Description
Crispy, well-seasoned chili lime pepitas with a crunchy texture and vibrant flavor profile.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup (140g) raw pepitas (hulled pumpkin seeds, plump and clean)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) maple syrup
- 1 tbsp (15ml) fresh lime juice (freshly squeezed preferred for best flavor)
- 2 tsp (6g) Tajin (chili-lime seasoning blend)
- ¼ tsp (1.5g) fine sea salt
- ⅛ tsp (0.5g) cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This temperature ensures even roasting for a crunchy texture while preventing burning.
- Step 2: Line a rimmed baking sheet with unbleached parchment paper. This setup makes cleanup easier and stops the pepitas from sticking.
- Step 3: In a small mixing bowl, combine the raw pepitas, maple syrup, fresh lime juice, Tajin, sea salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly to coat every seed evenly.
- Step 4: Transfer the coated pepitas onto the parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread them into a single, even layer to promote uniform roasting.
- Step 5: Roast the pepitas in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Stir halfway through the cooking time to prevent burning and ensure even browning.
- Step 6: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the pepitas to cool on the pan for approximately 10 minutes. Cooling on the pan enhances crispiness.
Notes
- Store cooled pepitas in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep away from moisture to maintain crispness.
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 10 days to slow oil rancidity and preserve flavor.
- Wrap in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before eating.
- Stir halfway through roasting to avoid burning and promote even cooking.
- If pepitas are not crispy, allow full 10 minutes cooling on the pan.
- If seasoning does not stick well, add an extra teaspoon (5ml) of maple syrup to improve adherence.
- For uneven browning, spread pepitas again in a single layer about 5 minutes into roasting.
- Fresh lime juice provides the best flavor. If using bottled lime juice, increase quantity to 1.5 tbsp (22.5ml) for a stronger taste.
- Serve with crispy tortilla chips or gluten-free crackers.
- Pair with fresh guacamole or salsa to add extra flavor and texture.
- Add as a crunchy topping on salads and grain bowls.
- Use as a garnish on tacos or soups.
- Drizzle with additional fresh lime juice for brightness or hot sauce for extra spice.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 cup
- Calories: Not specified in source content
- Sugar: Not specified in source content
- Sodium: Not specified in source content
- Fat: Not specified in source content
- Saturated Fat: Not specified in source content
- Unsaturated Fat: Not specified in source content
- Trans Fat: Not specified in source content
- Carbohydrates: Not specified in source content
- Fiber: Not specified in source content
- Protein: Not specified in source content
- Cholesterol: Not specified in source content