If you’re a fan of healthy snacks, then you’ve probably heard of sunflower seeds. But have you ever tasted spicy roasted sunflower seeds? They are a perfect and easy-to-make snack that’s ideal for any occasion or event. If you’re planning on hosting a BBQ party, going on a road trip, or just looking for something to munch on while watching your favorite movie, these seeds will satisfy your cravings and keep you satisfied for hours.
Roasting sunflower seeds is an age-old practice that has been around for centuries. According to Jstor.org, the Native Americans were the first people known to have used sunflower seeds for food. They roasted the seeds and ground them into a paste, which they used as a source of oil to make bread, cakes, and other foods. Today, roasted sunflower seeds are enjoyed all over the world.
What makes this recipe special is the spicy kick that elevates the taste and makes it an irresistible snack. You can customize the level of spiciness according to your taste preference. Besides, the recipe is straightforward to follow, and the ingredients are readily available. I will be providing you with a step-by-step guide on how to make spicy roasted sunflower seeds at home.
Spicy Roasted Sunflower Seeds Recipe
Spicy roasted sunflower seeds are a flavorful and nutritious snack that can be enjoyed on their own or used as a topping for salads, soups, or other dishes. Are you ready to make your own batch of spicy roasted sunflower seeds? Continue reading!
What Ingredients Do I Need?
To create this yummy snack, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The star of the show, of course, is 2 cups of raw sunflower seeds. Make sure they are shelled and unsalted. Alongside that, you’ll require the following:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For coating the sunflower seeds.
- 1 tablespoon chili powder: Adds heat and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a smoky and slightly sweet taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds additional heat (adjust according to your spice tolerance).
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Adjust according to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spiciness.
What Equipment Do I Need?
Here are the following equipment you will need to prepare spicy roasted sunflower seeds:
- Baking sheet: For roasting the sunflower seeds.
- Mixing bowl: To toss the sunflower seeds with the seasoning.
- Silicone spatula or spoon: For stirring and spreading the seeds on the baking sheet.
- Parchment paper or silicone mat: To line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
Step-by-Step Guide to Prepare Spicy Roasted Sunflower Seeds
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This temperature ensures that the sunflower seeds roast evenly without burning.
Step 2: Prepare the Sunflower Seeds
- In a mixing bowl, combine the raw sunflower seeds, olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss the sunflower seeds well to evenly coat them with the spices and oil.
Step 3: Roast the Sunflower Seeds
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Spread the seasoned sunflower seeds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the sunflower seeds for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and become crispy.
- Stir the sunflower seeds halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
Step 4: Cool and Store
- Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the sunflower seeds cool completely.
- Transfer the cooled spicy roasted sunflower seeds to an airtight container or resealable bag.
- Store them at room temperature for up to 2 weeks, or in the refrigerator for longer shelf life.
Tips and Tricks To Know
Preparing spicy roasted sunflower seeds is a breeze, right? Now, let me share a handful of tips and tricks that will elevate your snack game to new heights:
- Make sure to use raw, shelled, and unsalted sunflower seeds for this recipe. This allows the spices to adhere to the seeds and infuse them with flavor.
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less cayenne pepper, depending on your preference.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices and seasonings to create your own custom flavor profile. Some options include smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, or a sprinkle of your favorite hot sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ideas to help you present your spicy roasted sunflower seeds in a delightful way:
- Enjoy the spicy roasted sunflower seeds as a snack on their own.
- Sprinkle them over salads or soups for added crunch and flavor.
- Use them as a topping for roasted vegetables or grain bowls.
- Pack them in lunchboxes or take them on-the-go for a healthy and satisfying snack.
Storage and Shelf Life:
- Once the spicy roasted sunflower seeds have cooled completely, transfer them to an airtight container or a resealable bag.
- Store them at room temperature in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
- The spicy roasted sunflower seeds can be stored for up to 2 weeks, maintaining their freshness and flavor.
Additional Variations:
- Sweet and Spicy: For a sweet and spicy twist, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning mixture before tossing it with the sunflower seeds. The combination of sweet and heat adds a delightful flavor profile.
- Smoky Flavor: If you enjoy smoky flavors, you can substitute some or all of the paprika with smoked paprika. It will infuse the sunflower seeds with a smoky aroma and taste.
- Herb-infused: Experiment with adding dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mixture. These herbs can complement the spiciness and add an additional layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use roasted sunflower seeds instead of raw?
No, use raw seeds for better flavor & crunch.
Can I use a different type of oil?
Sure, swap olive oil with avocado or coconut oil for high heat
How can I make the spicy roasted sunflower seeds less spicy?
To adjust heat level, reduce cayenne or omit it. You can also adjust chili powder to control spiciness.
Can I use this recipe for other types of nuts or seeds?
You can apply same method to other nuts/seeds. However, you need to adjust roasting time accordingly.
How can I add a tangy flavor to the spicy roasted sunflower seeds?
If you prefer a tangy flavor, you can add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of citrus zest to the seasoned sunflower seeds before roasting them.
Are You Still Thinking About It?
What are you waiting for? Give this delectable Spicy Roasted Sunflower Seeds recipe a whirl and let your taste buds dance with joy! We’d love to hear your feedback, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts in the comment section below.
And if you’re someone who adores scrumptious snacks, you’re in for a treat! Check out these mouthwatering recipes too:
Spicy Roasted Sunflower Seeds
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone spatula or spoon
- Parchment paper or silicone mat
Ingredients
- 2 cups raw sunflower seeds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine sunflower seeds, olive oil, chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Toss to coat sunflower seeds evenly with spices and oil.
- Spread sunflower seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until sunflower seeds are golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
- For a sweet and spicy twist, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the seasoning mixture before tossing with the sunflower seeds.
- If you enjoy smoky flavors, you can substitute some or all of the paprika with smoked paprika.
- Experiment with adding dried herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano to the seasoning mixture.
