All Recipes
Chef Priya
Priya's Kitchen Notes

Easy recipes, bold spices, and stories from my family kitchen.

Starter Guide To Indian Flavor

Ghee-Roasted Cashews with Curry Leaves

Ghee Kaaju

(45 reviews)
"

These ghee-roasted cashews are a staple during festive seasons in my home—a beloved treat that disappears almost as soon as it's made!

"
Ghee-Roasted Cashews with Curry Leaves
Prep time:5 mins
Cook time:15 mins
Total time:20 mins

Protein

5g

Carbs

12g

Fat

20g

Calories

230 kcal

Servings:
6
VegetarianGluten Free

Ingredients

cashew nuts2 cups
(raw, whole)
ghee3 tbsp
curry leaves1 sprig
(fresh)
saltto taste

Spices

black pepper0.50 tsp
red chili powder0.25 tsp
(optional, for extra heat)

Directions

Prepare to Roast

  1. In a heavy-bottomed skillet, melt ghee over medium heat until it's shimmering.
  2. Add the curry leaves and let them sizzle for about 30 seconds until they become crisp.
Chef's tip: Be cautious as the curry leaves may splutter when added to hot ghee.

Roast the Cashews

  1. Add the cashew nuts to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly in ghee.
  2. Continue to roast the cashews on medium heat, stirring frequently, for about 10–12 minutes or until they turn a beautiful golden brown.

Season and Serve

  1. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and red chili powder over the roasted cashews.
  2. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating of the spices.
  3. Remove from heat and let them cool slightly before serving.
Chef's tip: These cashews can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, maintaining their crunch.

How did you like this recipe?

Click to rate

Collection of Indian Spice Blends

My Go-To Spice Blends

These are the five homemade spice blends I reach for again and again. Check out my free list of cherished family recipes that will bring bold, authentic flavor to your cooking.

More Indian Flavor

Crispy Lentil Fritters

Crispy Lentil Fritters

Masoor Dal Pakora

Delightfully crispy on the outside and tender within, these lentil fritters flavored with aromatic spices are perfect as a tea-time snack or festive appetizer.

35 mins
SnackSouth Indian
Crispy Onion Pakoras (Fritters)

Crispy Onion Pakoras (Fritters)

Kanda Bhaji

Crisp golden onion fritters spiced with green chili and carom seeds, perfect with masala chai on a rainy day.

30 mins
SnackNorth Indian
Paneer Tikka (Oven Roasted)

Paneer Tikka (Oven Roasted)

Paneer Tikka

Chunks of marinated paneer roasted until smoky and served with mint chutney.

35 mins
SnackNorth Indian

Behind the Recipe

Chef Priya in her kitchen

Hi! I'm Priya. I grew up in Delhi in a tiny kitchen filled with noise, spices, and stories. I learned to cook the way most of us do—by watching, tasting, and eventually doing. My mother never measured anything, but somehow every dish was perfect.

After I moved to the U.S., I found myself cooking the same dishes to feel close to home. Friends would ask for recipes, and I realized how unfamiliar Indian cooking still felt to many people here. That's what led me to start sharing—not just the food, but the how and why behind each step.

These recipes are rooted in tradition but shaped by life abroad. I try to keep things practical without losing what makes them special. If you've ever wanted to bring more Indian flavor into your kitchen, I hope this is a good place to start.