle Eastern herb spice mixture that combines dried oregano, thyme, sumac and toasted sesame seeds with rich and quality extra virgin olive oil. You honestly have to try it to be able to understand just how herby and exotic the flavour is – it’s the perfect mix between nutty and crunchy but also savory. It’s absolutely delicious!

Not only does it fulfill taste buds but it also one of the healthiest mix of spices you didn’t know you needed, containing vitamins A, C, E and K.

What can I do with Zaatar Olive Walnut Bread Dipping Oil?

The explosive mix of this Bread Dipping Oil is a fantastic appetiser and can be served for breakfast, lunch and dinner! There is nothing better than dipping a crunchy, grilled, chunky piece of bread into this full of flavour dipping oil first thing in the morning – it’s indescribable.

Zaatar Olive Walnut Bread Dipping Oil is simply good quality extra virgin olive oil with a combination of delicious spices to make everything taste that little bit better. You can rub the dipping oil on your chicken pieces before roasting them in the oven, or as a topping for your fresh fish or sprinkled on top of any vegetables and potatoes, ready for the oven.

It can be eatan alone as a dip, or made into a sandwich, or the perfect topping on starter dishes like Hummus – very traditional in the Middle East!

Check out my video to get the perfect consistency for your Zaatar Olive Walnut Bread Dipping Oil

There’s so much you can do with this Zaatar Olive Walnut Bread Dipping Oil

Ingredients

• Zaatar
• Dried Mint
• Parsley
• Olive Oil
• Walnuts
• Olives
• Lemon

Step by Step

Start by chopping up the parsley, walnuts and olives very finely and mix together in a dish.

Add the zaatar and dried mint spices.

Top with the lemon juice and olive oil and you’re good to go. When adding oil, bare in mind the consistency of your mix – you want it to be thick enough so you get a good taste of the herb mix but with enough olive oil to soak the herbs.

Serve and enjoy

Frequently Asked Questions

If you do make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you are all making.

And of course feel free to leave any questions, comments, or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you

Must Try Recipes

• Tahini and Pomegranate Brussels Sprouts
• How to Make the Perfect Crispy Roasted Potatoes
• Sweet and Savoury Spiced Nuts And Pretzels
• Simple Homemade Sweet Candied Nuts Recipe
• Easy To Make Homemade Chocolate Bark

The post Zaatar Olive Walnut Bread Dipping Oil appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

Once you start with the first one, you will not be able to stop until the whole bowl is empty, and that’s ok… it is the festive season after all. Not only does it taste amazing, but it is also super easy to make. Let us not forget to mention that its tempting smell will fill the house and will certainly make you go nuts!

Why You Will Love Sweet Candied Nuts Recipe

This mouth-watering Homemade Sweet Candied Nuts is the ideal snack to enjoy when guests are over. Also, it is the perfect addition to your cheese board to give it a fun sweet twist and can be a great topping for ice creams, rice dishes, and even salads.

Other than that, it can be considered as a great option for holiday gifts to your loved ones. What better way is there to express your love and appreciation to friends and family than through these crunchy golden Sweet Candied Nuts!

It is also really time friendly since it can be prepared ahead of time and stored in airtight containers until ready to be served, making it just so convenient!

Sweet Candied Nuts can last anywhere between 1 to 2 weeks if placed in room temperature and up to 2 months, if placed in the freezer. Perfect!

Bake the world a better place

Different Flavours To Candy Nut With

Caramelised nuts: This method requires less than 10 minutes to be prepared and only needs 4 ingredients: any type of nuts that you like, granulated sugar or brown sugar, cinnamon and butter. It tastes great especially when made with cashews, walnuts and pecans.

Honey-Roasted nuts: It tastes somewhere in between salty, sweet and spicy. This explosive taste combo will make your start and not want to stop! Any type of raw and unsalted nut can be used in this recipe and you can play around with the seasonings depending on your own preferences and liking.

Orange Candied Nuts: Mixing orange in with the nuts adds a new amazing taste. This type of candied nuts will astonish your guests with how good it tastes!

Rosemary Roasted Nuts: The ingredients of this recipe are super easy to get and the taste of it will leave you wanting more. Good thing that the steps to prepare it are so simple!

Ingredients

• Pecans
• Walnuts
• Almonds or almond flakes
• Maple Syrup
• Brown Sugar
• Melted butter
• Cinnamon
• Salt flakes
• Nutmeg

How to make Sweet Candied Nuts

First, start by placing a parchment paper on a tray or a baking sheet and add the pecans, walnuts and almonds to it.

Add the maple syrup and melted butter to the nuts and mix well. Then, sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, salt flakes and nutmeg gradually to give it some delicious flavor.

Then, mix all the ingredients well together and flatten them on the parchment paper in a way that they do not over lap each other, in order for all the ingredients to bake equally in the oven.

Place the tray inside the oven and bake until golden, crunchy and glazed.

Serve and enjoy

The delicious mix of all time

Frequently Asked Questions

If you do make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you are all making.

And of course feel free to leave any questions, comments, or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you

Recipes You Must Try:

• Festive Holiday Honey Nut Gift Jar
• The Best Simple Cookie Dough Recipe
• Caramelized Fruit and Cheese Dip
• Homemade Gluten-Free Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars
• Date Baklava Cheesecake

The post Simple Sweet Candied Nuts Recipe appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

Here I used Christmas tree shaped Garlic and Onion pretzels, maybe the festive season took over a little, but you can use any shape or any type of pretzels you like

A delicious mix of Nuts and Pretzels

The Benefits of Nuts

Nuts are known to be healthy and actually essential in a well balanced diet. They are a good source of protein and regularly eating nuts has so many healthy benefits as they contain many substances needed by the body.

Nuts contain fats and we usually get the impression that this is a bad thing but its the opposite! They are mostly healthy unsaturated fats which help to lower bad cholesterol levels.

The best thing about it is that it doesn’t matter which nuts you choose to eat, they each come with their own health benefits. Walnuts for example are known to contain higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, while almonds or macadamia nuts are quite heart healthy.

Just like this recipe, you can mix and match any type of nuts you like!

Why Sweet and Savoury Spiced Nuts And Pretzels is the ideal recipe?

This recipe is so simple, and I am sure you’ll agree when you place at the recipe card below. It’s so quick to put together, very minimal steps and the oven does all the work. Perfect, right!?

What’s better is that you end up with enough Sweet and Savoury Spiced Nuts And Pretzels to serve your friends, family and any guests you have over. There’s plenty to go around

December is known for celebration and family gatherings, and as much as we love it, being the host and having to think about what to serve does take time and a lot of effort. All you have to do with this recipe is mix your roasted nuts with your spices and pop in the oven, giving you enough time to get dressed, ready to greet your guests. Alternatively, I like to make them weeks ahead at times and store them in an airtight container in my pantry. Then just like that, I have the perfect snack to take along to any gathering or put out when guests come around.

The perfect snack bowl

The Holiday Season

What do you love most about the holiday season? There are so many different things to love about December, the snow, the festive lights, the warm hot chocolate or the delicious snacks and gifts to go round.

During this time of year, I love to make a big batch of this Sweet and Savoury Spiced Nuts And Pretzels recipe to have readily available for friends and family who come over and also something for my husband, my son and myself to enjoy on our family nights. What I also love to do is package them as little gifts to give out. They make the perfect, most thoughtful gifts and I have received nothing but love for them.

Keep a look out for my Budget friendly, Make yourself Gift Guide coming to the blog this December, with so many easy and thoughtful ideas.

Ingredients

• Pretzels
• Maple Syrup
• Soya Sauce or Tamari Sauce
• Smoked Paprika
• Chilli Powder
• Salt
• Melted Butter
• Nuts (your preferred choice)
• Rosemary

Step by Step

Put only the nuts in a flat baking into the oven to roast for about 20 minutes on 175c fan. You can use any nuts of your choice, I used cashews, almonds and pecans.

Once roasted, bring the tray out the oven and add the melted butter, spices, maple syrup, soy sauce, rosemary and pretzels.

Mix them really well to combine all the spices, sauces and nuts together. Put the tray back into the oven to bake for another 10 – 15 minutes and there you have it!

Your very own Sweet and Savoury Spiced Nuts And Pretzels, serve and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you do make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you are all making.

And of course feel free to leave any questions, comments, or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you

Recipes You Must Try

• Simple Sheet Pan Spatchcock Chicken and Chips
• Simple Homemade Oxtail Soup
• Tahini Walnut Aubergine Dip with Crispy Butter Beans
• Festive Holiday Honey Nut Gift Jar
• Caramelised Cabbage and Leek Turkish Borek

The post Sweet and Savoury Spiced Nuts And Pretzels appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

It’s good food for everyone and such a quick recipe to put together!

How delicious is Butternut Squash?

My personal touch

Aesthetics are important when it comes to food and i feel quite accomplished because I have finally figured out how to make this Turkish and Iranian/Persian dessert look good. The only way was hasselback!

After peeling and cutting them open, I scooped up all the seeds and saved them to sow in spring and grow a field of butternut squash haha… Just kidding but a handful of them would be beautiful.

Finally I made liquid gold, with cinnamon, cardamom, butter, saffron, pinch of salt and of course maple syrup. I brushed this on 3 times, at 15 minute intervals until baked.

So back to food and aesthetics, what I really want to know is, would you try a recipe that you have seen on social media if it was not aesthetically pleasing?

What makes this recipe special?

This Saffron, Butter and Maple Syrup glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash recipe is actually a combination of my hometown Iran and Turkey, kind of a hybrid between the two.

I’ve incorporated the butter, which was taken from the Turkish version of this delicious dessert, but also kept it very Iranian with the use of saffron Check out how to make this unique dessert the Turkish and Iranian way below!

Although cardamom and cinnamon spices are the spices of the season in the UK and many other countries around the world, they are also big staple spices from the Middle East and I absolutely love them! Cinnamon usually takes over when used in a recipe and cancels out the colour of the saffron but it’s very interesting to see that in this recipe, the colour is not too faded and the aroma is 100% still there!

Scientifically, these two ingredients clash, but the aroma of both spices came through and filled me with such warmth.

Deliciously satisfying Butternut squash

Home Sweet Home

This recipe means so much to me as, not only do I love Autumn, but it’s also a combination of Iran and Turkey, two countries I love very much.

Butternut Squash is the ultimate dessert throughout these coming months and made in such unique tasty ways . In Iran, they make a tasty dessert called Kadu Shirin. An entire butternut squash is used, but they don’t peel the skin. It is kept just as it is, sliced and layered in a pot.

Of course in Iran, they love their desserts super sweet! The butternut squash is layered with generous tablespoons of sugar added in between every layer. For an entire butternut squash, one to two cups of water are used, and the pot is put on medium to low heat until the water boils, usually to a point where the water is almost fully dried up.. not completely gone so it burns the bottom, but enough so that the base completely caramelizes with the sugar.

For that added sweet taste, you can choose to add sugar on top, drizzle honey or sprinkle cinnamon powder and enjoy

Butternut Squash dessert in Turkey

In Turkey, the dessert is called Kabak Tatlisi and is made very much like in Iran, except, that the butternut squash is peeled fully, cut into 2cm slices and put on boil.

It is not boiled to a point that is is completely soft and mushy, only to a point where the butternut squash still holds together quite well. A frying pan is filled with butter where the butternut squash is fried with the butter, which OMG! tastes absolutely amazing!

You can top the dessert with a sprinkle of nuts, syrup, honey and cinnamon

Check out my healthy sweet treats for Autumn on my YouTube channel here.

A sliced dessert that looks delicious and tastes even better

What is the Hasselback way?

Hasselback is a cooking method where your butternut squash (or any vegetable really) is sliced, not all the way through, into thin and even layers. You can take advantage of the layers by stuffing them or topping them with any additional flavours you love, giving you much more space to get creative!

To start, cut your butternut squash in half, length ways and prep like you normally would by removing the seeds. What I like to do is put 2 skewer sticks either side of every half to not cut all the way down from top to bottom. When cutting, you want to try and cut even slices, about 3 – 5 mm apart for the entire squash remembering to not slice all the way through into your chopping board.

And voila, you have your hasselback butternut squash ready!

Ingredients

• Butternut squash
• Unsalted butter
• Maple syrup
• Ground cinnamon
• Ground Cardamom
• Ground Saffron

Step by Step

First, start by peeling your butternut squash and cutting into half length ways. Scoop out the seeds and put aside. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees.

Put 2 skewers on either side of each half and slice it down hasselback style. Melt your butter to prepare for the mixture.

Mix together the melted butter, cinnamon powder, cardamom powder and pinch of Saffron to make your mixture. Brush the mixture on top of the butternut squash and into the ridges as much as possible.

Put into your preheated oven for 15 minutes initially, then take it out and brush again with the same mixture. Put it back into the oven for another 15 minutes.

I did this 3 times in total, until the mixture was used up. It took about an hour in total but it depends on the size of your butternut squash, you’ll know when your squash is ready when it is a lightly golden golden colour, not brown.

Serve up and enjoy this surprisingly delicious healthy dessert!

What a way to satisfy your guests!

The Organic Way

I used an organic butternut squash in this Saffron, Butter and Maple Syrup glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash recipe to save the seeds for April, when it’s time to get busy with my gardening. When you cut your squash in half, length ways, scoop out the seeds and lay them out on a piece of parchment paper or grease proof paper to completely dry out.

Try not to touch them as much and do not wash or contaminate them with any chemicals or liquids. Once they’ve dried up, you can have a good feel of them and if you feel they are completely empty, it may be best to bin them as this is just the shell which is no good for us.

The seeds that do have something inside them, this is what we are keeping to plant when the time is right and watch them grow

Frequently Asked Questions

If you do make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you are all making.

And of course feel free to leave any questions, comments, or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you

Latest Recipes to Try

• Baked Loaded Fries
• Sweet Pepper and Dill Salmon with Buttery Dill Rice
• Cardamom Pumpkin Cake
• Turkish Pepper and Egg Shakshuka
• Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

The post Maple Syrup glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash with Saffron and Butter appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

It’s not only a healthy breakfast recipe but also a snack for after lunch or dinner, packed with whole grains, fiber and naturally sweetened for that added delicious taste!

A delicious treat for the eyes and the soul

Health Benefits all Round

Oats are one of the healthiest grains on this earth! Not only are they gluten-free, they are also the ideal source of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.

As much as I would love to find it, there is no magic ingredient to help with weight loss! But, oats can support a healthy weight loss diet by providing all the necessary vitamins and minerals whilst limiting your hunger. The fiber in oats help keep you satisfied and full between meals.

Baked oatmeal is an easy and quick dish, perfect for breakfast. It is rich in fiber, which promotes fullness for the most part of your day, making it much easier to plan around your day, especially for full time working mums.

It’s also a source of Vitamins B and E, and minerals such as magnesium.

Easy Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Have you tried my Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese? Or maybe my Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls as a dessert? These two recipes have my Homemade Pumpkin Puree in common and it is so quick and easy to make, in just a few simple steps.

Cut the butternut squash in half and clean it from seeds. We can skip the hard step of cleaning the seeds by actually baking the squash! What you’ll need to do is turn you squash face down onto the tray and bake it for 45 minutes on 220º, or until you feel your pumpkin is fork-tender. The pumpkin should be a nice and light golden brown colour when done. With a large metal spoon or an ice cream scoop, you can easily scrape out the seeds. Scoop out the flesh and enjoy!

Actually, the same process can be used for the round pumpkins. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container.

A quick, easy and healthy recipe, all in one!

Is this oatmeal bake the way to go?

You may feel the same since the pure fact that your reading this is because you’re into food content. But for those who are less into cooking and more into eating it, do you find that making your breakfast can be a whole lot of effort that you don’t have time for?

On early work days and during the darker months of the year, that’s a big yes for me!

It was exactly that thought that brought about this hearty Blueberry Pumpkin Baked Breakfast Oatmeal. While it took less than 10 minutes to put together and 30 minutes to bake, it ended becoming a rather fulfilling breakfast for almost the entire week. Though, I may also add that it makes a decadent dessert too

While enjoying this through the week and facing a much more manageable workload in the kitchen end, it was in that moment that I reminded myself, it’s always about working smarter not harder!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Ingredients

• Oats
• Oat milk
• Pumpkin puree
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Salt
• Maple Syrup
• Blueberries
• Flaxseed
• Baking powder

Step by Step

This recipe is so easy to make in just a few easy steps

Start, by mixing your dry ingredients in the dish you will bake in. Your dry ingredients are the oats, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, ground flaxseed, and baking powder.

Mix your wet ingredients, oat milk an maple syrup, and add to the mixture.

Add your prepared pumpkin puree to your mixture and mix well.

Mix all the ingredients well and add your blueberries as the final ingredient.

Once all ingredients are mixed in well, put your dish in the over at 170 degrees for about 20-30 mins and you’re good to go.

Top Tips on making your Blueberry Pumpkin Baked Breakfast Oatmeal With Simple Icing

I know i’ve said this many times, but I can’t stress enough how easy it is to make this Healthy Blueberry Pumpkin Baked Breakfast Oatmeal With Simple Icing! It’s a delicious breakfast or snack bar to make ahead of time, and here are a few tips to make life even easier!

Make your oatmeal during the weekend and refrigerate for up to 5 days to last you the entire week. You can choose to use quick oats, which actually cook much faster, but because of their texture, they soak up more moisture and can dry out the baked oatmeal.

A top tip is not to combine the wet ingredients with your dry ingredients until you’re ready to bake. And simply, double the quantity to make a bigger batch ready for more guests!

If you do make this recipe, please tag me on Pinterest or Instagram so I can see! It’s my favorite thing to scroll through stories and see what you are all making.

And of course feel free to leave any questions, comments, or reviews! This is the best place to reach me, and I’d love to hear from you

Ready to try other pumpkin recipes this Autumn?

• Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
• Homemade Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

Or delicious snack recipes?

• Caramelized Fruit and Cheese Dip
• Classic Tiramisu Recipe
• Homemade Gluten-Free Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars
• Date Baklava Cheesecake

The post Blueberry Pumpkin Baked Breakfast Oatmeal With Simple Icing appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.

Not only are they healthy, but they’re also very easy to make! Sounds like the best choice for your next tea party, doesn’t it? I guarantee that your tray will be wiped out within a few minutes!

Gluten-Free Peanut Butter Bars

Middle Easterners are known to have a sweet tooth. We are fond of our sweet treats and it’s no secret that we have some of the most delicious recipes in the world.

In my household, the Iranian, Turkish, and Arab cultures have always played a big role in my kitchen. I like a mix of all three and aim to come up with alternatives to keep our sweet treats enough to satisfy the sugar cravings but healthy enough for a guilt free dessert!

What a Delicious Indulgent Bar!

Why are these Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars Always a Good Idea?

Don’t get me wrong, recipes like Middle Eastern Baklava or cheesecake are great, however, they can be somewhat time-consuming and as a busy mom, we don’t get many free hours in our day!

To save time, what I like to do instead, is to create easier alternatives like Healthy 3 Ingredient No Bake Pistachio Baklava and 4 Ingredient Tahini Pistachio Date Bars. By doing so, these treats are made readily available to my family and me. Not only do they save me time, but they are also easy to make. Try them once and they will become your go-to recipes for sweets and dessert!

“How does it save money?” you may ask. Well, have you ever tried going to the supermarket when you’re hungry? What you’ll find is that we tend to gravitate towards high-carb foods, snacks, and sugary desserts.

Shopping hungry means buying more than what you need, paying more than what we had planned to, and adding much more sugar than necessary. I’m sure we can all relate that looking out for nutritional content tends to go out the window.

Making these snack bars at home avoids the temporary cravings at the supermarket. And more importantly, we are in control of what goes into making them. Not only are they aesthetically pleasing, but they are incredibly healthy as well if consumed in moderation. A great source of nutrients – protein and fat!

These Bars Are Out of this World!

Recipe Variations

This homemade Reese’s peanut butter bars recipe is very versatile so you can play around with the ingredients however you like!

To make your homemade Reese’s peanut butter bars dairy-free, you can easily replace ghee with coconut oil and use dairy-free chocolate.

To make it gluten-free, substitute your traditional flour with any gluten-free flour like almond flour or oat flour.

If you are not a fan of maple syrup, you should not worry. You can use honey instead!

Pro Tips to Perfect your Peanut Butter Bars

For a smooth cut, dip your knife in hot water wipe it dry, and cut. This will help cut through the chocolate easily avoiding any cracks.

It is recommended that you use dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate or even white chocolate. Maybe go for a tasty dark chocolate, preferably organic, with a higher percentage of cacao; 75%, 85%, and over.

To take your homemade Reese’s peanut butter bars to the next level, you can sprinkle some crushed nuts on top. Since this is a peanut butter recipe, you can do crushed peanuts. Other perfect options are pecans, almonds or walnuts.

Make the Easiest Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars By following these steps!

Start by adding ghee to your almond flour.

Add maple syrup for that sweet taste!

Mix them all together until you achieve this consistency.

Press your mixture into a dish on a baking sheet.

To make the creamy filling, melt peanut butter with ghee.

Pour your beautiful mixture on top of the baked layer and freeze it for 20 minutes.

Melt chocolate of your choice with chocolate chips and ghee.

Pour melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer.

Sprinkle with any chopped nuts. Freeze for 10 minutes, cut up, and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Question

Gluten-free Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars

You must try this 3-layer, homemade Reese’s peanut butter bars recipe!

Click here Peanut bars to watch my Instagram video!

Ingredients

For the bottom layer

• Almond flour
• Maple syrup
• Ghee
• Vanilla extract
• Peanut butter

For the peanut butter layer

• Peanut butter
• Ghee

Now for the chocolate layer

• Sugar-free chocolate or any chocolate of choice
• Chocolate chips of choice
• Ghee

Steps To Prep

First, start by adding maple syrup, ghee, and vanilla extract to your almond flour. Bake for 10 minutes on 200°c until golden.

For the filling, you are going to melt peanut butter with ghee. Then, pour it on top of the dough and freeze for 20 minutes.

Finally, melt sugar-free or any chocolate of choice with chocolate chips and ghee. Pour your melted chocolate on top of the baked layer.

For toppings, sprinkle with any crushed nuts. You can use almonds, peanuts, pecans, or walnuts. Freeze it again.

Cut up, serve, and bon appetit!

Some Other Sweets Recipes You Must Try

• Healthy 3 Ingredient No Bake Pistachio Baklava
• 4 Ingredient Tahini Pistachio Date Bars
• Date Baklava Cheesecake
• Classic Turkish Walnut Baklava
• Chocolate Orange Cardamom Pudding
• Persian Rice Pudding With Rose Water and Cardamom
• Honeycomb Bread – Khaliat al Nahl

The post Homemade Reese’s Peanut Butter Bars appeared first on PEANUTSWIRLS.