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Chestnut-Cashew Spread – A Creamy Delight
In the cold season, chestnuts and cashews make an unbeatable combination for a hearty, creamy spread that’s perfect on bread, as a dip, or as an appetizer. Chestnuts have a mild, slightly sweet flavor that is beautifully complemented by the creamy cashews. This winter chestnut-cashew spread is vegan, packed with nutrients, and brings a touch of winter coziness to the table.
Why Chestnuts and Cashews in Winter?
Chestnuts are not only delicious in winter but also healthy. They provide many valuable vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins and potassium, and offer a slightly sweet aroma that fits perfectly with the winter season. Cashews provide healthy fats and make the spread particularly creamy. Together, they create a perfect base for a warm, nutty flavor—ideal for the cold months!
Ingredients
- grams chestnuts pre-cooked or vacuum-packed (pre-cooked or vacuum-packed)
- cashews soaked in water for at least 2 hours and drained cashews (soaked in water for at least 2 hours and drained)
- finely chopped small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 garlic clove (chopped)
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup (optional for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon thyme (fresh or dried)
- 1 pinch cinnamon (for a wintery touch)
- 50 ml plant-based milk or water (depending on desired creaminess)
- Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a pan and sauté the chopped onion and garlic over medium heat until they are translucent and fragrant. Let them cool slightly afterward.
- Place the soaked and drained cashews along with the chestnuts in a high-powered blender or food processor. Both ingredients provide the creamy consistency of the spread and harmonize perfectly in flavor.
- Add the sautéed onion and garlic, maple syrup, thyme, salt, pepper, and a pinch of cinnamon. The cinnamon adds a wintery note to the spread and gives it a special spice.
- Pour in about 50 ml of water or plant-based milk to achieve a creamy texture. Blend everything until a smooth, spreadable mixture is formed. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more liquid until the desired consistency is reached.
- Taste the spread and adjust the spices as desired. The chestnut-cashew spread can be served warm or cold and pairs perfectly with crispy bread or crackers.
- Transfer the spread to a nice bowl and garnish with fresh thyme or some chopped cashews for a special touch. This winter spread can be easily prepared in advance and keeps in the fridge for about 3–4 days.
Notes
Preparation Tips:
- Soaking Cashews: For an extra creamy texture, soak the cashews overnight if possible. This softens them and makes blending easier.
- Spice Variations: For more flavor, you can add some rosemary or a pinch of nutmeg. These winter spices perfectly complement the nutty flavors.
- Alternative to Chestnuts: If chestnuts are unavailable, they can be replaced with cooked sweet potatoes, which also have a sweet, creamy consistency.
Conclusion
This winter chestnut-cashew spread is a special alternative to classic spreads and is perfect for cold days. The combination of chestnuts, cashews, and winter spices gives it an unparalleled aroma and a wonderfully creamy texture. Whether as a spread, a dip for vegetables, or as an accompaniment on an appetizer platter.
Enjoy your meal and share your creations with me by tagging @vegan_franzi on social media or using the hashtag #gonut.
