It has been used to soothe and moisturize skin and hair for generations; however, it is also a dietary staple and has been pervasive in the culinary realm.
Shea butter is high in antioxidants, healthy fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory properties and can be used as a substitute to cooking oil or raw in smoothies.
One of our favorite recipes using shea butter is from Chic African Culture:
Shea Butter Coconut Curry Mixed Nuts
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of organic, unrefined shea butter
- 2 cups of halved walnuts
- 1 cup of whole almonds
- 1/2 cup sweet coconut flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon chili powder
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1 teaspoon dried curry powder
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1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
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1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F. Add shea butter to a 13- x 9- x 2-inch baking pan; set the pan in the oven to melt the butter
- Once melted, remove the pan from the oven and add nuts and Worcestershire sauce
- Gently stir until well mixed
- Bake the nut mixture until it is toasted (about 30 minutes), stirring occasionally
- Mix all spices and coconut in a small bowl
- Remove the nuts from the oven and sprinkle the mixture evenly with spices and toss until well mixed
- Transfer the warm nuts to a bowl and serve immediately, or let cool and store them at room temperature in an airtight container until ready to serve