(re-post)
When I visit my father in Ontario, a trip to a shop that roasts and sells nuts is on the agenda because this is the kind of gift a ninety-year-old likes to receive. He may look at flowers and display them nicely – but I know he prefers roasted cashews and pecans.
I love the smell of such a store and the taste of quality nuts freshly roasted is very worthwhile.
For some reason such a store does not exist in Victoria so when I come home I have to do it myself. A bit of olive oil in a cast iron fry pan, a handful of raw, blanched peanuts, careful cooking (these were on the verge of scorching), a sprinkle of salt – dah dah! It is hard not to start eating before they are cooled enough.