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Crispy Citrus-Candied Pistachios Recipe

Stella Parks
Published: Last Updated:
Crispy Citrus-Candied Pistachios Recipe

[Photographs: Vicky Wasik]

This recipe takes advantage of Fresh Lemon Syrup, which doesn't contain any added water or juice, helping the pistachios toast up extra crisp and crunchy. The syrup's subtle acidity brightens the darker notes of the roasted nuts and caramelized sugar, keeping the overall flavor fresh and light, perfect for sprinkling over spring salads and fruity desserts, or just snacking out of hand.

Why It Works

  • Fresh Lemon Syrup is almost pure sugar, giving the pistachios a super-crisp candy shell.
  • A light coat of organic powdered sugar prevents the sticky roasted pistachios from clumping as they cool.
  • Organic powdered sugar has a subtle toffee flavor that's not too sweet.

Read more: Stop Throwing Lemon Rinds Away! Make This No-Cook Syrup Instead

  • Yield:Makes about 1 cup (5 ounces)
  • Active time: 5 minutes
  • Total time:20 minutes
  • Rated: 5

Ingredients

  • 5 ounces (1 cup; 140g) shelled pistachios (see note)
  • 1 1/4 ounces (2 tablespoons; 35g) Fresh Lemon Syrup
  • 1 ounce (1/4 cup; 25g) powdered sugar, preferably organic
  • 1/8 ounce (1 tablespoon; 4g) freshly grated lemon zest (optional)

Directions

  1. 1.

    Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and preheat to 350°F. Combine pistachios and lemon syrup in a small bowl, stirring to coat. Spoon onto a rimmed aluminum baking sheet lined with parchment (not waxed paper or aluminum foil). Toast pistachios until deep amber in color, 12 to 15 minutes; the acidic syrup browns dramatically, which makes the pistachios difficult to judge by eye, but don't mistake this for burning.

  2. 2.

    Sift powdered sugar into a medium bowl and whisk with lemon zest, if using. Add hot pistachios and toss to coat. Set aside until cool and crisp, about 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months at room temperature.

This Recipe Appears In
Stop Throwing Lemon Rinds Away! Make This No-Cook Syrup Instead

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