SWEET AND SPICY MIXED NUTS

As diabetics we know nuts are good for us and sometimes we want something more than just 'plain nuts'! Here is a recipe to make some sweet and spicy nuts to enjoy or even to give as gifts.

3 large egg whites
2 tbsp water
3 cups walnut halves
2 cups pecan halves
1 cup whole unblanched almonds
2 cups Splenda granulated
2 tbsp ground cinnamon
2 tsp ground ginger
2 tsp grated orange peel
1 tsp salt, optional
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tsp ground allspice
1/2 tsp ground cloves

Beat the egg whites and water in a mixing bowl until frothy. Add all the nuts and gently stir to coat.

Combine the Splenda, spices, salt (if using) and orange peel, stirring to mix together well. Add mixture to the nuts and stir gently to coat.

Spread mixture onto the two prepared pans and bake, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes until lightly browned at 300 degrees. Stir after 10 minutes of baking.

Allow nuts to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.

Yield: 8 cups

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