CARAMELISED NUTS

MAKES ABOUT 200 G (7 OZ)

No real need to introduce this with random words of suspect philosophical motivation. It’s really quite obvious: caramelised nuts just taste better.

150 g (5½ oz) caster (superfine) sugar

200 g (7 oz) nuts of your choice (choose one, or all!)

sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)

Place the sugar and 150 ml (5 fl oz) of water in a medium saucepan and bring to the boil. Add the nuts and let steep while you warm the oven up to a balmy 160ºC (315ºC/Gas 2–3).

Line a baking tray with baking paper. Drain the nuts and place on the baking tray. Sprinkle with a little salt if it’s your thing, then bake for about 10 minutes.

Remove from the oven and leave to cool before using. The nuts will keep in an airtight container for several months.