Irresistibly Spicy and Crunchy Chex Mix Recipe
This zesty, salty-sweet, and crunchy Chex mix is sure to have you reaching for more!
Updated: November 30, 2024
Why This Recipe Stands Out
Toasting the cereal and peanuts enhances their deep, nutty flavors. Additionally, toasting whole spices before grinding them releases their aromatic qualities. The combination of Sichuan peppercorns and chili crisp introduces a delightful málà flavor that elevates this snack mix.
As a food writer and editor, I often joke with my husband about my diet consisting mainly of caffeine, sugar, and various snacks. He’s not entirely wrong! I frequently skip lunch in favor of snacking throughout the day. By the time afternoon hits and I realize I’ve missed lunch, I’ve usually filled up on crackers or dried fruit—or if I’m lucky—a batch of my homemade crunchy Chex mix.
The Versatility of Chex Mix
One of the best aspects of Chex mix is its simplicity and adaptability. You only need a few boxes of cereal along with some nuts or pretzels—and any seasonings you fancy! Whether you prefer chaat masala for an exotic twist or Caesar dust for something tangy-savory, there are endless possibilities. My personal favorite seasoning? A flavorful málà spice blend.
Málà translates to “numbing” and “spicy” in Mandarin; it describes both a taste sensation as well as the tingling feeling left behind after enjoying dishes spiced with chiles and Sichuan peppercorns. This signature flavor shines in many dishes like mapo tofu or Sichuan-style wontons—and it works wonders in snacks like potato chips or popcorn too!
Six Essential Tips for Crafting Málà Snack Mix
Here’s how to create this spicy yet savory treat that fits perfectly at cocktail parties as well as casual movie nights:
- Choose Your Cereals Wisely: For maximum crunchiness, use three types of Chex—corn, rice, and wheat—alongside peanuts and pretzels. Feel free to customize your mix by swapping out nuts or using potato chips instead! If you’re aiming for gluten-free options, simply omit Wheat Chex but ensure your chili crisp is also gluten-free.
2. Toast Your Ingredients: Toasting brings out the natural sweetness in cereals while enhancing earthy flavors in peanuts—making your snack even tastier! Spread them evenly on parchment-lined baking sheets at 325°F (160°C) until golden brown (about 20 minutes), stirring occasionally.
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Toast & Grind Whole Spices: For an aromatic spice blend that packs a punch, toast Sichuan peppercorns along with cumin seeds, fennel seeds, star anise seeds & cardamom over medium heat until fragrant (30 seconds - 1 minute). Grind these toasted spices into a fine powder afterward.
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Bloom Spices in Fat: Melt butter in the same skillet used for spices over medium heat; whisk together until fragrant (around 3 minutes). Blooming spices helps release fat-soluble flavor compounds which enhance aroma while ensuring even distribution throughout your snack mix.
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Double Down on Málà Flavor: After blooming spices remove from heat then fold in chili crisp—a savory Chinese condiment made from oil infused with chiles plus fried garlic/shallots/peanuts—for added depth! If you prefer milder flavors reduce Sichuan peppercorns accordingly while substituting extra butter instead.
6. Toss Thoroughly: To ensure every piece gets coated evenly toss everything together using two spatulas or wooden spoons—be sure to scoop from bottom up so all ingredients combine nicely!
Punchy Homemade Málà Chex Mix Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Corn Chex
- 4 cups Rice Chex
- 4 cups Wheat Chex
- 1½ cups roasted unsalted peanuts
- 4 tablespoons Sichuan peppercorns - 1½ tablespoons cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon fennel seeds
- Seeds from two cardamom pods - Two star anise pods
- 1½ tablespoons dark brown sugar
- Salt (to taste)
- Eight tablespoons unsalted butter -¼ cup chili crisp (like Lao Gan Ma) -2 cups pretzels
Instructions:
1) Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C) and line two rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper.
2) In large bowl combine Corn/Rice/Wheat chexs & roasted peanuts then divide mixture between prepared sheets; toast until golden brown (~20 mins), stirring occasionally.
3) In small skillet toast whole spices over medium heat till fragrant (~30 sec); grind into fine powder.
4) Melt butter within same skillet then whisk ground spice mixture into melted fat cooking till aromatic (~3 mins); remove from heat & fold-in chili crisp.
5) Pour seasoned mixture over toasted cereals/nuts tossing thoroughly using spatulas ensuring even coating; adjust seasoning if needed!
6) Store cooled chex-mix airtight at room temp up-to five days!
Enjoy this deliciously addictive snack during gatherings—or keep it all for yourself!
Nutritional Information per Serving:
Calories: 272 | Total Fat: 17g | Carbs:28g | Protein:6g
(Nutritional values are estimates based on ingredient database.)
Indulge guilt-free knowing you’ve created something truly special that’s perfect anytime snacking calls!