This recipe appears in “Appetizers”, but here you have it, just in time for outdoor fun. Just in time to take on that hike or bicycle trip, or to munch while contemplating nature and sitting under the old apple tree. Great gift for dad in an old peanut butter jar with a ribbon around its neck.

Don’t worry about the fat in nuts because nuts contain good fat, essential fatty acids needed to help prevent heart attacks, lower cholesterol, and more! Studies show that people who include nuts in their diet have fewer problems with obesity because essential fatty acids stimulate the body’s burning of saturated fats. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc for wound-healing and men’s health, and an old-time remedy for killing intestinal worms. Oh what an appetizing thought!

Makes about 5 cups Bake at 300 degrees

2 tablespoons tamari soy sauce	¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
4 teaspoons chili powder	5 cups mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, peanuts, and so on
2 teaspoons cumin powder
2 teaspoons curry powder
2 teaspoons garlic powder

Preheat oven to 300 degrees.

In a large bowl, toss nuts with tamari. Combine spices and sprinkle over nuts. Mix well. I like a rubber spatula. Transfer nuts to baking sheets (two will suffice).

Bake until nuts are golden and almost dry, about 15 minutes. Shake pan once or twice to stir nuts. Cool. Spoon nut mix into jars and store air-tight in the refrigerator or freezer.

Feel free to leave out any spice you don’t like. Feel free to toss your nut mixture with maple syrup (about ½ cup) and a sprinkle of cinnamon, if you prefer a sweet taste.