Recipe: Happy-Hour Bar Nuts (using garlic and brown sugar)

HAPPY-HOUR BAR NUTS

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 medium garlic cloves, minced (4 1/2 firmly packed teaspoons)
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons firmly packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon finely minced fresh rosemary (optional)
2 teaspoons garlic salt, plus more for sprinkling
2 cups walnut halves (7 1/2 ounces)
2 cups pecan halves (7 1/2 ounces)

In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and saute for 1 minute.

Add the brown sugar, water, rosemary and garlic salt and saute; stir constantly until the sugar is no longer dry and the mixture is shiny and wet. Add the nuts and toss to coat.

Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or parchment paper and spread the nuts in a single layer.

Bake in a preheated 350 degree F oven for 6-8 minutes. Remove and toss the nuts on the baking sheet to coat again. Return to the oven and bake just until lightly browned (watch closely). Remove and immediately sprinkle the nuts with garlic salt. Toss again, scooping up any coating left on the foil. Slide the foil onto a wire rack and allow the nuts to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.

Adapted from source: Everything Tastes Better With Garlic by Sarah Perry