Toasting Nuts

As with dry spices, toasting nuts before use activates their flavor (and adds crunch). Oven toasting yields a more even toast but takes a bit longer. Heat the oven to 350°F to 425°F (180°C to 220°C), spread the nuts evenly across a baking sheet, and bake until lightly browned and fragrant, about 7 to 10 minutes. Pan toasting is faster but less even. Heat a dry pan over medium heat, add the nuts, and toast until browned, 2 to 3 minutes, then flip and continue toasting for another 2 to 3 minutes.